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BREAK IT DOWN
When you are stressed out over a big job, break it down into little jobs. Instead of saying, "I have to write a ten-page history paper by next week! I can't do that!" say, "Today and tomorrow I will do my research. The next day I will write an outline. The day after that I will write the first five pages of the first draft, and the day after that I will write the second five. The day after that I will write my second draft. So, the only thing I need to concern myself with at this moment is beginning my research. I can do that."
Nicotine also attaches to neurons (brain cells) that release a neurotransmitter called dopamine.
Nicotine stimulates neurons to release unusually large amounts of dopamine. Dopamine stimulates the brain's pleasure and reward circuit, a group of brain structures called the limbic system involved in appetite, learning memory, and feelings of pleasure.28
In 40 minutes, half the effects of nicotine are gone.
So smokers get the urge to light up for another dose of the drug. After repeated doses of nicotine, the brain changes. To adjust to too much dopamine, the brain cuts production of the neurotransmitter and reduces the number of some receptors. Now, the smoker needs nicotine just to create normal levels of dopamine in his or her brain. Without nicotine, the smoker feels irritable and depressed. The smoker has trained the limbic system to crave tobacco. Think about how you long for a cold drink on a hot day. Or how you want a sandwich when you are hungry. Craving for tobacco is much28 stronger.
YOU DECIDE!
Scenario 3
A group is planning to go to a football game. One of the guys wants to bring his younger brother, but the rest of you (including you) don’t like his brother. You find him to be demanding and spoiled, and you feel as though there are certain things you can’t talk about when he’s around. You don’t want your friend to bring his brother.
What do you do?
How do you feel afterward?
Based on your feelings, the next time you are in a situation similar to this one, you are likely to:
CHOICES AND CONSEQUENCES
Based on your feelings, the next time you are in a situation similar to this one, you are likely to (choose one):
CHOICES AND CONSEQUENCES
Based on your feelings, the next time you are in a situation similar to this one, you are likely to (choose one):
CHOICES AND CONSEQUENCES
After you speak to the teacher later that day and explain that you have some knowledge of the situation, you feel (choose one):
CHOICES AND CONSEQUENCES
After asking a parent or trusted adult what you should do, you feel (choose one):