Alcohol and Drug Abuse in Teens: Overview
Alcohol:
Since alcohol is the most readily accessible and commonly abused drug in the United States, the first portion of this unit will provide students with a detailed examination of information regarding alcohol, including pertinent terminology, an overview of the different types of alcohol, the effect it has on bodies which are still growing, and warning signs of use, abuse, and addiction.
What is alcohol? Simply put, alcohol is a depressant which acts upon the central nervous system by slowing heart rate, respiration, and other body functions. The active ingredient in any alcoholic beverage is ethyl alcohol, or ethanol. Ethyl alcohol causes side effects when it is ingested. For instance, small amounts of alcohol will produce feelings of well-being and relaxation. The ingestion of a large amount, however, is toxic to the human body and can lead to sedation, unconsciousness, and even death.
