Minds On
How alcohol affects the brain
There are many harmful short- and long-term effects of using alcohol. These effects can be mentally, physically, and financially damaging.
Press ‘Learn More’ to access descriptions of both short- and long-term effects.
Short-term effects are used to describe things that will last for a short period of time.
Long-term effects are used to describe things that occur over or involving a relatively long period of time.
Sort through some short- and long-term effects of using alcohol in the activity below. Move your selections into either the short or long term effects categories. You may then check your answers after you're done.
Complete the Short- and Long-Term Effects Chart in your notebook or using the following fillable and printable document. If you would like, you can use speech-to-text or audio recording tools to record your thoughts.
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access Short- and Long-Term Effects and Sorting Chart.
Press the ‘Activity’ button to access Short- and Long-Term Effects Chart.
| Short-term effects | Long-term effects |
|---|---|
Press ‘Answers’ to check your work.
| Short-term effects | Long-term effects |
|---|---|
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Action
What is alcohol?
Alcohol is a flammable liquid that is produced through a process called fermentation. Alcohol is a depressant drug. This means that it slows down activity of the central nervous system and the messages going between the brain and the body. Alcohol impairs the brain’s activity, which is why when someone is drunk or impaired, they act differently than when they are sober.
Did You Know?
It affects everyone differently
Did you know that everyone reacts differently to alcohol? Females tend to have a lower tolerance to alcohol than males, because they have less water to absorb the alcohol in their body. Alcohol consumption is especially dangerous to teens and younger kids as the overall weight of an individual plays a role in their tolerance level. The smaller a person is, the quicker their body will absorb the alcohol, which can be extremely dangerous and potentially lethal.
What are the impacts?
Reflect back on the list of short- and long-term effects you sorted in the Minds On section. Identify what you feel are the five most dangerous short-term effects, and five most harmful long-term effects of using alcohol.
Record your response using a method of your choice. You could present your information as an infographic, as a poster, a chart, or using any method of your choice.
Consolidation
Handling peer pressure
Peer pressure can often lead to poor decision making, especially regarding alcohol. However, being prepared to handle a tempting or pressure-filled situation will allow you to stay true to your values.
Ways to say no!
Here are four techniques that you could use to refuse someone who is offering you alcohol.
- Give a reason for saying “NO.” Provide a reason as to why you are refusing the alcohol.
- Display confident body language. Be confident in who you are, your words and your body language.
- Show concern for them. Your concern about the other person’s safety and well-being may change their mind about their actions.
- Get out of the situation. If the situation is becoming dangerous or uncomfortable, leave. Your safety is most important.
Reflection
As you read through these descriptions, which sentence best describes how you are feeling about your understanding of this learning activity? Press the button that is beside this sentence.
I feel…
Now, record your ideas using a voice recorder, speech-to-text, or writing tool.