Brain & Body Basics
What part of the brain is primarily affected by drugs, influencing mood and decision-making?
The prefrontal cortex.
What’s one social consequence of heavy substance use?
Damaged relationships, lost trust, or isolation
What is one harm reduction strategy to prevent overdose
Use less and pace yourself
I’m legal for adults in many places, but too much of me can cause blackouts, vomiting, or even stop your breathing. What drug am I?
Alcohol
Sharing needles can transmit HIV and Hepatitis C.
TRUE
Which neurotransmitter is commonly associated with feelings of pleasure and is often targeted by drugs?
Dopamine.
True or False: Mixing alcohol with prescription medications can be dangerous.
True
What is naloxone(Narcan) used for?
To reverse opioid overdoses
I can make you feel energetic and euphoric, but I also increase heart rate, body temperature, and the risk of paranoia or crashing later. Often snorted or smoked. What drug am I
Stimulants
True or False: It's safe to use drugs if you're in a controlled environment.
False.
How long can it take for the adolescent brain to fully develop?
Until around age 25.
What is a major risk of using drugs from an unregulated source?
The drug could be laced with things like fentanyl.
What is a harm reduction strategy to prevent the spread of infections?
Use clean needles and dispose of them safely
I’m prescribed for pain but highly addictive. Illegally, I’m often found laced in fake pills and powders, causing deadly overdoses in tiny amounts.
Fentanyl
True or False: You can’t overdose on cannabis.
False – while rarely fatal, you can experience cannabis toxicity with intense side effects.
Which system in the body is directly affected by depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines?
The central nervous system (CNS).
What is “drug tolerance”?
When your body gets used to a drug, requiring more to get the same effect.
What is the purpose of drug checking services?
To identify the contents of substances to reduce the risk of overdose.
I come from a plant and can be smoked, vaped, or eaten. I may cause relaxation, red eyes, or anxiety, especially in large doses. What drug am I?
cannabis (weed/marijuana)?
True or False: It’s okay to drive a few hours after using substances if you feel “sober.”
False – impairment can last longer than you think, especially with cannabis.
Why are teens and young adults more likely to take risks with substances
The brain's reward system develops before the impulse control system.
Name one reason why youth might experiment with substances.
Peer pressure, curiosity, stress relief, or social bonding.
What is the purpose of substance use education programs?
To provide information and resources to reduce the risks associated with substance use
I alter your sense of reality, time, and emotions. I’m often taken on tabs or soaked paper and can cause visual distortions and trips
Hallucinogens
All people react to substances in the same way.
False – reactions vary based on body, mood, setting, and past use.