All or Nothing (Total Abstinence)
What does “total abstinence” mean in recovery?
Choosing not to use any substances at all
What does manipulation mean?
Trying to control or influence someone in a dishonest way.
Why is staying busy helpful in recovery?
It reduces boredom and cravings, and builds purpose.
What is a trigger?
Something that causes cravings or reminds you of using.
Name one way people can celebrate a recovery milestone without using substances.
Having a special meal, sharing with support group, treating themselves to something meaningful, etc.
True or False: Moderation can be a safe strategy for people in recovery.
False
Give one example of a manipulative behavior someone in addiction might use.
Lying, guilt-tripping, blaming, making excuses, etc.
True or False: Staying busy means overworking yourself.
False.
True or False: Triggers are always avoidable.
False.
Fill in the blank: “Recovery is not about perfection, it’s about ______.”
Progress.
What’s one reason total abstinence is encouraged in recovery programs?
Even small use can trigger relapse / cravings.
Why is recognizing manipulation important in recovery?
To build honest, healthy relationships and accountability.
What’s one benefit of volunteering or helping others during recovery?
Builds self-worth, keeps you occupied, creates connection.
Name one internal trigger and one external trigger.
Internal = stress, loneliness; External = people, places, objects.
After 5 years of continuous sobriety, the relapse rate drops to less than what percent?
15%.
Fill in the blank: “One is too many, and a thousand is never ______.”
Enough.
True or False: Manipulation can sometimes happen without a person realizing they are doing it.
True.
Name two ways to structure your free time to support recovery.
Using schedules, setting goals, joining groups, practicing hobbies, etc.
Research has found that around what percentage of former friends influence relapse in individuals who have completed rehab?
About 50 %
Within how many months of abstinence do most people start reporting improved brain function and decision-making?
About 12 months.
Studies show that people who attempt moderation instead of total abstinence in recovery are how many times more likely to relapse?
About twice as likely.
What is one healthy alternative to manipulation when asking for support?
Being direct and honest about needs.
Research shows that people in recovery who engage in regular exercise are about what percent less likely to relapse compared to those who don’t?
Around 50% less likely.
According to a mathematical model of relapse, what type of emotional experience—rather than large positive events—serves as the best protective factor against relapse?
Exposure to mild, continuous sources of contentment.
What is one personal “win” you’ve experienced or noticed since beginning recovery?
Open-ended (share personal wins).