The Brain + Body
Which substance slows down the central nervous system and affects coordination and reaction time?
Alcohol
What is the legal age to purchase alcohol in Australia?
18
What short-term effect of alcohol increases the risk of accidents and injuries?
Impaired judgement (or slowed reaction time)
Is vaping “just water vapour”?
No
What type of communication involves saying no clearly and respectfully?
Assertive Communication
What is the name of the main psychoactive chemical found in cannabis?
What is the name of the main psychoactive chemical found in cannabis?
Is it legal or illegal to sell nicotine vapes to people under 18 in Australia?
Illegal
What is the term used when the body becomes reliant on a substance like nicotine?
Addiction or dependence
Does drinking coffee make someone sober after consuming alcohol?
No
What is one protective strategy someone can use before attending a party where alcohol may be present?
Plan transport, set limits, go with trusted friends (any appropriate strategy)
Which addictive chemical is commonly found in vapes and increases heart rate?
Which addictive chemical is commonly found in vapes and increases heart rate?
Can you lose your driver’s licence if THC (from cannabis) is detected in your system while driving?
Yes
Which organ is most commonly damaged by long-term heavy alcohol use?
Liver
What is the term for drinking a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time?
Binge drinking
Why is help-seeking considered a strength rather than a weakness in health decision-making?
It increases safety, shows self-awareness, and improves outcomes.
Which part of the brain is responsible for decision-making and impulse control and is still developing during adolescence?
Pre frontal cortex
What type of consequences can occur if someone supplies alcohol to a minor?
Fines or legal penalties
Regular cannabis use during adolescence is linked to increased risk of what types of mental health issues?
Anxiety, depression, or psychosis
Which brain chemical linked to reward and pleasure is affected by nicotine?
Dopamine
How can planning ahead reduce the likelihood of risky substance use?
Setting limits, arranging transport, attending with trusted friends reduces impulsive decisions.
Explain how regular cannabis use during adolescence could impact learning and memory over time.
ATHC affects areas of the brain involved in memory (like the hippocampus). Because the adolescent brain is still developing, repeated exposure can interfere with memory formation, concentration, and cognitive development.
Why might governments regulate vaping products differently from other consumer products?
Because they contain addictive substances (nicotine), pose health risks, and can impact public health. Governments regulate them to reduce harm, protect young people, and manage long-term healthcare costs.
Explain how substance use can create a cycle of risk in a young person’s life.
Substance use can lead to poor decisions → legal or school consequences → stress or conflict → increased substance use as a coping strategy → further negative outcomes. This can reinforce ongoing risky behaviour.
Why can the statement “Everyone is doing it” be a powerful but misleading belief when it comes to alcohol, vaping, or cannabis use?
It’s misleading because perception does not equal reality. Social circles and social media can exaggerate how common substance use is. This is called a “social norm misperception,” where people overestimate how many others are engaging in a behaviour, which can increase peer pressure and influence risky decisions.
Describe how strong personal values and future goals can act as protective factors against substance use.
When students have clear goals (sport, career, reputation, relationships), they are more likely to evaluate risks carefully and avoid behaviours that could jeopardise those outcomes. Values guide decision-making under pressure.