Famous Faces
This Iron Man actor has openly discussed his history of addiction and recovery.
Who is Robert Downey Jr?
True or false: A person must hit rock bottom before recovery can begin.
FICTION
Which artist released the classic song Superstition in 1972?
Who is Stevie Wonder
What brain chemical is heavily involved in reward and motivation?
What is dopamine?
You've been in treatment for two weeks. Another resident tells you that he plans to leave and use tonight. He asks you not to tell staff because he trusts you. What do you do?
POSSIBLE HEALTHY RESPONSE
Take the concern seriously, encourage him to speak with staff, and alert staff yourself if needed. Supporting someone's safety may require breaking a promise of secrecy.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
What's the difference between loyalty and enabling?
This Friends actor wrote a memoir about his experiences with addiction.
Who is Matthew Perry
A person can experience substance cravings even after the physical withdrawal symptoms have ended.
FACT
What 1976 boxing film starred Sylvester Stallone?
What is Rocky?
What term describes needing more of a substance to achieve the same effect?
What is tolerance?
Your partner says they're willing to support your recovery but refuses to stop drinking alcohol at home. They tell you, 'My drinking isn't your problem.' What do you do?
POSSIBLE HEALTHY RESPONSE
Communicate your needs clearly, explore boundaries and safer living arrangements, and involve your treatment team in planning. You cannot control your partner's drinking, but you can make decisions about your recovery environment.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
What's the difference between setting a boundary and trying to control someone?
This legendary musician known as the Man in Black struggled with prescription drug addiction.
Who is Johnny Cash?
Someone who only drinks beer is at lower risk of developing alcohol use disorder than someone who drinks liquor, regardless of how much they consume.
FICTION
Which singer was known as the Godfather of Soul?
Who is James Brown
What is the term for a learned association that can spark a craving, such as passing an old drinking spot?
What is a cue or trigger?
You've completed treatment and returned to work. Your supervisor constantly criticizes you, and you feel the same resentment that contributed to your substance use. Quitting would put you at financial risk. What do you do?
Avoid making an impulsive decision. Explore ways to address the workplace problem, seek support, develop coping strategies, and consider other employment options while protecting financial stability.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
When does walking away become avoidance, and when is it healthy self-respect?
This British rock star and pianist has spoken publicly about decades of sobriety.
Who is Elton John?
A person can meet the criteria for a substance use disorder without experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms.
FACT
Which 1994 film featured the characters Jules and Vincent?
What is Pulp Fiction
What is the term for the brains ability to change and reorganize experience and learning?
What is neuroplasticity?
You discover that a close friend has been lying to their spouse about using substances again. The spouse asks you directly whether your friend is using. Your friend has begged you to keep it secret. What do you do?
POSSIBLE HEALTHY RESPONSE
Consider safety, confidentiality, and your own boundaries. You can refuse to lie, encourage your friend to disclose the truth, and seek professional guidance when safety concerns arise. You do not have to become responsible for managing their relationship.
DISCUSSION QUESTION
Is refusing to lie the same thing as betraying a friend?