Cardinal Ambrozic CSS Substance Use and Abuse-1

What is a Drug? A drug is any substance that can be used to modify a chemical process in the body (eg. treat an illness, relieve a symptom, enhance a performance/ability) OR to alter a person’s mental (think), emotional (feel), or physical (act) state. A drug can be ingested, inhaled, or injected. The word “drug” is derived from the Dutch/German word “droog” which means “dry”, since most drugs were dried plant parts.

Why teens DON’T use drugs: Brainstorm……. Why teens DO use drugs:

Factors that Influence Attitudes toward Drugs…

The Continuum of Drug Use The continuum of drug use is a way of measuring your potential drug use and the risks associated with it. There are different levels of drug use, and each has a certain level of risk. There is no automatic progression from stage to stage. Patterns of use can be influenced by many environmental factors (eg. peers, family, media, etc.)

Non-use: Never used a drug. Zero risk. Experimental Use: Use is once or more due to curiosity or peer pressure. Low risk since may not occur again. Social /Occasional Use: Use is ongoing with moderate consumption, usually confined to special occasions (eg. holidays, parties, etc.). Low to moderate depending on drug and method of use. Binge Use: Use of a large amount at one time. High risk of harm. Frequent/Regular /Heavy Use: Use has an ongoing, predictable pattern. Leads to problems in one or more areas of person’s life. High risk of permanent harm. Dependent Use: Use is compulsive and excessive that continues despite adverse consequences to life. User feels a physical and psychological need. High risk of permanent harm.

Drug Use vs Abuse Drug Use the use of a drug for a specific purpose (eg. a sedative for surgery, Advil for relieving a headache) Drug Abuse the inappropriate or illegal use of a drug (even painkillers – Advil – can be abused)

Drug Dependence (Addiction) Someone is said to have a drug dependence problem when they cannot stop using a substance. This compulsive use of a substance continues even in the face of growing problems in one’s life (eg. work, family, legal troubles). There are two main types of dependence:  Physical Dependence - withdrawal leads to physical symptoms (eg. the shakes, cravings, depression)  Psychological Dependence - overwhelming desire for drug and belief that life depends on it and they have no choice in taking it

What are some of the RISKS/CONSEQUENCES of Drug Use and Abuse? Brainstorm……. 