Mrs. Noakes Health 1 -2 Grant High School

The use of a substance for a purpose not consistent with legal or medical guidelines. Ex. Taking more than recommended.

Repeatedly and willfully using a drug in a way other than prescribed or socially sanctioned. Ex. Intentionally & habitually using a drug for purposes other than it’s prescription.

A physiological or psychological dependence on a substance or activity. *Begins as a means to alleviate anxiety.

The Reward Pathway utah.edu/content/ad diction/rewardbehav ior/

The Reward Pathway The reward pathway is an organic means of insuring the survival of our species. Because we find pleasure in eating, drinking water, having sex, and nurturing others, those behaviors are reinforced. Adding substances of abuse ALTERS this system. Flooding the synapses with additional dopamine or (sometimes) serotonin eventually decreases the number of receptors available for those transmitters. This makes it harder, over time, to feel everyday pleasures. Every time a person abuses alcohol or drugs, he or she strengthens the “wiring” associated with that substance.

Brain Scans:

Genetics of Addiction Multiple genes are involved (polygenic). The interaction of several genes means there is a variability in how patients respond to treatment. Addiction has anywhere from a 50-60% genetic predisposition. Addiction and Recovery states that addiction is 50% hereditary and 50% poor coping skills. Many, many people have come from families with addiction and overcome the history to lead happy, productive lives.

Why can substance use be dangerous in adolescents? Dip in dopamine often means an increase in risky behavior. Sensitivity in pre-frontal cortex as it develops. Teens are honing behaviors that bring them reward as brain prunes unnecessary neuronal connections. The behaviors one chooses can increase RESILIENCY from substance abuse (protective factor) or the PROPENSITY to abuse drugs (risk factor).

Addiction is a lifestyle-related disease. This chronic, preventable disease can cost as much as $300 billion dollars a year (one estimate was $534 billion).

Anonymous Survey 1. I have had at least one drink in the past 30 days. 2. I have had 5 or more drinks on the same occasion in the past 30 days. 3. I have smoked marijuana at least once in the past 30 days. 4. I have experimented with illicit drugs or the non- medical use of prescription drugs in the last 30 days. 5. I have at least one family member who is addicted to drugs and alcohol.

Survey Results: (all classes) 1. I have had at least one drink in the past 30 days. Yes = 52%No = 48% 2. I have had 5 or more drinks on the same occasion in the past 30 days. Yes = 30%No =70% 3. I have smoked marijuana at least once in the past 30 days. Yes = 40%No = 60% 4. I have experimented with illicit drugs or the non-medical use of prescription drugs in the last 30 days. Yes = 24%No =76% 5. I have at least one family member who is addicted to drugs and alcohol. Yes = 37%No = 63%