Decisions That Stick

Hello everyone! Welcome back to the Decisions that Stick newsletter, where we're about helping SCOH students make awesome choices that lead to a happier, healthier you. Today's topic is serious and affects us all whether we realize it or not. This newsletter we're talking about substance abuse .

Substances are things people put into their bodies that change how they feel, think, or act. Some substances are medicines that a doctor gives you to help when you are sick. These are used safely and correctly. Other substances are drugs, alcohol, or tobacco that people misuse. When someone uses these things and it hurts their health, their feelings, or their life, it is called substance abuse. For kids and teens, your body and brain are still growing! Putting these substances into your system can cause big problems.

Choosing to stay away from harmful substances is one of the best ways to build a happy, successful life. Here is what substances can hurt:

1. Your Brain: Substances slow down your brain. They make it hard to focus, remember things, and learn in school. They can change your mood and make you feel sad, angry, or confused. When you need to study for a test or learn a new skill, you need your full brain power!
2. Your Body: Drugs and alcohol are like poison to your growing body. They can hurt your heart, your lungs, and your stomach. They make it hard to play sports, run, or feel healthy.
3. Your Goals: Substance abuse can make you stop caring about things you love, like your friends, your family, your hobbies, or your school work. When you choose drugs, you are choosing to lose control over your own future.

Success in school and in life is not a mystery—it comes from making good choices every day.

Think of your life like a garden:

• Good choices (like eating healthy, getting sleep, playing, and saying NO to harmful substances) are like sunshine and water. They help you grow strong and beautiful.
• Bad choices (like substance abuse) are like weeds. They choke out the good things and make it hard for you to grow.

You have the power to decide what goes into your garden!

What people are in your inner circle & outer circle? Who is your #1 (someone you can trust).
What adjustments do you need to make? It is healthy to set boundaries.

Next issue, we'll discuss handling our emotions.

A balanced life—one where you are healthy, focused, and happy—is key to student success. To learn more about how to make choices that will stay with you and help you succeed, check out the "Decisions That Stick" series. This series can help you practice strong decision-making skills that support a balanced, healthy life free from substance abuse.

Read below about Kratom. This substance is available in local gas stations. Be Aware!

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