Examples of Substances That Can Lead to Addiction (For Grade 7)

📚 Quick Study Guide

🧪 Addiction: A condition where someone feels a strong need to use a substance, even if it's harmful. 🧠 Brain Changes: Addictive substances change the way the brain works, making it hard to stop using them. 🚭 Common Substances: These include alcohol, nicotine (from tobacco), illegal drugs (like marijuana, cocaine, and heroin), and even some prescription medicines if not used correctly. ⚠️ Physical Dependence: The body adapts to the substance and experiences withdrawal symptoms if the substance is stopped. 📢 Psychological Dependence: The mind craves the substance for its effects, like feeling happy or relaxed. 🤝 Seeking Help: Addiction is treatable with help from doctors, counselors, and support groups. It's important to ask for help if you or someone you know is struggling!

Practice Quiz

1. Which of the following BEST describes addiction?
   1. A strong desire to eat a specific food.
   2. A physical need to exercise every day.
   3. A strong need to use a substance, even if harmful.
   4. A preference for watching TV over reading.
2. How do addictive substances primarily affect the body?
   1. They improve eyesight.
   2. They change the way the brain works.
   3. They strengthen muscles.
   4. They have no effect on the body.
3. Which of these is a common addictive substance?
   1. Water
   2. Vegetables
   3. Nicotine (from tobacco)
   4. Fruits
4. What happens when the body becomes physically dependent on a substance?
   1. The body starts producing the substance itself.
   2. The body experiences withdrawal symptoms if the substance is stopped.
   3. The body becomes immune to the substance.
   4. The body no longer needs food.
5. What is psychological dependence?
   1. The body's need for physical exercise.
   2. The mind's craving for a substance's effects.
   3. A person's fear of heights.
   4. The body's need for sleep.
6. Besides illegal drugs, what else can become addictive?
   1. Healthy foods
   2. Some prescription medicines if not used correctly
   3. Clean water
   4. Regular exercise
7. If someone is struggling with addiction, what is the most important first step?
   1. Ignoring the problem
   2. Asking for help from doctors, counselors, or support groups
   3. Trying to quit alone without any support
   4. Hiding the problem from family and friends