Recovery Basics
Triggers & Cravings
Coping Skills
Life Skills in Recovery
Fishing, Riddles,& Sayings
100
What does SUD stand for...
Substance Abuse Disorder
100
Define “trigger.”
(A person, place, emotion, or situation that causes the urge to use)
100
Name a healthy coping skill for stress.
(Deep breathing, journaling, walking, Fishing, etc.)
100
What is one way to manage your time better in recovery?
(Using a schedule, setting reminders, prioritizing tasks)
100
What does “casting a line” represent in early recovery?
Reaching out for help or trying new tools and support systems.
200
1st symptom experienced as a sign you're developing a substance abuse disorder...
Increased tolerance
200
What is a craving?
(An intense desire or urge to use a substance)
200
What is the 5,4,3,2,1 mindfulness meditation exercise?
Five things you see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, one thing you can taste.
200
Why is having a daily routine helpful in recovery?
(It creates structure, reduces boredom, and supports consistency)
200
What is the recovery version of a fishing “net,” designed to catch you when you fall?
Your support system—counselors, peers, family, or sponsors.
300
What does “relapse” mean in recovery?
(Returning to substance use after a period of sobriety)
300
Name an example of an external relapse trigger.
People, places, activities, objects, and situations
300
What is emotional regulation?
(Managing and responding to emotions in healthy ways)
300
What is a budget, and why is it important?
(A financial plan to manage money and avoid financial stress)
300
What has keys but can’t open locks?
A piano
400
Define the term “abstinence.”
Avoiding all use of drugs or alcohol completely)
400
Name one internal trigger.
(e.g., loneliness, anxiety, anger)
400
What’s one way to practice self-care?
(Sleep, eating well, hobbies such as FISHING, setting boundaries by saying no, etc.)
400
How can setting boundaries help you stay sober?
(It protects your peace, prevents relapse, and supports healthy relationships)
400
What does “checking your line” mean in recovery terms?
Self-reflection—checking in with yourself emotionally and mentally.
500
Most common addiction across the nation...
- Alcohol
- In 2020, an estimated 28.3 million people aged 12 or older reported struggling with AUD, representing 10.2% of this age group.
500
How long does an average craving usually last?
(15–30 minutes)
500
What is this called
Cognitive Triangle
500
Name a healthy habit that supports long-term recovery.
e.g., meal prepping, morning routines, regular sleep schedule, FISHING!!!!!!
500
I have cities, but no houses. I have forests, but no trees. I have rivers, but no water. What am I?
A map
600
Name a key benefit of long-term recovery.
(Improved health, memory, relationships, job stability, self-esteem, etc.)
600
What is a high-risk situation?
(A circumstance where relapse is more likely)
600
How does exercise help with recovery?
(Reduces stress, improves mood, boosts health)
600
What does "accountability" mean in recovery?
Being responsible for your actions and choices)
600
What’s the recovery version of switching bait if the fish aren’t biting?
Trying new strategies or therapies when current ones aren’t working.
700
Why is honesty important in the recovery process?
It builds trust, allows for genuine self-reflection, and is essential for personal growth and effective treatment.
700
What’s one way to cope with a trigger?
(Call someone, leave the situation, mindfulness meditations, e.g., Pause and Breathe, GO FISHING!!!!!)
700
What’s the difference between avoiding and coping?
(Avoiding suppresses emotions; coping addresses them)
700
What’s one way to improve communication in relationships?
(Active listening, using “I” statements, staying calm)
700
What are two acronyms for
FEAR
Fu#%ck Everything And Run
Face Everything And Rise
I would also accept...
False Evidence Appearing Real
800
What’s the difference between physical and psychological dependence?
Physical involves withdrawal symptoms; psychological involves emotional cravings and compulsions.
800
How does your brain react to a trigger on a neurological level?
Triggers activate the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine and creating a craving or urge by recalling past substance use and the “high” associated with it.
800
How does self-compassion help in recovery, especially after setbacks or relapses?
Self-compassion reduces shame and guilt, encourages accountability without self-punishment, and helps individuals stay engaged in the recovery process instead of giving up.
800
What does it mean to be emotionally independent?
(Being able to manage your emotions without relying on substances or others to "fix" them)
800
Justin says it at the end of every group. "I wish you all....."
LOVE, PEACE, & CHICKEN GREASE
900
With continued substance abuse, the brain will stop producing this brain chemical that enables pleasure..
Dopamine
900
What role does mindfulness play in managing cravings?
(It helps you observe the craving without reacting to it)
900
Name 3 healthy ways to deal with anger.
(Deep breathing, talking it out, physical activity, FISHING, etc.)
900
Why is self-awareness important in recovery?
(It helps you notice patterns, triggers, and emotional responses)
900
Poor people have it. Rich people need it. If you eat it you die. What is it?
Nothing
1000
Is the fastest addicting drug...
Nicotine
1000
Name 3 coping tools to deal with cravings.
(Examples: grounding, calling a sponsor, exercise)
1000
How can practicing gratitude support your mental health and recovery journey?
Gratitude shifts focus away from stress and negativity, builds resilience, and promotes a positive mindset, which can reduce the risk of relapse.
1000
Name a strategy to manage boredom, which can increase the risk of relapse.
(Hobbies: FISHING, volunteering, learning new skills)
1000
I have pointed fangs, and I sit and wait. I have piercing force, and I crunch with weight. I grab my victims, but they do not fight. I join them each with a single, quick bite. What am I?
A stapler.