Some may ask, “why does all of this [substance use prevention, underage drinking, youth tobacco use/vaping prevention, etc.] MATTER?”. Our response… BRAIN MATTER! As a living human being, your BRAIN MATTERS, and substances can hinder the development of your BRAIN MATTER, keeping it from reaching its full potential. One of the main reasons that substances like alcohol and vapes/nicotine are so addictive is due to the dopamine (or “feel good” hormone) hit that one can experience despite the other associated fatal health effects of substance. With teens and their developing brains, these substances and resulting unstable fluctuation dopamine can completely, negatively alter the brain chemistry.
But don’t be dismayed! There are other ways to receive a dopamine hit that last longer than using substances and are way healthier for your mind and body! Check them out below!
