Coping Skills
Name one healthy way to cope with stress.
Exercise, Journaling, Meditation, Talking to a friend, Deep breathing, etc.
Define a 'trigger.'
A person, place, thing, or feeling that causes a craving or urge to use.
What does 'sobriety' mean?
Living without the use of mind-altering substances.
Who could be a part of a support system?
Family, therapist/counselor, sponsor, sober friends, support group members, etc.
True or False - You must hit 'rock bottom' to get help.
False - Help is beneficial at any stage.
What's a distraction technique you can use in a craving moment?
Calling someone, going for a walk, listening to music, playing a game, doing a puzzle, etc.
Name one internal and one external trigger.
Internal: stress, anger; External: parties, bars, seeing people use.
What's one benefit of staying sober?
Improved health, relationships, mental clarity, legal/financial stability.
Why is honesty important in recovery?
Builds trust, prevents denial, and helps others support you effectively.
Myth or Fact - Addiction is a choice
How can deep breathing help in recovery?
Calms anxiety, resets focus, reduces stress, etc.
Why is HALT important in trigger awareness?
HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) highlights emotional/physical states that make one vulnerable.
What's a relapse?
What is an 'accountability partner'?
Someone who checks in regularly and helps you stay on track with goals.
Myth or Fact - Recovery is possible at any age.
Fact - Anyone can recover, regardless of age.
Name two grounding techniques.
5-4-3-2-1 senses, holding an ice cube, focusing on your breath, etc.
What's one way to deal with an unexpected trigger?
Call a support system, leave the situation, use a coping skill.
What is a relapse prevention plan?
A written plan that identifies triggers and coping strategies to stay sober.
What's one benefit of going to group therapy?
Shared experiences, peer support, reduced isolation.
True or False - Relapse means failure.
False - It's a setback, not the end. Recovery is still possible.
What's the difference between avoidance and healthy boundaries?
Avoidance is fear-based and can lead to isolation; boundaries are intentional limits for self-care and safety.
True or False - Triggers disappear after 6 months of sobriety.
False- Triggers can last a long time but become easier to manage.
True or False - Recovery is a one-time event
False - Recovery is a lifelong process.
Name a situation where assertive communication is useful.
Saying no to substances, setting boundaries, asking for help.
Myth or Fact - Only certain types of people struggle with addiction.
Myth - Addiction can affect anyone regardless of background.