Do Not End Up in the Junkyard: Avoiding Harmful Substances

Cars in a junkyard
There are a lot of things you can do to keep your body in top-performing condition, from what you do to what you eat. By avoiding substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs, you can help keep your machine out of the junkyard and on the road to reaching your goals.

In this module, you will study substance use and abuse, and learn how they can have consequences on your physical, social, and emotional health. Substance abuse refers to any unnecessary or improper use of a chemical. The abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and drugs can be devastating to you and the people who love you. People suffering from substance abuse have opportunities for physical and psychological help. Remember, unlike a car that you can replace, you only get one body. Keep it out of the junkyard.

Getting Started

Getting StartedBegin the preassessment interactiveHave you ever had to make a decision whether or not to drink, use drugs, or even attend a gathering where others were using those substances? What was your decision? Before you begin learning about avoiding harmful substances, please complete this brief interactivity. You will have a chance to decide what you would do if you were placed in such a scenario.

Key Vocabulary

Glossary
To view the definitions for these key vocabulary terms, visit the course glossary.


Alcoholism Blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
Breathalyzer
Carbon monoxide
Carcinogens
Cirrhosis
Dependence
Depressant
Depressant
Designated driver
Dilate
DUI
Ethanol
Fermentation
Fetal alcohol syndrome
Hallucinogens
Inhalants
Intoxication
Leukoplakia
Narcotic
Nicotine
Nictotine replacements
Overdose
Oxidize
Secondhand smoke
Smokeless tobacco
Steroid
Stimulant
Tar
Tolerance
Zero tolerance