Substance Smarts
This is a substance that can change how the brain or body functions
What is a drug or substance that affects the brain or body?
This addictive substance is commonly found in cigarettes and many vaping products.
What is nicotine?
Having a trusted adult to talk to is an example of this.
What is a protective factor?
This is influence from other people to act or think a certain way.
What is peer pressure?
Exercise, music, deep breathing, and talking to someone are examples of this.
What is healthy coping?
This happens when someone uses a substance in a way that is unsafe or not as directed
What is substance misuse
This organ helps control memory, decision-making, emotions, and behavior.
What is the brain?
Friends who pressure someone to vape or drink can be an example of this.
What is a risk factor or negative peer influence?
This skill involves clearly saying no to an unsafe offer.
What is a refusal skill?
Using substances to avoid dealing with stress is an example of this type of coping.
What is unhealthy coping?
Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, and some prescription medications can affect these two things.
What are the brain and body?
Addiction can make it difficult to do this, even when substance use is causing harm.
What is stop or control substance use?
Name one protective factor that can help reduce the risk of substance misuse.
Possible answers include supportive adults, positive friendships, healthy coping skills, school involvement, or accurate health information.
Give one example of a clear refusal statement.
“No thanks.” “I'm not doing that.” “That isn't for me.”
An influencer claims a product “eliminates stress.” Name one thing you should check before believing the claim.
Check whether there is reliable evidence, whether the source is credible, whether the post is sponsored, or whether health experts support the claim.
Taking another person's prescription medication is an example of what?
What is prescription medication misuse?
Repeated substance use can affect the brain's reward system, which plays a role in motivation, learning, and feelings of what?
What are reward or pleasure?
Stress, peer pressure, and easy access to substances can increase this.
What is the risk of substance misuse?
A friend says, “Everyone is vaping.” Give one way to respond without giving in to peer pressure.
Say no clearly, suggest another activity, repeat your decision, or leave the situation.
Name two healthy ways a teenager can manage stress without using substances.
Possible answers include exercise, talking to a trusted adult, deep breathing, journaling, listening to music, or making a plan to manage schoolwork.
Give one reason why prescription medication should only be taken as directed for the person it was prescribed to.
The medication and dose are selected for that person, and taking someone else's medication can cause harmful effects or dangerous interactions.
Why can substance use be especially risky during adolescence?
Because the brain is still developing, including areas involved in judgment, planning, learning, and impulse control.
Explain the difference between a risk factor and a protective factor.
A risk factor increases the likelihood of harm, while a protective factor helps reduce risk and supports healthier decisions.
Why is it helpful to plan a refusal statement before entering a situation where you might feel pressured?
Planning helps you respond confidently, reduces pressure in the moment, and makes it easier to stick to your decision.
A friend has become secretive, is struggling in school, and seems different lately. What is a safe first step you could take to help?
Talk privately and kindly, avoid making accusations, and encourage the friend to talk with a trusted adult or school support person.