Key Terms in Recovery
Understanding Addiction
Mental Health Disorders
Practical Recovery Tips
Addiction Facts
100

This term refers to the gradual reduction of substance use under medical supervision.

What is tapering?

100

This substance, often called a "gateway drug," is known for its potential to lead to the use of other illicit substances.

What is marijuana?

100

This disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings including emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression).

What is bipolar disorder?

100

This term refers to the ongoing process of improving one's mental and emotional health after addiction treatment.

What is aftercare?

100

This term describes a condition where someone continues to use a substance despite significant problems caused by its use.

What is substance use disorder?

200

A person who has experienced recovery and offers support and guidance to others is known as a _______.

What is a sponsor?

200

This condition is characterized by a compulsion to repeatedly engage in a behavior despite harmful consequences, such as gambling.

What is a behavioral addiction?

200

This anxiety disorder involves persistent, excessive worry about various aspects of daily life.

What is generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)?

200

This daily practice can help individuals manage stress and maintain mental clarity by focusing on the present moment.

What is mindfulness meditation?

200

This part of the brain, often referred to as the "reward center," is heavily involved in addiction.

What is the limbic system?

300

This term describes the recurring nature of addiction where a person returns to substance use after a period of abstinence.

What is relapse?

300

The term for a severe, often life-threatening reaction to alcohol withdrawal is called ______.

What is delirium tremens?

300

This disorder is marked by periods of intense fear and discomfort, often including symptoms like heart palpitations and dizziness.

What is a panic disorder?

300

This type of support group provides a structured format for individuals to share experiences and support one another in recovery.

What is a fellowship meeting?

300

This is a common term for the process of quitting a substance, often accompanied by withdrawal symptoms.

What is detoxification?

400

This is the practice of sharing one's personal experiences and challenges in a supportive group setting.

What is sharing?

400

This type of drug, such as heroin or cocaine, directly affects the brain’s reward system.

What are stimulants?

400

This mental health disorder is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.

What is depression?

400

This strategy involves developing a plan to handle cravings and high-risk situations to prevent relapse.

What is a relapse prevention plan?

400

This treatment approach involves using medication to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?

500

This practice involves actively engaging in making amends for past wrongs.

What is making amends?

500

This neurotransmitter is commonly linked to the pleasure and reward system and is often affected by addictive substances.

What is dopamine?

500

This therapeutic approach focuses on changing unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior.

What is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)?

500

This approach involves using professional guidance and structured therapy to address underlying issues contributing to addiction.

What is counseling?

500

This organization, founded in 1953, is known for its efforts to address drug addiction and provide support through twelve-step programs.

What is Narcotics Anonymous (NA)?