Understanding SUD
What’s one myth people believe about addiction that isn’t true?
"People with addiction just lack willpower."
What’s a “blackout” caused by alcohol?
(Loss of memory while drinking heavily)
What does it mean when a drug is “laced” with fentanyl?
(Fentanyl is mixed in secretly, often dangerously)
What’s a “trigger”? Name one.
(Something that causes cravings or urges to use—ex: a place or feeling)
What’s one thing you’re proud of since starting your recovery? (Open-ended)
What’s one thing you’re proud of since starting your recovery? (Open-ended)
What does it mean when someone says addiction is a “progressive” disease?
(It gets worse over time if untreated.)
True or False: You can sober up quickly with coffee or cold showers.
(False – only time sobers you up)
What’s one thing you should do if you think someone is overdosing?
(Call 911, give Narcan, stay with them)
What’s a boundary, and why is it important in recovery?
(Protecting your space/time to stay healthy)
Who do you trust or turn to when you’re struggling? (Open-ended)
Who do you trust or turn to when you’re struggling? (Open-ended)
Name one reason people may relapse even after wanting to stay clean.
(Triggers, stress, untreated mental health)
What’s one hidden way alcohol affects relationships or jobs?
(Unreliability, trust issues, lateness, mood changes)
What’s a major risk of using pills bought off the street?
(They may contain deadly doses or be fake.)
How can having a daily routine help in recovery?
(Gives structure, purpose, and reduces idle time)
What’s a small change that has made a big difference for you? (Open-ended)
What’s a small change that has made a big difference for you? (Open-ended)
What’s the difference between a lapse and a relapse?
(Lapse = one-time use; Relapse = return to a pattern)
What is “functioning alcoholism”?
(Someone appears okay but is still addicted and struggling privately)
What is the “opioid withdrawal” process like? Name one symptom.
(Sweating, chills, nausea, pain, anxiety, etc.)
What’s one healthy way to fill time you used to spend using?
(Hobbies, fitness, groups, volunteering)
What does self-respect mean to you today vs. before recovery? (Open-ended)
What does self-respect mean to you today vs. before recovery? (Open-ended)
What does "dual diagnosis" mean?
(A person has both a mental health disorder and a substance use disorder.)
(Mocktails, support group hangouts, sports, etc.)
What’s one harm-reduction strategy that could save a life?
(Carry Narcan, never use alone, test drugs, etc.)
Role-play: A friend asks why you don’t drink anymore. What’s one thing you could say?
(Practice self-respect and honesty)
If you could give your younger self one message, what would it be? (Open-ended, emotional insight)
If you could give your younger self one message, what would it be? (Open-ended, emotional insight)