Drugs and Addiction
Why do some kids use drugs?
*Multiple Correct Answers*
(e.g., to fit in, to cope with low self-esteem, to "escape" problems", to rebel against authority, or to seem "more adult-like or grown, was raised around drug usage")
What is withdrawal?
When someone with a dependence on a drug stops using it, they can experience withdrawal symptoms, such as excessive sweating, tremors, panic, difficulty breathing, fatigue, irritability, and flu-like symptoms.
Instead of turning to substances when stressed - what can you do?
- Find a hobby that makes you happy
- Talk to someone
- Utilize a coping skill
You just got your wisdom teeth removed yesterday and your mouth is in a lot of pain today. Is it appropriate to take Advil?
Yes, it is okay to take Advil!
What happens when a frog parks illegally?
They get toad
Addiction is a disease. T or F
TRUE
Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person's brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medicine.
What are some short-term consequences of abusing drugs?
What are the most famous support groups for individuals who struggle with drug and alcohol addiction?
- AA (Alcoholics Anonymous)
- NA (Narcotics Anonymous)
Both help provide support and encouragement for those struggling and assist with keeping the individuals on the right track by attending meetings and assigning sponsors (mentors).
You had a rough day at work so when you get off, you head straight to the bar and drink for the next 3 hours. Was this appropriate?
No!
The individual was drinking to "drink their problems away" If you are 21 years of age then you are legally allowed to drink, however, ask yourself why you are drinking and you may be able to identify if you are appropriately or inappropriately drinking.
What kind of band never plays music?
A rubber band
What are some signs that someone may be using drugs?
What are some physical consequences of substance abuse?
Drug addiction can have serious long-term physical consequences, including major organ damage and even death.
Why would a crisis response plan be helpful for someone who struggles with addiction or someone who is trying to get clean from addiction?
In case the individual is having a hard day and is in need of extra support or assistance so they do not relapse or turn to substances again, they can refer to their crisis response plan and find a list of individuals they feel supported by and can contact for help, safe places for them to go, and coping skills they can utilize in the meantime while they wait on support.
You're at a party and your best friend decides to try smoking marijuana for the first time. He asks you to smoke with him. You get nervous because you've never smoked before, but your friend is teasing you about being lame if you don't...so you do. Was this appropriate?
No! That is negative peer pressure.
What can't be used until it's broken?
An egg
Are males or females more likely to develop drug addictions?
Men and women are EQUALLY likely to develop drug addictions. However, men are likelier than women to use illicit drugs, die from a drug overdose, and visit an emergency room for addiction-related health reasons. Meanwhile, women are more susceptible to intense cravings and repeated relapse.
What are some mental effects of abusing substances?
When someone continues to use drugs, their health can deteriorate both psychologically and neurologically. Some of the most common long-term mental effects of drug addiction are:
Demonstrate your favorite way to practice mindfulness.
e.g., meditation, grounding, i spy, yoga, deep breathing, etc.
You went to a concert last night and woke up with a headache because of the loud noise. Would it be appropriate to take Ibuprofen?
Yes, taking Ibuprofen as stated on the bottle is okay to take when you have a headache!
What has many keys but cannot open a door?
A piano
Go to therapy, medication may help, hospitalization for detox if needed, support groups, etc.
Drug addiction is not treatable. T/F?
FALSE
Drug addiction is a treatable, chronic medical disease that involves complex interactions between a person’s environment, brain circuits, genetics, and life experiences.
Name your top 3 favorite healthy distraction coping skills.
e.g., doing puzzles, reading, coloring, journaling, crossword puzzles, listening to music, watching tv/movie, playing video games, playing a sport, etc.)
**2 PARTER**
You have the flu and want to take Nyquil before bed to help sleep and hopefully get rid of some of your symptoms overnight - is this appropriate?
What about if you're just not sleeping well and want to take Nyquil to help?
When you have the flu or are ill - totally appropriate.
If you are not ill and just not sleeping well - not appropriate. Nyquil's sole purpose is to treat cold and flu-like symptoms. If you are struggling with sleeping, talk to your doctor about taking melatonin at bedtime.
I’m fast when I’m thin, and I’m slow when I’m fat. What am I?
A candle