Depressant Basics
What nickname is commonly used for depressant drugs?
Downers
What is the most commonly known depressant drug?
Alcohol
Name one short-term effect of depressants on behavior.
More talkative, bold, confused, or uncoordinated.
Is alcohol classified as a stimulant or depressant?
Depressant
What is the best way to avoid alcohol-related harm?
Not using alcohol
What neurotransmitter do depressants increase in the brain?
GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric Acid)
Name one prescription depressant
Benzodiazepines, sedatives, or barbiturates
What mental skill is often affected by depressants?
Decision-making
What is one reason alcohol poisoning occurs?
People don’t know how much alcohol they’re consuming
Name one harm-reduction strategy teens can use if alcohol is present.
Avoid places with underage drinking, have a sober person, don’t drink and drive
What body system is slowed down by depressant drugs?
The central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord)
Which depressant is also known as a “sleeping pill”?
Sedatives (e.g., Ambien, Lunesta)
What happens to the body when too much of a depressant is used?
Bodily functions slow and breathing may stop
What basic life functions can alcohol poisoning shut down?
Breathing, heart rate, and temperature control
What does “don’t mix substances” help prevent?
Overdose and death
Why does increasing GABA slow brain activity?
GABA reduces brain signaling/excitability
Why can prescription depressants still be dangerous even when prescribed?
They can slow breathing, cause dependence, and be misused
What long-term risk can develop with repeated depressant use?
Physical dependence or addiction, Severe mental and physical health issues.
100 point Bonus question: True or False
withdrawal from certain depressants can cause death.
How long does it take for alcohol to absorb into the body?
Alcohol is absorbed into the bloodstream within 5 to 10 minutes after consumption.
What does the acronym U-P-C-S help identify?
Signs of alcohol poisoning.
C- cold clammy skin
U- unconsciousness
P- puking, particularly when passed out
S- slow or irregular breathing.
How does slowing the central nervous system affect breathing and coordination?
Breathing can slow or stop, and coordination decreases
Share an experience you've had or seen with a depressant drug. More than one person must answer.
What stood out to you the most with that experience?
What are some long-term effects of depressant use?
increased risk of dementia, emotional numbness, increased risk of heart attack and stroke etc.
What are the 3 forms of alcohol?
Ethanol, Isopropyl alcohol and Methanol.
100 point bonus question: which of these 3 is the version found in alcohol people drink?
What are the three steps to take if someone shows signs of alcohol poisoning?
Call 911, place them in recovery position, stay with them.
100 bonus point question: Why do you put someone in recovery position?