Alcohol
What are some signs and symptoms of alcohol poisoning? Bonus: what is alcohol poisoning?
A) Vomiting repeatedly
B) Slow or irregular breathing
C) Cold and pale skin
D) All of the above
All of the above
What chemical in vapes makes people keep coming back for more?
Nicotine
True or false: Cannabis is always safe because it is natural
False!
The fact that a substance is “natural” does not mean it is safe. Cannabis does contain psychoactive components that affect the brain and body
What is stress, and what are common causes?
Stress is your body's natural response to facing pressures or challenges
Some causes
- Academic or family pressure
- Money worries
- Social / peer pressure
- High expectations
- Friend or family conflicts
According to Canadian low risk alcohol drinking guidelines, how many drinks should youth be limited to per week, with parental consent?
A) no more than once/week
B) no more than twice/week
C) No more than 3 times/week
D) none of the above
B) no more than twice/week AND no more than 1 or 2 standard drinks each time
What’s one thing you might feel when you stop vaping for a few days- and why does that happen?
Some examples: Irritability, feeling tired, headaches, hunger
This is because your body is adjusting to less nicotine (a drug that it got used to)
Name one physical and one psychological effect of cannabis use
Physical effects: slowed coordination, nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, or dry mouth
Psychological effects: feeling relaxed or euphoric, but sometimes anxious or paranoid
What are 3 signs you might be dealing with stress?
Some examples
- Difficulty concentrating
- Fast heartbeat
- Shaky hands
- Feeling irritable
- Easily fatigued
- Appetite changes
- Racing or obsessive thoughts
What are some long term effects of alcohol consumption? (Students can answer any 2 of the following options)
Liver damage
Nervous system and mental health - worsening anxiety or depression, memory problems
Decreased appetite, malnutrition, and vitamin deficiencies
Disturbed sleep patterns
Increased risk of certain types of cancer, such as rectal breast, liver, stomach, mouth, and throat
Heart - increase blood pressure and increased risk of stroke
Sexual problems, such as erectile dysfunction and infertility
Addiction
Why do people often say they will “just stop vaping later”, but then end up continuing?
This is because nicotine causes dependence, makes the brain want more, and rewires brain reward circuits.
What is one thing you can do to make cannabis use safer?
Some examples
- Know the source
- One substance at a time
- Use it in a safe space
- Plan your way home (NOT biking or driving yourself)
True or False: Small amounts of stress can be helpful
True!
Small doses of stress can be beneficial for keeping you motivated, and to stay alert and react in cases of danger. But stress that is too frequent or intense can be harmful to health.
How can one use alcohol more safely? Name 2 ways!
Respect the alcohol limit
Eat before and while drinking to slow absorption of alcohol into the bloodstream
Drink water between drinks
Do NOT mix alcohol with other drugs
Stay with people you trust
Plan your ride home BEFORE drinking
Name one possible physical symptom linked to vaping
Chronic cough, shortness of breath, or feeling dizzy
What age does the brain develop until? BONUS: Why does this matter?
A) 13
B) 17
C) 25
D) 40
C) Age 25
Cannabis use before the brain is fully developed increases the risk of developing longer-term effects such as addiction and mental health struggles.
Which of the following are healthy coping strategies:
A) Doomscrolling
B) Ignoring your stress until it goes away
C) Talking with a trusted friend
D) Avoiding people until you feel better
C) Talking with a trusted friend (or even journaling)
This type of strategy involves acknowledging your feelings and taking positive actions in a safe and supportive way, rather than suppressing or ignoring your emotions.
How does alcohol cause a “buzz”?
A) It travels to the brain and acts as a depressant
B) It speeds up messages between the brain and body
C) It increases the amount of oxygen in the blood
D) It raises blood sugar levels, creating a short burst of energy
A) It travels to the brain and acts as a depressant
Name one possible mental-health effect linked to vaping
Some examples: Feeling anxious or down, trouble sleeping
Name one effect of cannabis caused by THC and one caused by CBD
THC is responsible for euphoria, altered perception, or anxiety at high doses
CBD is responsible for pain relief relaxation, reduce anxiety, or counteract some effects of THC
Why is it important to identify stress triggers?
A) It helps to eliminate stress forever
B) It makes you focus on negative things
C) It shows that you can’t handle pressure
D) It helps you anticipate stress and respond early
D) It helps you anticipate stress and respond early
Identifying stress triggers might feel uncomfortable, but it is an important step in allowing you to prepare in advance and use strategies to manage it effectively.