Addiction vs. Dependence
What is the definition of addiction?
Addiction is a chronic condition where a person compulsively seeks and uses a substance despite harmful consequences.
What is substance misuse?
Substance misuse is the use of drugs or alcohol in a way that is harmful or outside medical guidelines.
Why is it important to say no to drugs?
Saying no to drugs is important to protect health, avoid addiction, and make responsible life choices.
What percentage of high school students vape?
According to surveys, about 14-20% of high school students report vaping within the past month.
Describe how substance use can affect mental health.
Substance use can lead to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, mood swings, and increased risk of psychiatric disorders.
Why is addiction considered a disease?
Addiction is considered a disease because it alters brain structure and function, affecting impulse control, judgment, and decision-making. However, many consider it a choice or consequences of choices and not a disease.
What are the effects of drug abuse on schools?
Drug abuse negatively impacts schools by increasing absenteeism, lowering academic performance, and creating unsafe learning environments.
Name a way to refuse drugs when offered.
A way to refuse drugs is by confidently saying “No, I don’t use that,” offering an excuse, or suggesting an alternative activity.
Why are young people particularly vulnerable to vaping?
Young people are vulnerable to vaping due to appealing flavors, peer pressure, and nicotine’s highly addictive effects on developing brains.
What are personal consequences of drug misuse?
Personal consequences of drug misuse include health problems, legal trouble, financial difficulties, and damage to personal relationships.
What are some signs of addiction?
Signs of addiction include cravings, withdrawal symptoms, loss of control, neglecting responsibilities, and continued use despite negative consequences.
How does alcohol misuse affect local communities?
Alcohol misuse in communities contributes to drunk driving accidents, increased emergency medical cases, and higher crime rates.
List three alternatives to using substances.
Varied. Example: Three alternatives to substance use include engaging in sports, pursuing hobbies like music or art, and practicing mindfulness or stress-relief techniques.
What data shows the increase in vaping among teens?
Data from health organizations show a rise in teen vaping, with studies indicating that over 20% of high school students have vaped in the past year (2024-2025).
How can substance use affect family relationships?
Substance use can negatively impact family relationships by causing trust issues, financial problems, and emotional distress.
Describe how addictive behavior manifests in individuals.
Addictive behavior manifests as compulsive substance seeking, inability to control use, neglect of responsibilities, withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite harm.
How does substance abuse impact community safety?
Substance abuse can lead to increased crime, impaired driving incidents, homelessness, and strained community resources like hospitals and police.
How can making healthy choices influence peers?
Making healthy choices can positively influence peers by setting a good example, encouraging positive behaviors, and reducing peer pressure to use substances.
What is fentanyl, and why is it a concern?
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid 50-100 times stronger than morphine, often mixed into drugs without users knowing, leading to fatal overdoses.
What are some social consequences of substance misuse?
Social consequences of substance misuse include damaged relationships, isolation, legal troubles, and decreased opportunities for education and employment.
What is the difference between addiction and dependence?
Addiction is a chronic brain disorder characterized by compulsive substance use despite negative consequences, while dependence is a physical reliance on a substance, where withdrawal symptoms occur if use is stopped.
How does substance misuse affect communities?
Substance misuse affects communities by increasing crime, overloading healthcare systems, straining law enforcement, and reducing workplace productivity.
What are some benefits of not using drugs?
Benefits of not using drugs include better physical and mental health, stronger relationships, financial stability, and a lower risk of legal trouble.
What is the trend of opioid use in recent years?
In recent years, opioid use has declined slightly due to awareness campaigns, but fentanyl-related overdoses have sharply increased.
What are the economic impacts of substance abuse on families?
The economic impact of substance abuse on families includes medical bills, job loss, financial strain, and potential legal costs.