Understanding & Managing Triggers in Recovery

One of the most powerful tools you can develop in sobriety is the ability to understand and manage your triggers. Triggers are emotional, environmental, physical, or social cues that remind you of past substance use—or ignite the urge to return to it. They’re not a sign of weakness; they’re a natural part of the recovery journey.

Contents

● Chapter 1: What Are Triggers and Why

Do They Matter?

● Chapter 2: Internal Triggers—Emotions,

Thoughts, and Physical States

● Chapter 3: External Triggers—People,

Places, and Situations

● Chapter 4: The Role of Trauma and

Memory in Trigger Responses

● Chapter 5: Early Warning Signs and Red

Flags

● Chapter 6: Creating a Personal Trigger

Map

● Chapter 7: Grounding Techniques and

Coping Tools

● Chapter 8: Building a Trigger Response

Plan

● Chapter 9: Talking About Triggers with

Others

● Chapter 10: Growing Stronger Through

Trigger Mastery