Substance Use
Triggers & Cravings
Substances 101
Healthy Habits
Why People Use
100

True or false - Addiction changes how the brain works.

True. 

It affects brain areas involved in decision making, motivation, and self-control.

100

What is a "trigger"? 

A person, place, thing, or feeling that makes you want to use.

100

What type/category of drug is alcohol?

A depressant - it slows down the brain and body.

100

True or false - The more healthy habits you do, the faster the brain can heal. 

True. 

The brain can rebuild and form new connections when doing healthy habits. Healthy habits help the brain balance dopamine, the "feel good" chemical", which reduces cravings and improves motivation. They also help give the body with what it needs to heal.

100

True or false - Everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted.

False. 

Not everyone who uses drugs becomes dependent or addicted. And those who do usually don't expect to become dependent/addicted when they first use drugs.

200

What is "withdrawal"?

The unpleasant physical or emotional symptoms that happen when you stop using a substance. 


200

Name 2 common external triggers

People, places, things 

BONUS: What is an external trigger you've experienced?

200

What type of drug is nicotine?

A stimulant.

200

What is 1 healthy habit that helps the brain heal faster?

Sleep, nutrition, physical activity, engaging in hobbies, and social connection.

200

What's 1 common reason people start using substances?

To cope with stress, pain, or emotions.

BONUS: Can you think of other reasons? What reasons did you have for using (hint: they don't have to just be negative)?

300

What is "tolerance"?

When your body needs more of a substance to get the same effect.

300

Name 2 common internal triggers

Emotions/states like stress, sadness, grief, anger, happiness, loneliness, etc. 

BONUS: What is an internal trigger you have experienced?

300

What are 2 short-term effects of marijuana use?

Altered senses, slowed thinking and reaction, impaired short-term memory, euphoria, relaxation/calm, anxiety, paranoia, panic, mood swings, dry mouth, bloodshot eyes, dizziness, increased heart rate, and impulsivity.

BONUS: What are some long-term effects of marijuana use?

300

How many hours of sleep are recommended for adults?

Around 7-9 hours per night.

300

What's 1 social reason people might use?

Peer pressure, growing up around substance use/drinking, rebellion, cultural norms, social acceptance/belonging

400

Name 2 symptoms of withdrawal.

Anxiety, restlessness, irritability, mood swings, cravings, fatigue or trouble sleeping, sweating, chills, body aches, headaches, difficulty concentrating, upset stomach, depression, and low mood.

BONUS: What are the only 2 substances that can have deadly withdrawal symptoms?

400

How long do cravings usually last?

15-30 minutes

They often rise, peak, and fade. 

400

Name 2 parts of body that can be damaged by long-term alcohol use.

Liver, brain, heart, pancreas, digestive system/stomach, immune system, and reproductive system.

400

How long does it take for the brain to become mostly stable after use?

1+ year: risk of relapse decreases and there are long-term improvements in motivation, learning, and decision making. Emotional regulation becomes easier.

400

True or false - Genetics can make someone more likely to develop a substance use problem.

True. Family history can influence risk. 

BONUS: Does everyone with a family history of addiction develop one?

500

True or false - Dependance and addiction are the same thing.

False. Dependence is physical; addiction includes behavior and cravings.

What is an example of dependence vs addiction?

500

What's 1 healthy way to handle a craving?

Distraction, calling someone, deep breathing, or using a coping skill.

BONUS: What is one way you deal with cravings or unpleasant feelings/situations?

500

Name 1 physical problem associated with methamphetamine use.

Tooth decay, skin sores, weight loss.

500

Why are coping skills important for brain recovery?

It trains the brain to handle stress without using substances.

BONUS: Name some coping skills that you can or do use?

500

How can family or cultural norms influence substance use?

Seeing substance use as normal or acceptable makes people more likely to try it.

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