Brain Effects
Which part of the brain helps with decision-making and impulse control?
The prefrontal cortex
Which organ processes most alcohol in the body?
The liver.
Coffee can instantly "sober up" someone who is intoxicated by alcohol.
What is one common short-term and one common long-term effect of alcohol?
Short-term: Reduced coordination, Slower reaction time, Impaired judgement
Long-term: Liver disease, Heart problems, Memory problems, Increased cancer risk
What does "tolerance" mean?
Needing more of a substance to achieve the same effect.
What neurotransmitter is commonly associated with pleasure and reward?
Dopamine.
What body system is slowed by opioids?
The respiratory system (breathing).
A person can become dependent on a substance without intending to.
True (fact)
What stimulant effect might occur after using cocain or methamphetamine?
Increased energy
Increased heart rate
Increased alertness
increased confidence
What is withdrawal?
Physical and/or psychological symptoms that occur when use is reduced or stopped after regular use.
Why can repeated substance use make natural rewards (hobbies, relationships, goals, etc.) feel less satisfying?
The brain adapts to high dopamine levels, making everyday activities feel less rewarding.
Name two body systems that can be affected by nictoine.
Cardiovascular system (heart)
Respiratory system (lungs)
Nervous system (movement and thoughts)
Addiction affects brain function, not just behavior
True (fact)
Why might driving become more dangerous after using cannabis?
Slower reaction time, reduced attention, altered perception, and impaired coordination.
Name three common withdrawal symptoms.
Anxiety, sweating, nausea, shaking, insomnia, irritability, etc.
Which two brain areas work together when someone experiences a strong craving: one invovled in emotions and one involved in memory?
The amygdala and hippocampus.
The amygdala attaches emotional significance to experiences, while the hippocampus stores memories associated with substance use. Together they can trigger cravings when someone encounters reminders of past use.
Why are stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine particularly risky for the heart?
They can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and strain on the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and abnormal heart rhythms.
Many young adults assume heart problems only happen later in life, but stimulants can create serious cardiovascular risks at any age
If someone has never experienced withdrawal symptoms, they cannot have a substance use problem.
Myth (false)
Substance use problems exist on a spectrum. Some people may experience significant consequences and loss of control before developing physical dependence.
A substance may make someone feel more relaxed in the short term but increase anxiety and depression symptoms over time. Which commonly used substances can have this effect?
Alcohol, cannabis, opioids, nicotine, and other substances can contribute to this pattern.
The immediate effects of a substance may differ significantly from its long-term impact on mental health.
What is the difference between tolerance and dependence?
Tolerance: The body adapts, requiring more of a substance for the same effect.
Dependence: The body has adapted to the substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms when use stops.
A person can develop tolerance before dependence, and neither automatically means addiction.