ADCO 1020 - Introduction to Drugs and Alcohol

1. Psychoactive Drugs: History and Classification Introduction History of psychoactive drugs Classification of psychoactive drugs
2. Heredity, Environment and Psychoactive Drugs How psychoactive drugs affect us Levels of drug use Theories of addiction Compulsive behavior
3. Uppers General classification General effects Different uppers – cocaine, amphetamines, etc.
4. Downers: Opiates/Opioids and Sedatives–Hypnotics General classification Opiates/opioids Sedative-hypnotics Other problems with depressants
5. Downers Alcohol Overview Absorption, distribution and metabolism Addiction Desired effects, side effects and health
6. All-Arounders History Classification General effects LSD, mushroom, MDMA, other psychedelics
7. Other drugs, other addictions Introduction Other drugs, inhalants, sport drugs Other addictions: compulsive gambling, compulsive shopping, internet addiction
8. Drug Use and Prevention Introduction Prevention Concepts of prevention Prevention methods
9. Treatment Introduction Treatment effectiveness Treatment continuum Principles and goals of treatment Individual and group therapy Cultural /large population Interventions
10. Mental Health and Drugs Introduction Dual diagnosis (co-occurring disorders)

1. List the six levels of alcohol and drug use.
2. Define chemical abuse and dependency as per the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM).
3. Describe how addiction affects the central nervous system.
4. Describe three signs and symptoms of chemical dependency in behavioral, emotional and physical terms.
5. Outline the stages of attitudinal and behavioral change as described in motivational interviewing.
6. Compare and contrast cultural issues as related to chemical dependency.
7. Explain prevention methods of alcohol and drug use.
8. Prepare for an intervention of an addicted person.
9. Describe an intervention of an addicted person.
10. Discuss two theories of addiction.
11. Articulate personal attitudes and beliefs related to drug and alcohol addiction.

Courses and Registration