Understanding Substance Use & Your Brain

Substances are part of the world around us, from everyday caffeine to prescription medications, alcohol, nicotine, marijuana, and illegal drugs. In this unit, participants will explore how these substances can affect the developing teen brain and body and why understanding these effects can help them make informed choices about their health and well-being. Participants will examine why people may choose to use substances, how substance use can create a ripple effect in different areas of life, and the protective factors that support healthy decision-making. They will also learn practical tools, such as HALT, to recognize unmet needs, practice healthy coping strategies, and take care of their developing brains.