Addiction & the Brain
What is addiction?
Using something even when it causes problems
What does every choice have?
A consequence.
Name one feeling you learned about.
Sad, angry, happy, scared, etc.
Name one healthy coping skill
Deep breathing, talking to someone, exercise, etc.
What does it mean to take responsibility?
Admit what you did and try to fix it.
What does “self-awareness” mean?
Knowing your own thoughts, feelings, and actions
Give an example of a positive consequence
Earning trust, getting praise, reaching a goal, etc.
What is a trigger?
Something that makes you want to use or act out
Why is a support system important?
It helps you stay on track and not feel alone.
What are the three steps to making amends?
Admit, Apologize, Act.
Name one way addiction changes your brain
Makes it harder to make good choices or control urges
Give an example of a negative consequence.
Losing privileges, getting in trouble, losing trust, etc.
Name one body signal that tells you you’re having a strong feeling.
Racing heart, sweaty hands, clenched fists, etc.)
Who is one person you can ask for help?
Staff, counselor, family member, friend, etc.
How do you build trust over time?
By being consistent and following through with your actions.
What is one thing you learned about how addiction affects decision-making?
It can make you act on impulse or lose control over choices
Why is pausing before acting important?
It helps you think before you act and avoid mistakes
Why is it important to notice your feelings before you act?
So you can choose how to respond instead of just reacting.
What is one way to ask for help when you need it?
Tell someone you trust, use “I” statements, ask directly, etc.
Why is consistency important for trust?
Because people need to see you do the right thing over and over.
Why is it important to understand how addiction affects your brain?
So you can recognize patterns and work on changing them
How can making good choices help you in recovery?
It leads to positive outcomes and helps rebuild trust.
What is one way to handle a trigger in a healthy way?
Use a coping skill, talk to someone, leave the situation, etc.
How do coping skills help you stay in balance?
They help you handle stress, avoid relapse, and manage emotions.
hat is one thing you can do this week to show responsibility?
Personal answer—examples: follow through on a promise, keep a commitment, apologize and fix a mistake, etc.