Health / Unit 6: Substance Use Prevention
6.6 Refusal and Getting Help
Notes
Prevention works best when you plan ahead.
- Refusal strategies: say a clear no, suggest another activity, leave, blame a rule ("I'm on the team and we're tested"), or text a parent for a ride.
- Plan an "out": agree with a trusted adult on a code word you can text to be picked up with no questions.
- Choose friends and activities that support your goals. Sports, clubs, art and volunteering are protective.
- Warning signs that someone may need help: changes in friends, grades, sleep or mood, secrecy, losing interest in activities.
- Treatment works. Help includes doctors, counselors, support groups and treatment programs. Addiction is treatable.
- If you or a friend is using substances, talk to a trusted adult, school counselor or doctor. Telling someone is a caring act.
- Learning what substances really do helps correct the myth that "everyone does it."
Practice
Which is a good refusal strategy?
A clear no with an alternative is effective.
What is a benefit of a "code word" plan with a parent?
A code word is a simple way to get help.
Which statement about treatment is accurate?
Addiction is treatable with support and care.
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