Recovery Basics
What is the term for stopping the use of alcohol or drugs?
Stopping the use of alcohol or drugs is called abstinence or sobriety.
MYTH or FACT: Addiction is a choice, not a disease
Myth – Addiction is a chronic brain disease that affects decision-making and impulse control
What is active listening?
Paying full attention to the speaker without interrupting, and showing you understand
What does the phrase “just one won’t hurt” represent?
A cognitive trap—a type of thinking that minimizes risk and increases the chance of relapse
Name one type of support group for recovery
AA, NA, SMART Recovery, Celebrate Recovery, Refuge Recovery, etc.
What do we call the period right after quitting when withdrawal and emotional ups and downs are common?
The early period after quitting is called early recovery or withdrawal/acute withdrawal.
MYTH or FACT: You have to hit “rock bottom” before you can recover
Recovery can begin at any stage; early help prevents worse outcomes
What are “I-statements” used for in communication?
To express feelings and needs without blaming or attacking others
Why is boredom considered a relapse trap?
Because lack of stimulation can cause the mind to wander back to old habits and cravings
What is a sponsor?
A sponsor is someone in long-term recovery who guides and supports you in your recovery program
What is “PAWS” short for?
PAWS stands for Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome
MYTH or FACT: Relapse means treatment didn’t work
Relapse can be part of the recovery process and signals that the plan needs adjusting, not that recovery is impossible
What is one example of a nonverbal communication cue?
Body language, eye contact, facial expression, tone of voice, or posture
What is a common emotional relapse trap that happens before physical relapse?
Isolation, irritability, or stopping self-care—signs you’re slipping emotionally
What’s one sign of a healthy support relationship?
A healthy support relationship includes trust, honesty, respect, boundaries, encouragement
What does the phrase “people, places, and things” refer to in recovery?
Triggers
MYTH or FACT: Willpower alone is enough to overcome addiction
Recovery often requires support, coping skills, treatment, and sometimes medication
What does it mean to communicate assertively?
Expressing your needs clearly and respectfully while also considering others’ needs.
What makes “hanging out with old using friends” a high-risk trap?
It exposes you to people and environments tied to past using habits, triggering cravings
Why is isolation risky in early recovery?
Isolation is risky because it increases cravings, depression, negative thinking, and reduces accountability
What’s the difference between abstinence and recovery?
Abstinence is simply not using; recovery includes rebuilding your life, improving mental/physical health, and creating new coping skills.
MYTH or FACT: The brain can heal after addiction
With time and sustained recovery, the brain rewires, and cognitive and emotional functions improve
What is reflective listening?
Restating or summarizing what someone said to show understanding and ensure clarity
What is the relapse trap known as “complacency”?
When someone feels “cured,” stops using recovery tools, and lets their guard down, increasing relapse risk
What is one way to build connection when you feel withdrawn?
A way to connect: join groups, call someone, attend meetings, volunteer, join a class, etc