General Health in Recovery
What is the body’s primary organ for filtering toxins, including substances?
The liver.
What neurotransmitter is most associated with reward and pleasure in addiction?
Dopamine.
True or false: Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening.
True.
What grounding technique focuses on naming 5 things you can see, 4 you can touch, etc.?
The 5-4-3-2-1 technique.
How many ounces of water are typically recommended per day for basic hydration?
About 64 ounces (varies by person).
What happens to heart rate and blood pressure when someone withdraws from stimulants like cocaine or meth?
They typically decrease.
What part of the brain is responsible for judgment and impulse control, often impaired in early recovery?
The prefrontal cortex.
What common opioid withdrawal symptom causes “gooseflesh,” giving rise to the phrase “cold turkey”?
Chills/goosebumps.
What mental health condition commonly co-occurs with addiction and involves intrusive memories?
PTSD.
Which physical activity reduces stress, improves mood, and supports dopamine regulation?
Exercise.
Long-term substance use can disrupt which major body system responsible for hormones and stress response?
The endocrine system.
What is the brain condition caused by alcohol deficiency in thiamine that can lead to memory loss?
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
What withdrawal phase can last months and includes anxiety, low mood, and sleep problems?
PAWS – Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome.
What term describes negative internal messages like “I’m a failure” that affect recovery?
Cognitive distortions.
What is the name for the body's natural “feel-good” chemicals boosted by movement, laughter, and connection?
Endorphins.
Which vitamin deficiency is common in alcohol use disorder and linked to memory issues?
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine).
Cravings often activate what part of the brain responsible for emotional memory?
The amygdala.
Which substance has withdrawal symptoms that typically include vivid dreams and increased appetite?
Cannabis
Sleep disturbances in recovery are often caused by dysregulation of what internal process?
Circadian rhythm.
Which nutrient-rich food group helps stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings?
Complex carbohydrates.
Chronic opioid misuse slows down what major digestive process, causing constipation?
Gastrointestinal motility.
Recovery can restore damaged neural pathways through what process?
Neuroplasticity.
Tremors, sweating, agitation, and risk of seizures are common in withdrawal from what substance?
Alcohol.
What therapy model teaches skills like distress tolerance and emotional regulation?
DBT – Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
What type of sleep is important for emotional regulation and memory repair, often disrupted by substance use?
REM sleep.