7TH GRADE DRUG UNITLESSON #2

Alcohol

Alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant drug. It has wide ranging effects on the body.

Brain/Central Nervous System

Depressant AnestheticCreates feeling of mild & pleasant stimulationAffects thinking, judgement, & reasoningBreathing and reflexes impairedHeavy drinking can cause brain to atrophy

(breakdown)Over time brain/nervous system become less

sensitive

Stomach

Alcohol absorbed quickly from stomach to bloodstream

Amount of food in stomach determines effect of alcohol

Alcohol causes stomach to make acidChronic drinking can cause stomach ulcers or

cancer of the stomach, mouth, tongue and esophagus

Lungs

Alcohol is exhaled when you breath causing your breath to smell

High alcohol levels can cause breathing to stop, unconsciousness, coma or death

Liver

Alcohol is metabolized in the liverTakes two hours for the body to fully

metabolize one drinkAlcoholics may have fat deposit on their liver

which results in cirrhosis

Small Intestine

Nearly all alcohol is absorbed from small intestine into bloodstream

Cardiovascular & Circulatory Systems

Alcohol opens up blood vessels causing drinkers to feel warm even though their body temperature is dropping

Reproductive System

Alcohol decreases production of testosteroneDrinking during pregnancy can cause birth

defects and mental retardation

Kidneys

Alcohol increases the production of urine from the kidneys

Drinking alcohol after exercising or in hot weather can increase risk of dehydration

Seven Factors Affecting Alcohol’s Impact

Type of drink (beer, wine, whiskey, etc.)How quickly consumedAmount of food in stomachBody weight or buildMental/emotional stateSurroundingsPhysical tolerance

REFUSAL SKILLS

Act confidentHave a friend alongUse humorMake an excusePlan your exitSuggest an alternativeDelay your decision