What is Addiction?
What is an addiction?
An addiction is when a person relies on a substance or behaviour, even though they may be causing harm to themselves and others.
When a person is addicted to a substance or behaviour, they may find it difficult to stop using or engaging in that behavior, even if it is causing negative consequences in their life.
TRUE OR FALSE? People can only get addicted to substances, not behaviours
FALSE. Certain behaviours can be just as addictive as substances (if not more).
Name two ways that an addiction can affect someone's brain (or thought process). You get 50 points for each, up to a maximum of 100 points.
An addiction can have a negative effect on your brain and can lead to problems with:
• Memory – Prolonged use of numerous drugs causes memory problems
• Decision Making – When under the influence of drugs, people make poor decisions
• Emotional Control – Using drugs can change our limbic system, which is responsible for processing our emotions
Why is it important to learn about addiction at a young age?
Learning about addiction at a young age helps kids understand the risks of certain behaviors and substances. It encourages healthy habits, builds empathy for others, and helps them make smarter decisions. It also gives them the tools to support friends or family who may need help.
TRUE OR FALSE? People who suffer from addictions are bad people
FALSE. Addiction makes it hard to stop, even when someone wants to. They need support, not judgment.
Name four substances and/or behaviours that people can become addicted to. You get 50 points for each one you can name, up to a maximum of 200 points.
TRUE OR FALSE? Addiction can lead to certain mental health conditions.
TRUE. Addiction mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Name four people you could talk to if you’re worried about addiction (for you or a friend). You get 50 points for each, up to a maximum of 200 points.
Which part of the body does addiction affect the most?
Addiction mostly affects the brain, especially areas that control memory and emotions
TRUE OR FALSE (or both)? If a certain substance or behaviour may cause an addiction, you should completely avoid it in order to prevent the possibility of developing that addiction
BOTH. Many things, like medicine or video games, can be safe and helpful when used responsibly.
However, some should always be avoided — like non-prescription drugs. These are dangerous, addictive, and harmful, even with small use.
The key is knowing what’s safe, using things in healthy ways, and completely avoiding things that are unsafe from the start.
TRUE OR FALSE? Addictions only affect the people who suffer from the addiction. Explain why or why not.
FALSE. Addictions affect them, but can also affect people close to them, such as family members and friends.
List three reasons why it might be hard for someone to ask for help with an addiction. You get 100 points for each, up to a maximum of 300 points.
Is addiction considered to be a disease or a bad habit?
Addiction is a disease that impacts the way the brain works.
State four reasons why someone might start using or doing something that later becomes an addiction. You get 100 points for each, up to a maximum of 400 points.
List four specific problems an addiction can cause in someone's life. (Ex. think about how it could affect them at home, at school, at work, or when dealing with family and friends).
You get 100 points for each, up to a maximum of 400 points.
What percentage of Canadians do you think will experience an addiction in their life?
You will get the points if you are within 20%.
About 21% of Canadians will experience an addiction in their life.