Before, During & After I Use

Before, During & After I Use

It can be difficult to understand substance use when we only look at the moment of using. Often there is a whole sequence around it: what happened beforehand, what you were feeling, what changed while you were using and what followed afterwards.

This worksheet helps you slow that sequence down. It can show where an urge begins, what need may be underneath it and what the short-term benefit of using may be. It also gives space to notice the later effects without turning the exercise into self-criticism.

The aim is not perfection. It is to understand your experience well enough to give yourself more choices.

This resource is for personal reflection and is not a substitute for medical, addiction or emergency support.

‍