ALCOHOL HEALTH MR. GARDNER

TERMINOLOGY Addiction – physical need (oxygen, water, food and sleep) Withdrawal – body’s attempt to return to normal when one stops drug use Early stage – cold-like symptoms: watery eyes, runny nose Late stage – flu-like symptoms: cramps, vomiting, diarrhea

TERMINOLOGY Habit – psychological: makes us feel comfortable (writing & sleeping) Tolerance – get used to something; need more to get the same effects Denial – refuse to believe the truth Co-dependency – 1 person loves another (who is addicted to a drug) & the first person will deny the loved one’s problem

ALCOHOL MOST ABUSED DRUG IN HISTORY No barriers (any age, gender, race culture) Estimated – 1 of 10 drinkers of alcohol are alcoholics

TYPES OF DRINKERS Occasional Social Rarely uses Special events (holidays) <2 drinks Social Uses when others use Peer pressure

TYPES OF DRINKERS Problem Alcoholic – damages relationships with: Needs no reason to use Anytime/Anyplace Alcoholic – damages relationships with: Family and friends Occupation/reputation/self-esteem Personality changes Health suffers

TEENAGERS’ REASON FOR USE Peer pressure – fit in with a group Curiosity – need to know Rebellion – show independence Tradition – normal behavior in the home environment

TEENAGERS’ REASON FOR USE Pleasure Like the feeling, the taste & effects Reducers of INHIBITIONS – self control Maturity – an adult activity Convenient – easily obtained