Life Problems
What are some typical problems faced during active addiction?
Ignoring problems, distorted thinking, blaming others, and being overwhelmed by problems.
What is the first step in solving any problem?
Identifying the problem.
Name one technique to use when stuck on a problem.
Brainstorming.
What should you do first when addressing a personal problem?
Identify the problem specifically.
What common feelings might someone in early recovery experience when facing problems?
Frustration, disorientation, and feeling overwhelmed.
Why do people with addiction often ignore their problems?
Because getting and using drugs becomes their main priority.
What does it mean to "own the problem"?
Understanding how the problem started, contributing behaviors, and being willing to change.
How can breaking big problems into manageable pieces help?
It makes them easier to tackle and reduces feeling overwhelmed.
How do you start owning a problem?
By understanding how it started and what behaviors contributed to it.
How can a sponsor or counselor help with problem-solving in early recovery?
By providing support, guidance, and new perspectives.
What is a common effect of distorted thinking caused by addiction?
People believe they are not responsible for their own problems.
Why is it important to list all possible solutions?
To consider new approaches and see how others have solved similar problems.
Why is it important to ask for help during recovery?
Because others can provide support and different perspectives on solving problems.
Why should you describe potential outcomes realistically?
To avoid unrealistic fears and expectations, focusing on practical solutions.
What can happen if problems are avoided during recovery?
They can accumulate and become more overwhelming.
Name a question from Exercise 1 related to blaming others.
Have you ever blamed someone else for a problem that you caused?
What should you do after describing possible outcomes for solutions?
Make a plan and stick to it.
How can you weigh the benefits and risks of potential solutions?
By considering short- and long-term objectives.
What is important to include in your problem-solving plan?
Steps involved, who is responsible, and a backup plan if necessary.
What is a healthier way to deal with problems compared to ignoring them?
Addressing them directly and seeking help if needed.
What is the importance of “willingness” in problem solving during early sobriety?
Willingness is crucial for finding solutions to problems.
What is a critical part of learning from the outcome of problem-solving efforts?
If something doesn’t work, try another approach or if it works, try it again.
What is the role of prioritizing problems in recovery?
It helps focus on the most pressing issues first, leading to more effective problem-solving.
How should you assess the outcome of your problem-solving efforts?
By identifying what worked best and what could be done differently.
What might keep someone from dealing with a problem in recovery?
Believing the problem is too serious to be solved.