Alcohol Myths and Realities
2011 p.36
What is alcohol Alcohol is a drug contained in beverages
(drinks) like beer, wine, wine coolers, or liquor
Alcohol is absorbed through the walls of the stomach and intestines, directly into the bloodstream, then to the brain
Alcohol is a depressant and slows down brain activity
What percentage of Americans drink alcohol? Guess?
Patterns of drinking Abstinence-Don’t drink
at all Ritual drinkers-
Sacrament Social Drinking-
During parties Compulsive or
problem drinkers
Problem behaviors associated with alcohol use…..
D.U.I. Fights Alcoholism Liver damage
What does a small amount of alcohol do? Slows down the ability
to think clearly and make decisions
Causes people to feel more daring than usual and take risks
What does a large amount of alcohol do
Slows down the brain and nervous system
Causes dizziness Decreases
coordination Decreases reaction
time
A large amount of alcohol makes it hard to:
Walk
Speak
Stay awake
A large amount of alcohol can also Cause you to pass out
Other Effects Fighting Arguing Violence Loud Talking Silliness Obnoxious Behavior
Reasons not to drink Don’t like the taste Don’t like being drunk Don’t want to get fat Goes against family values
Other reasons not to drink Goes against religious values It’s illegal Need to stay in shape for sports Don’t want to look stupid or foolish Drinking isn’t cool Want to stay in control Want to think clearly
Myths vs. Reality
Myth: The best way to get “high” is to drink or take drugs
Reality: Alcohol and drugs produce a temporary “high”, followed by a Down peroid
Better ways to get high Exercise Sports Dance Music Art Achievement Prayer Friendship
Myths vs. Realities part II
Myth: it takes a real tough guy to hold a lot of alcohol
Reality: Tollerance increases over time as with all Drugs