Understanding Sobriety
What is sobriety?
Living free from mood-altering substances and maintaining balance in mind, body, and behavior.
Why is having a daily schedule important in recovery?
It creates structure and reduces idle time that can lead to cravings.
What is a trigger?
Any person, place, feeling, or situation that increases the urge to use.
Why is having a support system vital in recovery?
It provides accountability, encouragement, and guidance when challenges arise.
What is relapse prevention?
Recognizing and managing warning signs before returning to use.
What is the first step toward maintaining sobriety?
Making a personal commitment to recovery and recognizing the problem.
What does it mean to “plan ahead” in recovery?
Anticipating risky situations and preparing healthy responses before they happen.
Name one internal trigger.
Stress, boredom, anger, loneliness, guilt, or fatigue.
What is one healthy coping skill for stress?
Deep breathing, exercise, journaling, talking to someone, or mindfulness.
What is one early warning sign of relapse?
Withdrawing from support, skipping meetings, or romanticizing past use.
What does “recovery is a process” mean?
It takes time, ongoing effort, and daily choices, not a single event.
What is one example of a healthy daily routine habit?
Attending meetings, exercising, journaling, or practicing mindfulness.
Name one external trigger.
Being around old using friends, certain neighborhoods, or seeing drug paraphernalia.
What’s one difference between a “supportive friend” and an “enabler”?
A supportive friend respects your boundaries; an enabler helps you avoid consequences or relapse.
What is a “high-risk situation”?
A setting, event, or emotional state that increases the chance of using.
What is the difference between abstinence and recovery?
Abstinence is not using; recovery is changing the thoughts and behaviors that led to use.
How can setting goals help support sobriety?
Goals provide direction, motivation, and a sense of purpose beyond substance use.
Why is it important to write down your triggers?
It builds awareness and helps develop specific coping plans.
How can spirituality or mindfulness help recovery?
It promotes inner peace, perspective, and self-awareness.
Why is self-care part of relapse prevention?
It reduces stress and keeps your emotional health strong.
What is one key reason self-honesty is critical in recovery?
Because denial and minimization can lead to relapse and prevent growth.
What are the three key components of a good sobriety plan?
Structure, support, and coping strategies.
What is the best way to handle unavoidable triggers?
Use coping tools such as grounding, calling supports, or leaving the situation safely.
What should you do if you feel triggered or tempted to use?
Reach out to support, use coping skills, change environment, and remind yourself of goals.
What is the most effective mindset for long-term sobriety?
Staying proactive, connected, and committed to growth — not complacent.