Triggers & Cravings
A trigger is something that increases the urge to use.
What is a person, place, feeling, or situation?
What is rationalization?
“This one time won’t hurt.”
What is exercise, journaling, talking to someone, or deep breathing?
healthy coping skill.
People who encourage recovery are part of this.
a support system
Relapse is a process, not just this.
a single event
This type of trigger comes from emotions like stress, anger, or sadness.
What is an internal trigger?
What is black-and-white thinking?
“All or nothing thinking”
What is the 5-4-3-2-1 technique?
grounding technique
This type of boundary protects your recovery.
a healthy boundary
The first stage of relapse often involves this (before using).
emotional relapse
Name one HALT state that can increase cravings.
What is Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired?
What is relapse justification or the abstinence violation effect?
A thought like “I already messed up, so I might as well keep using.”
What are some support systems?
Calling a sponsor, friend, or support person
What is a healthy relationship?
A relationship where both people support each other’s growth.
Having a plan for high-risk situations is called this.
a relapse prevention plan
This strategy involves avoiding people or places connected to past use.
What is trigger avoidance?
What is cognitive restructuring?
This skill involves challenging and changing negative thoughts.
What is behavioral activation?
Coping strategies that involve scheduling positive activities.
What is assertive communication?
a communication style that is clear and respectful.
A slip or lapse means this.
a brief return to use, not full relapse
This coping skill involves noticing cravings without acting on them.
What is urge surfing or mindfulness?
What is a core belief or limiting belief?
Believing you can’t handle life without substances
What is impulse control or delay technique?
Taking a pause before acting on urges
Spending time with people who use can increase this.
a risk of relapse
Learning from relapse instead of giving up shows this.
a resilience or growth mindset