Alcohol

What is Alcohol? A drug found in some beverages that slows body functions.

What alcohol does to the body U3U U3U

In the body Heart- heavy drinking leads to high blood pressure & irregular heart beat Liver- alcohol poisons the liver and can lead to diseases Stomach- causes ulcers Brain- alcohol weakens the ability to store, locate and use information Blood vessels- causes them to widen, increasing blood flow

Short Term Effects of Alcohol Blurred vision Slurred speech Nausea and vomiting Slow reaction time

Decision making & Relationships Giving in to peer pressure Communicate poorly with people Experience depression Become violent Drive under the influence

Alcohol & Relationships How can alcohol use effect your relationship with: – Family? – Friends? How can alcohol increase your chance at engaging in risk behaviors?

Why Alcohol Effects People Differently Amount consumed How fast it’s consumed Person’s weight Person’s gender Foods eaten Mood Drugs

Long Term Effects of Alcohol Cancers; liver, stomach, mouth, throat, breast & colon Alcoholism Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

How to Say “NO” to alcohol Use 1. Use a firm, assertive voice 2. Give reasons for saying “no” 3. Make up an excuse 4. Use non verbal behaviors 5. Avoid people involved in risk behaviors