7.ATOD.2

What does this standard mean a child will know and be able to do?

7.ATOD.2.1 Use communication strategies to avoid the consequences of tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use.
The ability to develop and practice effective interpersonal communication skills is critical to the success in refusing the use of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs and the subsequent consequences associated with substance abuse. Effective interpersonal communication skills include the use of “I” messages, effective listening skills, use of assertive verbal and non-verbal (body language) communication, use of appropriate tone, and demonstration of respect for others. When the elements of communication skills are practiced in well-constructed and realistic scenarios with the opportunity for feedback from the instructor and others, students increase the likelihood of utilizing these skills when needed in the future and recalling prepared responses which may help them act on their values and planned intentions to live a lifestyle free of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.
 * The student will list strategies and techniques for assertive refusal to use substances.
 * The student will demonstrate effective communication skills when avoiding consequences associated with tobacco, alcohol, and drug use.

7.ATOD.2.2 Design methods of avoiding the consequences of tobacco, including addiction, by seeking resources for prevention and cessation.
Nicotene is an addictive drug found in all tobacco products. Individuals can avoid any addiction-related problems by simply opting not to use any type of tobacco product. Listing all of the reasons why they do not want to use tobacco can help students recognize the risks associated with tobacco and provide a foundation for refusing tobacco. Health behavior contracts, which include no tobacco use, are helpful when avoiding negative effects caused by nicotine. People who regularly use tobacco products develop a tolerance to nicotine and may use more to feel the intended effects creating nicotine addiction.

Tobacco users addicted to nicotine must go through withdrawal symptoms in order to quit using tobacco. The body begins to immediately repair itself once a person stops using tobacco; however, quitting takes planning and effort. There are many resources that can be accessed when quitting tobacco. Physicians and other medical providers can help develop a plan for quitting, provide cessation counseling, and may prescribe a low-dose nicotine patch or chewing gum (nicotine replacement therapy) to help people cope with cravings for nicotine as they withdraw from this drug. Users will gradually eliminate the need for nicotine and all tobacco products. Tobacco cessation programs can help people stop using tobacco and stay quit. Quitline NC http://www.quitlinenc.com/ or 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) offers free expert support to those trying to quit. A web coach is available to those 13 and older and interested in accessing a web-based cessation program offered through QuitlineNC.
 * The student will identify methods that help prevent tobacco use.
 * The student will identify resources available for helping individuals addicted to nicotine quit using tobacco.
 * The student will describe how to access available tobacco cessation resources.
 * The student will advocate to others the benefits of tobacco prevention and tobacco cessation programs.