1. Alcohol

2. What is alcohol?
It is classed as a depressant, meaning that it slows down vital functions

3. Why do teens choose to use alcohol?
Curiosity
Popularity
Too feel grown up
To feel relief from problems
To be fit in
To seem cool

4. What are some short term effects from alcohol use?
Slurred speech
Drowsiness
Vomiting 
Diarrhea
Upset stomach
Headaches
Breathing difficulties 
Distorted vision and hearing 
Impaired judgment 
Decreased perception and coordination 
Unconsciousness 
Anemia (loss of red blood cells) 
Coma
Blackouts

5. What are some long term effects of alcohol use?
High blood pressure, stroke, and other heart-related diseases 
Liver disease 
Nerve damage 
Permanent damage to the brain 
Vitamin B1 deficiency, which can lead to a disorder characterized by amnesia, apathy and disorientation 
Ulcers 
Gastritis (inflammation of stomach walls) 
Malnutrition 
Cancer of the mouth and throat

6. Can you get addicted to alcohol?
Yes!!
The consumption of alcohol increases the release rate of dopamine, thereby inducing feelings of happiness and euphoria.
Alcohol consumption inhibits glutamate receptor activity, which results in calmness and reduced anxiety.
The feelings of euphoria combined with reduced anxiety create a false sense of security or perceived relief from depression in drinkers.4

7. What are the laws?
Illinois law prohibits the consumption of alcoholic liquor by any person under 21 years of age, which is a Class A Misdemeanor. Penalty: The person under 21 years of age is subject to a minimum $ fine.
A person under the age of 21 is prohibited from possessing alcoholic beverages on the street, highway or any public place or in any place open to the public. Violation of this provision is a Class A Misdemeanor. Penalty: Underage person is subject to a minimum $ fine and (if applicable) additional enhanced penalties for illegal transportation of open liquor.
Illinois law prohibits persons under 21 years of age from purchasing, possessing, consuming and/or accepting a gift of alcoholic beverages, except under the direct supervision and approval of the parent(s) in the privacy of a home or during a religious ceremony. Violation of this provision is a Class A Misdemeanor. Penalty: The person under 21 years of age is subject to a minimum $ fine and 25 hours of community service, preferably as part of an alcohol abuse prevention program.