Substance Facts
The legal drinking age in the U.S.
21
Definition of a “false norm”
Believing most people do something when they actually don’t
Define both "risk factor" and "protective factor"
Risk Factor: Something that increases the chance that a person might start using substances or develop other unhealthy behaviors.
Protective Factor: Something that reduces the chance of substance use or other risky behaviors, or helps a person cope in a healthy way.
What are healthy ways to cope and feel good?
Engage in hobbies/activities, maintain healthy habits like proper sleep/nutrition/movement, use mindfulness, seek support if you need help, maintain strong friendships, etc.
Benefits of using refusal skills
Sticking to your values, making healthy decisions, respecting your well-being, forming strong friendships without engaging in substance abuse, long term wellness, etc.
Nicotine is addictive because ...
It changes the brain’s reward system.
Social media posts about substances often seem so positive because ....
They leave out risks and glamorize use
What an example of a protective factor?
Possible Examples: School, extracurriculars, family, friends, etc.
Examples of mindfulness and stress management practices
Breathing exercises, movement, listening to music, creating art, guided meditation, journalling, etc. (Check out our Mindfulness Monday series on Instagram!)
If someone pressures you to use substances, which option is safest?
Say no directly, walk away, change the plan, talk to a trusted adult, etc.
The risks of using marijuana as a teen
It can harm memory, focus, and brain development.
Tactics the vaping industry uses to attract teens
Attractive flavors, advertising and other predatory marketing tactics
What is an example of a risk factor?
Possible Examples: early use, mental health challenges, family history, stressful life events (like moving, divorce, or trauma), bullying or social exclusion, etc.
Warning signs of substance use/mental health & wellness challenges
Symptoms of intoxication (slurred speech, impaired motor function, etc.), lying, avoiding others or becoming withdrawn, giving up activities, changes in mood and affect, etc.
What’s an “A-Team” of trusted adults?
A group of adults you can go to for help and support
The risks of using alcohol, nicotine, or marijuana even once
An early age of first use can increase the likelihood of developing a substance use disorder and negatively impact your developing brain and body.
How does social media influence your decisions about substances?
By making risky behaviors seem normal or fun.
Name one way to build strong support systems
Join clubs, talk to adults, develop friendships with positive peers, limit social media use, ask for help when you need it, etc.
Why should you refer a friend who is struggling to a trusted adult instead of trying to help them by yourself?
Adults have the experience, knowledge, and resources to help safely. Trying to handle serious problems on your own can be risky for both you and your friend. Your friend might need professional support, and you might feel overwhelmed or unsure what to do. Trusted adults can provide guidance, connect your friend to help, and keep everyone safe.
Name two ways to say no that help you keep your friendships strong
Be honest and respectful, offer an alternative activity, use humor, simply say no politely, etc.
Why today’s marijuana is riskier than ever before
Modern marijuana has elevated levels of THC (the addictive psychoactive substance in marijuana) which can be dangerous for your brain and body.
Name one way to check if a social media post about substances is accurate.
Look for reliable sources, check facts, ask adults.
Why are teens more at risk from substance use than adults?
Their brains are still developing.
How can you help a friend while respecting your friendship?
Avoid arguing/judging, set healthy boundaries, seek advice from trusted adults, encourage your friend to seek help from trusted adults, take care of your own health and well being, etc.
Your friends are pressuring you to use a substance at a party, and one friend says, “Everyone’s doing it.” What is the best way to refuse while staying safe and confident?
Use a refusal skill like: “No thanks, I’m good,” walk away, suggest doing something else, avoid arguing or giving in, etc.