Tobacco and Vaping
What is the addictive chemical found in cigarettes and vapes?
Nicotine
What is the term for a drug that slows down the brain and body?
Depressant
T or F: Peer pressure can be both positive and negative.
True
What chemical in the brain makes people feel pleasure and is affected by drugs?
Dopamine
T or F: Exercising can help reduce stress and improve mood
True
T or F: Vaping is just flavored water vapor.
False - it contains harmful chemicals and nicotine
What is the main reason prescription drugs can be dangerous?
They can be addictive and harmful if misused
What is one simple way to say no if someone offers you drugs?
Say "no thanks," give a reason/excuse, walk away, etc.
T or F: Addiction is just a bad habit that can be easily stopped.
False - it's a disease that changes the brain
Name one healthy alternative to using drugs when stressed.
Exercise, art, music, talking to a friend, deep breathing, etc.
What part of the body does smoking and vaping damage the most?
Lungs and heart
What illegal drug is often called "meth" for short?
Methamphetamine
What is "indirect peer pressure"?
When no one says anything to you, but you feel pressure to fit in based on what others are doing.
Seeing friends post about vaping on social media and feeling the urge to try it
What does "tolerance" mean in relation to drug use?
When the body needs more of a drug to feel the same effect
What part of the body releases "feel-good" chemicals when we exercise?
Brain-releases endorphins
Name two long-term effects of smoking.
Lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, blockages in veins and arteries, impaired immune function, etc.
T or F: Over-the-Counter drugs are always safe to take in any amount
False - taking too much can be harmful or deadly
What is peer pressure?
The influence from friends or people of the same age to behave in a certain way
What is the difference between physical dependence and addiction?
Dependence is when the body needs the drug; addiction is when a person loses control over drug use
What is one way schools and communities help prevent drug use?
Education programs, clubs, after-school activities, counseling services, etc.
How does nicotine affect the brain of a teenager?
It can interfere with brain development, leading to memory, attention, and learning problems
What part of the brain is most affected by drug use in teenagers?
Prefrontal cortex - responsible for decision-making and impulse control
What is the "mental rehearsal" technique?
Technique where you plan your response to peer pressure ahead of time so you’re ready in the moment
Name two risk factors that make someone more likely to develop an addiction.
Genetics, stress, peer pressure, trauma, etc.
What is a strategy to avoid environments where drug use might be present?
Planning ahead, choosing supportive friends, attending drug-free events, or having a prepared excuse to leave.