Drug Use and abuse Lesson 1 “High Risk Behavior”
What is Substance abuse SA is any unnecessary or improper use of chemical substances for non-medical purposes. Illegal drugs or “Street Drugs” are chemicals that people of any age may NOT lawfully manufacture, posses, buy or sell. Illicit Drug use, the use or sale of any substance that is illegal or otherwise NOT permitted.
“To Use or Not to use, That is the Question” Peer Pressure-the influence that people your age have on you. Family members-can help with resistance or can encourage if they also use. Role Models-people you admire and want to imitate. Coaches, athletes, models, actors etc.. Media Messages-TV, Internet, Radio, can send mix messages about drug use. Perceptions-Society’s drug behaviors can be inaccurate (“but everyone is doing it”) % 13 year olds had NOT used drugs.
Consequences of Drugs use Physical Consequences Harm to the Brain, heart, lungs, and other vital organs. Overdose-strong or fatal reaction to taking large amounts of a drug. -Injection of drugs can lead to Hepatitis B & HIV.
More Consequences of Drugs use Mental/Emotional Drugs cloud reasoning and thinking, lose of control of behavior. Loss of positive beliefs, values, and ideals once used to guide conduct.
More Consequences of Drugs use Social Consequences. Drug use can and does have negative effects on society, relationships with, friends, family, co-workers, school. It also is a major factor in crimes, suicides, and injuries.
Understanding Addiction As in alcohol addiction, drugs addiction has many of the same characteristics. Tolerance-Abuser needs more and more to get the same effect. Psychological dependence-a person believes they need the drug in order to function (mind is addicted). Physiological dependence-the user has a chemical need for the drug (body is addicted).
Discussion Groups List 3 costs to society due to drug use Give examples on how they directly affect YOU! Why do heavy drug users have such a hard time quitting or achieving long term goals of being drug free.