Georgia Teen Health Final Exam: Drugs

Georgia Teen Health Final Exam: Drugs and Adapting

• Drug use among teenagers is a significant public health concern in Georgia, as in other states. Factors include peer pressure, easy access to substances, and mental health issues, contributing to risky behaviors.

• Types of substances used by teenagers vary and include:

  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco (cigarettes, vaping)
  • Marijuana
  • Prescription drugs (obtained illicitly or misused)
  • Illicit drugs (cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine)
  • Inhalants

• Consequences of drug use:

  • Physical health problems (organ damage, respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems)
  • Mental health conditions (anxiety, depression, psychosis)
  • Legal issues (arrests for possession or related crimes)
  • Social problems (relationship difficulties, school issues, delinquency)
  • Addiction (chronic disease with potentially fatal effects)
  • Lower life expectancy.

• Adaptation to challenges:

  • Developing coping mechanisms: Strategies to manage stress, pressure, and emotions without relying on substances.
  • Healthy social relationships: Supportive networks of friends, family, and mentors that provide guidance and help develop life skills.
  • Building resilience: Adapting to challenges, bouncing back from difficult experiences, becoming emotionally and mentally strong.
  • Mental health awareness: Understanding that stress, depression, and other mental health issues can trigger substance use; accessing professional help is essential.
  • Conflict resolution skills: Techniques for peacefully and efficiently addressing conflict.
  • Effective communication skills: Essential for building and maintaining healthy relationships.
  • Setting goals and pursuing dreams: Achieving personal goals and aspirations boosts self-esteem and fulfillment.

• Risk factors for substance use:

  • Individual factors: Mental health issues, stress, negative emotions, loneliness, previous trauma, lack of self-esteem, family history of substance abuse.
  • Family factors: Family conflicts, parental substance abuse, lack of parental supervision, negative family atmosphere, lack of open communication, financial problems.
  • Peer factors: Peer pressure, presence of substance use among friends, perceived social norms around substance use.
  • Environmental factors: Easy access to substances, community issues, lack of recreational opportunities, negative neighborhood influences, availability of substances in the home.

• Protective factors:

  • Family support: Stable families, strong parental figures, open communication, parental monitoring.
  • Positive peer influence: Friends who do not use substances, supportive social groups, positive role models.
  • Participation in extracurricular activities: Involvement in school activities, sports, community projects.
  • Academic success: Sense of achievement in school.
  • Healthy coping mechanisms for stress: Relaxation techniques, exercise, mindfulness.
  • Strong self-esteem and self-efficacy: Belief in one's abilities, self-respect, confidence.
  • Access to support services: Knowing and accessing mental health services, school counseling, and community resources.

• Seeking help: Recognizing substance abuse as a problem and seeking support. Resources include:

  • School counselors
  • Family doctors and therapists
  • Local community centers
  • Georgia's Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD), or similar state/local agencies.

• Important Note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Professional guidance is crucial for addressing personal substance use or mental health challenges.