Consequences of Using (05:55)

FREE PREVIEW

Choosing to use drugs or alcohol can negatively impact friends, family, health, school, and the future. Young people share how using has led to violence, failed relationships, and jail time. Legal consequences include DUI, possession, assault, and felony charges.

Why People Use (03:18)

Young people start using drugs and alcohol to manage problems at school or home, in response to peer pressure, or to follow family models. Self-medication exacerbates existing problems.

Becoming Addicted (03:09)

Risk factors include a family history of addiction, behavioral problems, and mental health conditions. Signs include tolerance, withdrawal, and preoccupation. Addiction is a progressive, chronic, and fatal disease that can be managed.

Chemicals and the Brain (03:01)

Drugs or alcohol can rewire brain to require increasing amounts to feel normal. Changes can be permanent among teenagers with developing brains.

Alcohol and Marijuana (02:26)

Learn about physical, social, and psychological consequences of using drugs. Although perceived to be less dangerous, they can cause significant damage.

Prescription Drugs (02:56)

Young people are increasingly abusing sedatives, psychostimulants, and opioids; hear examples of each. Mixing substances can increase physical danger. Opiates can lead to heroin use.

Synthetic Drugs (02:12)

Despite appearing safer, synthetic drugs can be dangerous. Categories include stimulants, hallucinogens, and cannabinoids. Adverse reactions include seizures and psychosis.

Other Drug Classes (04:16)

Alcohol, marijuana, prescription, and synthetic drugs are the most commonly used drugs among young people. Learn about negative physical and neurological effects of inhalants, stimulants, hallucinogens, opioids, and nicotine.

Choosing Not to Use (04:49)

Students share why they decided not to use drugs or alcohol. Many have seen friends or family members destroyed by addiction and depression. Fewer young people have been using in recent years.

Choosing Your Friends (01:31)

Young people seek others with similar values and mindsets. Students share how they found friends who chose not to experiment or use drugs or alcohol.

Facing Peer Pressure (05:57)

Hear strategies for avoiding using in social situations. Students share how they have fun without drugs or alcohol.

Getting Help (04:38)

Treatment can help addicts manage their disease and live healthy lives. Young people share their experiences in recovery.

Goals and Types of Treatment (02:02)

People in recovery stop using alcohol and drugs, gain an understanding of addiction as a disease, and learn new ways of living and staying sober. Learn about inpatient and outpatient settings.

Triggers and Cravings (02:41)

Treatment teaches how to avoid triggers and manage cravings. Young people in recovery discuss learning to stay sober.

Connecting With Others (01:36)

Young people in recovery discuss how they make friends with other sober people.

Rebuilding Relationships (02:06)

Young people in recovery talk about learning to handle negative emotions without using drugs or alcohol. Treatment is the beginning of a lifelong recovery process.

Credits: Youth and Drugs of Abuse (00:53)

Credits: Youth and Drugs of Abuse