Stress Happens
What are the three main types of stressors discussed in this session?
Frustrations, pressures, and conflicts.
True or False: Being disorganized can increase stress.
True.
True or False: The people around you can either help your recovery or make recovery more stressful.
True.
Finish the idea: Recovery shouldn't be done in ________.
Isolation.
The Relaxation Response is designed to decrease ________.
Stress. It can also increase inner peace and calm.
True or False: A stressor and stress are the exact same thing.
False. A stressor is something that causes a reaction; stress is your internal reaction to it.
Name one recovery activity that might need to be put on your schedule.
Examples: meetings, calling a sponsor, exercise, therapy, meditation/prayer, or recreational activities.
Name one person you could reach out to when you're stressed.
Examples: sponsor, counselor, supportive friend, family member, peer in recovery, clergyperson, etc.
Name one healthy activity you could do with another person in recovery.
Examples: attend a meeting, exercise, walk, see a movie, get coffee, play sports, go to the park, eat dinner, play games, etc.
Which environment is better for relaxation: a quiet room or a loud, distracting room?
A quiet room.
You really want a job, but you don't have transportation to get there. What type of stressor is the transportation problem?
A frustration — an obstacle is blocking you from reaching a goal.
What should be the main priority during recovery?
Staying sober.
What should you clearly tell friends who are still actively drinking or using?
That you're no longer drinking/using and don't want to be around substance use.
True or False: Spending healthy time with other people can reduce stress and help you avoid high-risk situations.
True.
True or False: If distracting thoughts pop up while you're trying to relax, you've failed and should stop.
False. Simply return your attention to your mental device/focus.
Name two unhealthy ways someone might respond to stress.
Any two: using substances, isolating, becoming angry/irritable, ignoring the problem, giving up hope, smoking more, sleeping poorly, avoiding responsibilities, etc.
When deciding whether to add something new to your life, what question does the curriculum suggest asking yourself?
“Will this be good for my recovery?”
Your old friend says, “Come hang out. You don't have to use. Everybody else will be drinking, though.” Is this person currently supportive or potentially harmful to your recovery?
Potentially harmful.
You have had a horrible day, you're craving, and your first thought is, “I don't want to bother anybody.” What's the healthier recovery response?
Reach out/call someone instead of isolating.
During the Relaxation Response, where do you begin relaxing your muscles: your feet or your face?
Your feet, then work upward toward your face.
Name three healthy ways someone could deal with stress instead of using substances.
Examples: talk to someone, attend a meeting, exercise, see a therapist, use relaxation techniques, pray/meditate, or do a recreational activity.
You're overwhelmed because you're trying to work, attend every meeting, exercise every day, fix every relationship, and handle everything at once. What principle from this session are you missing?
Balance/prioritizing. Too many activities can also create stress.
Give two signs that someone is genuinely supportive of your recovery.
Examples: encourages sobriety, respects boundaries, doesn't encourage substance use, supports meetings/treatment, understands recovery, helps with healthy activities, or offers practical support.
Name three benefits of doing healthy activities with other people.
Examples: support, connection, reduced loneliness, reduced stress, accountability, someone to talk to, staying away from high-risk situations, and having sober fun.
How long does the curriculum recommend continuing the Relaxation Response: 1–2 minutes, 5 minutes, or 10–20 minutes?
10–20 minutes.