Mrs. Noakes
Health 1 -2
Grant High School
The use of a substance for a purpose not
consistent with legal or medical
guidelines.
Ex. Taking more than recommended.
Repeatedly and willfully using a drug in
a way other than prescribed or socially
sanctioned.
Ex. Intentionally & habitually using a drug
for purposes other than it’s prescription.
A physiological or psychological
dependence on a substance or activity.
*Begins as a means to alleviate anxiety.
The Reward Pathway
http://learn.genetics.
utah.edu/content/ad
diction/rewardbehav
ior/
The Reward Pathway
 The reward pathway is an organic means of insuring the
survival of our species. Because we find pleasure in eating,
drinking water, having sex, and nurturing others, those
behaviors are reinforced.
 Adding substances of abuse ALTERS this system.
 Flooding the synapses with additional dopamine or
(sometimes) serotonin eventually decreases the number of
receptors available for those transmitters. This makes it
harder, over time, to feel everyday pleasures.
 Every time a person abuses alcohol or drugs, he or she
strengthens the “wiring” associated with that substance.
Brain Scans:
Genetics of Addiction
 Multiple genes are involved (polygenic). The
interaction of several genes means there is a variability
in how patients respond to treatment.
 Addiction has anywhere from a 50-60% genetic
predisposition.
 Addiction and Recovery states that addiction is 50%
hereditary and 50% poor coping skills.
 Many, many people have come from families with
addiction and overcome the history to lead happy,
productive lives.
Why can substance use be
dangerous in adolescents?
 Dip in dopamine often means an increase in risky
behavior.
 Sensitivity in pre-frontal cortex as it develops. Teens
are honing behaviors that bring them reward as brain
prunes unnecessary neuronal connections.
 The behaviors one chooses can increase RESILIENCY
from substance abuse (protective factor) or the
PROPENSITY to abuse drugs (risk factor).
 Addiction is a lifestyle-related disease.
 This chronic, preventable disease can cost as much as
$300 billion dollars a year (one estimate was $534
billion).
Anonymous Survey
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
I have had at least one drink in the past 30 days.
I have had 5 or more drinks on the same occasion in
the past 30 days.
I have smoked marijuana at least once in the past 30
days.
I have experimented with illicit drugs or the nonmedical use of prescription drugs in the last 30 days.
I have at least one family member who is addicted to
drugs and alcohol.
Survey Results: (all classes)
1. I have had at least one drink in the past 30 days.
Yes = 52%
No = 48%
2. I have had 5 or more drinks on the same occasion in the past 30 days.
Yes = 30%
No =70%
3. I have smoked marijuana at least once in the past 30 days.
Yes = 40%
No = 60%
4. I have experimented with illicit drugs or the non-medical use of prescription
drugs in the last 30 days.
Yes = 24%
No =76%
5. I have at least one family member who is addicted to drugs and alcohol.
Yes = 37%
No = 63%