Substances and the Body
True or False: Alcohol is a drug.
True, it affects the brain and body
What does “proper use” of medicine mean?
Using it the intended safe way (right person, right reason, right amount, right time, as directed by label/doctor/guardian).
If you are unsure whether you should take a certain medication, name at least two things you can/should do before deciding.
Examples include: Ask a trusted adult, read the label/directions/warnings, check it’s for you (not someone else’s), talk to a trusted adult, speak to a pharmacist or doctor, don’t take it if you don’t know what it is.
What is a trusted adult? Give two examples.
A trusted adult is someone who helps keep you safe and will listen/support you. Examples: parent/guardian, teacher, principal/VP, counselor, coach, etc.
What body part helps you think, focus, and make decisions, and can be affected by substances?
The brain
What is substance abuse?
Abuse = using it in a harmful/unsafe way on purpose or repeatedly, often leading to problems/negative consequences (a pattern).
True or False: All types of medicine require a prescription from a doctor to use.
False. Over-the-counter medicines like Advil, Tylenol, aspirin do not require a prescription. However, it is still important to always read the label and check with a trusted adult before/when using.
True or False: “If something is natural, it’s always safe.” Explain briefly.
False. Natural things can still be harmful (allergies, strong effects, unsafe amounts, not meant to be eaten/drunk/breathed).
In your own words, what is a “substance”?
Something you can take into your body (eat/drink/breathe in) that can affect how your body or brain works.
What is substance misuse?
Misuse = using a substance/medicine the wrong way (wrong person/amount/reason/not as directed).
A medicine label says: “Take 2 tablets every 6 hours as needed.”
How many total tablets can you safely take in one day?
6 hours x 4 = 24 hours
2 tablets x 4 = 8 tablets
True or False: If something is legal to use, then it is safe for everyone to use. Justify/explain your answer.
False. Legal doesn’t mean safe for everyone. Age rules exist, health conditions differ, it can still be harmful if misused, and safety depends on the person, amount, and situation.
List three things that can influence how strongly a substance (or medicine) affects a person.
Examples include: Dose/amount, body size, age, food in stomach/hydration, mixing with other substances/medicines, allergies/health conditions, sleep/fatigue/stress.
At school, a student has a headache. Their friend offers them a pill and says, “My mom gives me this. She says it is safe for kids.”
Should the student take it? Give two reasons why or why not.
No, the student should not
- They don't know what medicine it is
- They don't have parental consent
- It is not prescribed to them
- They could be allergic to an ingredient in the medication
- Sharing medicine in general is not a safe practice
Two different cold/flu medicines can be unsafe to take close together because…
A) Your body might build immunity to the medicine if you take two kinds
B) They can contain the same active ingredient, so you could accidentally take too much of it
C) Taking two kinds makes your brain “confused” about which one to use
D) The second medicine stops the first one from working
E) They can “fight each other,” so neither one works properly
B) They can contain the same active ingredient, so you could accidentally take too much of it
Why is it important to learn about substance use and abuse when you’re still young? Name two reasons.
Examples include: Build safe habits early, recognize unsafe situations, handle pressure, know how to get help, protect health/learning.