Some patterns are hard to change. While you’re focused on moving forward, some situations might make it harder to stick to your goals. Some situations can have an intense pull that means you’re already acting out old patterns before you realise it. These situations are sometimes called risky situations. 

Make a list of all the situations that could make sticking to your goals hard. Here are some common examples to get you started:

  • Spending time with friends you used with.
  • Being in places where you’ve used before.
  • Doing activities that you associate with using. 


Triggers are things that spark sudden strong urges or make it likely that you respond out of habit without thinking. Make a list of the triggers that you might experience that could make sticking to your goals hard. Here are some common examples: 

  • Feeling stressed.
  • Feeling embarrassed.
  • Feeling hungry.
  • Feeling angry.
  • Feeling lonely.
  • Feeling tired.
  • Arguments. 
  • Missing medications. 
  • Seeing objects or locations that remind you of past use (e.g. needles, baggies, other equipment) 

Once you have your lists, think about how’d like to handle these risky situations and triggers. Try to identify the ones that you could avoid completely, and figure out how you could stay away from those situations or routines. Sometimes it isn’t possible to avoid risky situations or triggers, and you’ll need to figure out different ways to handle those situations. Here’s a great resource to help you plan for this.

It can also be helpful to talk to someone you trust about your plan to get their support.

These situations and triggers won’t always feel as strong as they do right now, and your skills to manage them will grow. Over time, you may be able to allow them back into your life. But for now, figuring out how to handle them gives you the best chance of success. 

"So I'm going back to my girlfriend at the time and I walk into the room and they're using meth. And I'm just like, what the hell? Like I just...turn my back and walk out of the room. So I don't relapse. I walk out of there."  

"Doing the steps and staying away from old associates, people that were still using. That was the whole foundation of where I am today." 

- Dylan, talking about his recovery journey