One of the long-standing obstacles to recovery is the emotional and physical cues that we experience, which make us feel like using alcohol and drugs. These cues are most commonly referred to as triggers, and they can manifest differently for different people. For some, seeing old friends and loved ones is enough to trigger wanting a drink; for others, the stress of performing well at work or school elicits the old feelings of using performance-enhancing substances. Whatever the cause, triggers should be expected—and like many other facets of recovery, expecting and planning for them is the best course of action for success. Tonight, we talk about Triggers Our generous Recovered Podcast Community allows us to be self supporting and not rely on outside contributions.  If you would like to join us, there are three ways. Episode Sponsorship  We will recognize you by first name only at the top, mid, and end of the episode.  Any amount will qualify. Premium Membership  This is the single most effective way to support the show.  Watch the video in its entirety and learn how to become Premium Sustaining Partners  We have three ways in which you can participate in this 12-step mission We invite you to be a partner is this work. Call Us Now  http://recoveredcast.com/speakpipe email mark@recoveredcast.com So, listeners, join us at The 2020 International Convention of AA in Detroit. If you are coming into town for the convention, the Recovered Podcast wants to meet you! If you would like to get all the information regarding the Recovered Podcast at the 2020 International Convention, just email me and we will get you on our google group. Just email me at mark@recoveredcast.com To get on our 2020 International Convention Google group This google group will be notified with all the Recovered Podcast Plans for the convention and will have all the information about how to find our tailgate party.  Right now, our google group has been provided with maps and general information about Detroit. Email me at mark@recoveredcast.com if you want these kinds of updates. Identifying a trigger is not always easy as they can sometimes have no direct somatic effect (a physical effect on your body). However, there are several common types of symptoms brought on by an addiction trigger. These symptoms are broken down into categories—physical and psychological symptoms—and knowing about both can help you protect your recovery. First thoughts? What are triggers? When you were new, what triggered you to use? Exposure to the substance itself. Seeing other people using. Contact with people, places, times of day, and situations commonly associated with using (such as drinking buddies, parties, and bars, getting home from work, weekends). Particular types of emotions (such as frustration, fatigue, feeling stressed out); even positive emotions (elation, excitement, feelings of accomplishment) can be triggering. Physical feelings (feeling sick, shaky, tense). HALT: Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired Emotions Stress Over-confidence Mental or physical illness Social isolation Sex and relationships Getting a promotion or new job Reminiscing about or glamorising past drug use Social situations or places where drugs are available What did it feel like? Did you ever succumb? What happened? Relapse is a process, what does this mean? How did you fight off triggers early in recovery? What part of the program helped (sponsor, fellowship, meetings, prayer, slogans, etc.)? Today, what triggers you to bad behavior? How do you fight off? What are some other methods? Engage in some form of distracting activity. Talk it through. Challenge and change your thoughts.   What would you say to the new person about Triggers? We have calls ______________________________________________________ We asked our listeners about this topic. Now, listeners, If you would like to participate in these weekly surveys, just email me for an invite request. Email me at mark@recoveredcast.com And I will send y