Recovery Basics
What does “sober” usually mean?
Not using drugs or alcohol.
What is a trigger?
Something that makes you want to use.
What is a coping skill?
A healthy way to handle emotions or stress.
A friend you used to get high with messages you out of the blue. What do you do?
Ignore, block, or let a support person know.
What type of drug is alcohol — stimulant or depressant?
Depressant.
What is the goal of Medication-Assisted Treatment (like methadone)?
To reduce cravings and help people stay off illicit opioids.
Name one internal trigger and one external trigger.
Internal: stress, sadness. External: person, place, object.
Name a coping skill that works in a public place.
Deep breathing, counting, texting support, music.
You feel stressed and notice thoughts of using. What’s your first move?
Identify the feeling, use a coping skill, contact support.
What is one common effect of opioids on the body?
Pain relief, drowsiness, slowed breathing, constipation.
What’s one reason someone might drop out of treatment early?
Stress, triggers, lack of support, relapse, stigma.
Name one thing you can say to someone offering you drugs.
“No thanks,” “I’m in recovery,” “I don’t do that anymore.”
Why is it important to learn new coping skills in recovery?
Old habits often involved using; new ones help us stay clean.
You show up to a group and someone is talking about using. How do you handle it?
Talk to staff, step out, protect your own space.
What is withdrawal?
Physical or emotional symptoms that happen when stopping a drug.
What are 2 differences between recovery and just quitting drugs?
Recovery involves lifestyle change, healing, support; not just stopping use.
What’s the difference between a trigger and a craving?
A trigger causes the craving; a craving is the urge or desire.
Why is self-talk important when dealing with cravings or stress?
Positive self-talk helps you stay calm, focused, and in control instead of giving in to urges or negative thoughts.
You relapse and feel ashamed. You’re thinking of quitting your program. What would you do instead?
Be honest, reach out for help, learn from it, and stay connected.
What’s one reason someone might overdose even if they used the same amount they used before?
Their tolerance is lower after a break from using (like after detox or jail).
What are 3 parts of a solid recovery plan?
Support system, coping skills, medical/treatment, goals, structure.
Name 3 healthy ways to handle a craving when you're alone.
Call someone, distract yourself, write, mindfulness, exercise, leave the space.
What’s a grounding technique you can use during a panic or urge?
“5-4-3-2-1” senses check, box breathing, body scan, name surroundings.
Someone in your life doesn’t believe in recovery or supports your old lifestyle. What do you do?
Set boundaries, reduce contact, get support, protect your recovery space.
What are 2 long-term effects of regular drug or alcohol use on mental health?
Increased anxiety, depression, memory loss, mood swings, or psychosis.