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What is a substance?
What is a substance?
A Substance is any chemical that can affect how the body and brain works.
Examples:
Nicotine (Found in vapes/tobacco)
Alcohol (Wine, Beer etc.)
Marijuana/Cannabis (Plant drugs)
Prescription medications (Opioids-Pain Relievers such as MS Contin and OxyContin)
Other Drugs (Heroin, Cocaine etc.)
Some substances can be safely used when prescribed by doctors, but misuse can cause harm. Taking more dosage on medications than prescribed can cause mental and physical issues.
What is substance misuse?
What is substance misuse?
Substance misuse means using a substance in a way that causes harm.
Examples:
Using someone else’s prescription medication
Take more medication than prescribed (Highly addictive method)
Using substances to cope with stress or emotions
Using substances despite negative effects on health, school, or relationships
What is addiction?
What is addiction?
Addiction is a condition where a person's brain and behavior are affected by repeated substance use, making it difficult to stop even when there are negative consequences.
Important points:
It is a health issue, not a "lack of willpower."
It affects the brain's reward and decision-making systems.
Prevention and support can help people recover.
Why are teenagers more vulnerable?
The teenage brain is still developing.
Important areas:
Prefrontal cortex: Helps with decision-making, planning, and controlling impulses.
Reward system: Helps motivate behavior and can respond strongly to rewarding experiences.
Because development is still happening:
Risk-taking can be more common.
Peer influence can be stronger.
Habits formed during adolescence can affect future health.
Why do teens start using substances?
Why do teens start using substances?
There is usually not one single reason.
Common factors:
Curiosity
Peer pressure
Stress
Wanting to fit in
Trying to cope with emotions
Family or social environment
Lack of accurate information
Protective factors:
Supportive relationships
Sports and activities
Positive goals
Good communication
Access to help
Call or text “988” for suicide and crisis lifeline
How to prevent it?
How to prevent it?
Prevention is not just saying "don't do drugs."
Effective prevention focuses on:
Education
Healthy coping skills
Strong support systems
Positive choices
Knowing where to get help
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