Substance Use
True or false - Addiction changes how the brain works.
True.
It affects brain areas involved in decision making, motivation, and self-control.
What is a "trigger"?
A person, place, thing, or feeling that makes you want to use.
What type/category of drug is alcohol?
A depressant - it slows down the brain and body.
True or false - The more healthy habits you do, the faster the brain can heal.
True.
The brain can rebuild and form new connections when doing healthy habits. Healthy habits help the brain balance dopamine, the "feel good" chemical", which reduces cravings and improves motivation. They also help give the body with what it needs to heal.
True or false - Everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted.
False.
Not everyone who uses drugs becomes dependent or addicted. And those who do usually don't expect to become dependent/addicted when they first use drugs.
What is "withdrawal"?
The unpleasant physical or emotional symptoms that happen when you stop using a substance.
Name 2 common external triggers
People, places, things
BONUS: What is an external trigger you've experienced?
What type of drug is nicotine?
A stimulant.
What is 1 healthy habit that helps the brain heal faster?
Sleep, nutrition, physical activity, engaging in hobbies, and social connection.
What's 1 common reason people start using substances?
To cope with stress, pain, or emotions.
BONUS: Can you think of other reasons? What reasons did you have for using (hint: they don't have to just be negative)?
What is "tolerance"?
When your body needs more of a substance to get the same effect.
Name 2 common internal triggers
Emotions/states like stress, sadness, grief, anger, happiness, loneliness, etc.
BONUS: What is an internal trigger you have experienced?
What are 2 short-term effects of marijuana use?
Altered senses, slowed thinking and reaction, impaired short-term memory, euphoria, relaxation/calm, anxiety, paranoia, panic, mood swings, dry mouth, bloodshot eyes, dizziness, increased heart rate, and impulsivity.
BONUS: What are some long-term effects of marijuana use?
How many hours of sleep are recommended for adults?
Around 7-9 hours per night.
What's 1 social reason people might use?
Peer pressure, growing up around substance use/drinking, rebellion, cultural norms, social acceptance/belonging
Name 2 symptoms of withdrawal.
Anxiety, restlessness, irritability, mood swings, cravings, fatigue or trouble sleeping, sweating, chills, body aches, headaches, difficulty concentrating, upset stomach, depression, and low mood.
BONUS: What are the only 2 substances that can have deadly withdrawal symptoms?
How long do cravings usually last?
15-30 minutes
They often rise, peak, and fade.
Name 2 parts of body that can be damaged by long-term alcohol use.
Liver, brain, heart, pancreas, digestive system/stomach, immune system, and reproductive system.
How long does it take for the brain to become mostly stable after use?
1+ year: risk of relapse decreases and there are long-term improvements in motivation, learning, and decision making. Emotional regulation becomes easier.
True or false - Genetics can make someone more likely to develop a substance use problem.
True. Family history can influence risk.
BONUS: Does everyone with a family history of addiction develop one?
True or false - Dependance and addiction are the same thing.
False. Dependence is physical; addiction includes behavior and cravings.
What is an example of dependence vs addiction?
What's 1 healthy way to handle a craving?
Distraction, calling someone, deep breathing, or using a coping skill.
BONUS: What is one way you deal with cravings or unpleasant feelings/situations?
Name 1 physical problem associated with methamphetamine use.
Tooth decay, skin sores, weight loss.
Why are coping skills important for brain recovery?
It trains the brain to handle stress without using substances.
BONUS: Name some coping skills that you can or do use?
How can family or cultural norms influence substance use?
Seeing substance use as normal or acceptable makes people more likely to try it.