Drug Worksheet: Alcohol
1. Where does alcohol come from and how is it used?
2. Alcohol is a type of drug called a depressant. What does this mean?
3 . Why are some of the reasons teens drink?
4. What are some of the short-term effects of drinking?
5. What is intoxication, binge drinking, and alcohol poisoning?
6. What are some signs that someone has a drinking problem?
Answers & Comments
Answer: 1. The type of alcohol in the alcoholic drinks we drink is a chemical called ethanol. To make alcohol, you need to put grains, fruits or vegetables through a process called fermentation (when yeast or bacteria react with the sugars in food - the by-products are ethanol and carbon dioxide).
2. A depressant, or central depressant, is a drug that lowers neurotransmission levels, which is to depress or reduce arousal or stimulation, in various areas of the brain. Depressants are also occasionally referred to as "downers" as they lower the level of arousal when taken. ... Alcohol is a very prominent depressant.
3.Peer Pressure. Teenage years are hard
Teens Want to Feel Grown-Up
Pushing Boundaries.
Teens See Parents Drinking at Home
Self-Medicating
Recognize the Signs of Teen Alcohol Use
4.Slurred speech
Drowsiness
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Upset stomach
Headaches
Breathing difficulties
Distorted vision and hearing
5. A major cause of alcohol poisoning is binge drinking — a pattern of heavy drinking when a male rapidly consumes five or more alcoholic drinks within two hours, or a female rapidly consumes at least four drinks within two hours. An alcohol binge can occur over hours or last up to several days.
6. Experiencing temporary blackouts or short-term memory loss
Exhibiting signs of irritability and extreme mood swings
Making excuses for drinking such as to relax, deal with stress or feel normal
Choosing drinking over other responsibilities and obligations