Nicotine & the Brain
What addictive drug is found in cigarettes and many vaping products?
Nicotine
What is addiction?
Having difficulty stopping a substance or behaviour even when it causes problems.
What is a substance?
Something that can affect how the body or brain works.
What is peer pressure?
When other people influence someone to think or act in a certain way.
What substance is found in beer, wine, and liquor?
Alcohol
What brain chemical helps with motivation, learning, and rewards?
Dopamine
What is a craving?
A strong urge to use a substance.
Name two substances other than nicotine that we discussed in class.
Alcohol, cannabis, caffeine, prescription medications, or other drugs.
Give one reason a teenager might feel pressured to try vaping.
To fit in, impress friends, avoid being left out, or feel accepted.
What is another common name for cannabis?
Marijuana
Why is nicotine especially harmful to teenagers?
Their brains are still developing, and nicotine can affect attention, learning, and mood.
Name two withdrawal symptoms someone might experience when they stop using nicotine.
Irritability, restlessness, headaches, or difficulty concentrating.
What is an over-the-counter medication? Give one example.
Medicine purchased without a prescription, such as Tylenol or certain cough medicines.
What is one possible health risk of drinking too many energy drinks?
Racing heart, shakiness, anxiety, or sleep problems.
Name two abilities that alcohol can affect.
Judgment, coordination, or reaction time.
How does nicotine affect the brain's reward system?
It increases dopamine activity, making the brain associate nicotine with a rewarding feeling.
True or false: Everyone who tries nicotine once becomes addicted. Explain.
False. Trying nicotine once does not automatically cause addiction, but repeated use increases the risk.
Name two health risks of misusing performance-enhancing drugs such as anabolic steroids.
Heart problems, mood changes, hormone changes, growth problems, or liver damage.
Describe two healthy ways to respond if friends pressure someone to vape.
Say no, walk away, suggest another activity, or talk to a trusted adult.
Why is cannabis use especially concerning for teenagers?
Their brains are still developing, and cannabis can affect memory, attention, and learning.
Why might a teenager continue vaping even after learning about the health risks? (NOT Peer Pressure)
Nicotine can cause cravings and dependence, making quitting difficult.
What is the difference between physical and psychological dependence?
Physical dependence involves the body's adaptation and withdrawal symptoms. Psychological dependence involves feeling a need to use a substance in certain situations or to cope with feelings.
Why is it incorrect to say that all drugs are illegal or harmful?
Some drugs are medicines that help treat medical conditions when used correctly.
Why might it be difficult for someone to say no when their friends offer them alcohol or drugs?
They might fear losing friends, being judged, or being left out.
Why can alcohol and cannabis still be harmful to teenagers, even though adults can legally use them?
It can still cause health problems, affect brain development, and increase the risk of unsafe decisions.