Course Description
"Understanding Drug and Alcohol Abuse" is an essential and comprehensive course designed to address the critical issue of substance abuse in our society. This course is not just an educational journey; it's a deep dive into understanding, confronting, and ultimately combating the pervasive challenges of drug and alcohol abuse.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is tailored for a diverse audience – educators, parents, counselors, teenagers, or anyone touched by the impacts of substance abuse. It's particularly beneficial for those seeking to understand the complexities of addiction or looking for practical ways to support someone struggling with these issues.
Course Structure and Content
The course is divided into two main parts, each offering a wealth of knowledge and practical guidance:
-
Understanding Substance Abuse: The first part delves into the history, facts, and dynamics of drug and alcohol abuse. It provides an up-to-date overview of the most commonly abused substances in the U.S., including alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, heroin, methamphetamines, LSD, and various prescription drugs. We'll explore the reasons behind substance abuse, focusing on the psychological, social, and environmental factors that contribute to addiction.
-
Prevention, Intervention, and Recovery: The second part of the course focuses on practical aspects – prevention strategies, intervention techniques, and recovery processes. We'll discuss the signs of substance abuse, how to approach and support someone struggling with addiction, and the journey towards recovery, including rehabilitation and ongoing support.
Current Trends and Statistics
We'll explore how addiction affects various age groups and social classes, with a special focus on adolescents and teenagers – the most vulnerable group.
Special Notes and Personalized Guidance
The course offers personalized notes and guidance for those who might be experiencing substance abuse issues. These special sections, highlighted in rose-colored boxes, provide direct, compassionate, and practical advice for individuals seeking help.
Beyond the Course
While this course offers extensive knowledge, it emphasizes the importance of professional guidance and community support. We'll provide a comprehensive list of resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online forums, to assist those in need of further help.
Key Takeaways
- Comprehensive Understanding: Gain a deep understanding of the causes, effects, and dynamics of drug and alcohol abuse.
- Practical Skills: Learn how to identify signs of substance abuse, effective intervention strategies, and support mechanisms for recovery.
- Empathy and Support: Develop an empathetic understanding of the struggles faced by individuals dealing with addiction, and how to offer meaningful support.
- Resource Access: Gain access to a wealth of resources for further assistance and ongoing support.
Enrollment and Certification
The course offers flexible enrollment options, making it accessible to a wide audience. Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate, acknowledging their commitment to understanding and addressing the challenges of drug and alcohol abuse.
This class is a vital resource for anyone looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of substance abuse. Whether you're personally affected, supporting someone who is, or simply seeking to broaden your knowledge, this course offers the insights, tools, and resources needed to make a meaningful difference in confronting this critical issue in our society. Join us in this important endeavor to build a healthier, more informed community.
- Completely Online
- Self-Paced
- 6 Months to Complete
- 24/7 Availability
- Start Anytime
- PC & Mac Compatible
- Android & iOS Friendly
- Accredited CEUs

Learning Outcomes
- Define the historical factors contributing to substance abuse by identifying key events and trends from ancient to modern times.
- Describe the role of education and counseling in the prevention and intervention of substance abuse, using specific techniques and examples discussed in the course.
- Describe effective community-based strategies that aid in the prevention of drug and alcohol abuse among adolescents
- Identify various pathways through which illegal drugs are distributed globally and describe their impact on youth access
- Describe the impact of substance abuse on brain chemistry, specifically focusing on the role of neurotransmitters such as dopamine.
- Identify the key psychological, environmental, and societal factors contributing to substance abuse, demonstrating an understanding of their interrelations.
- Identify and describe the key neurological changes and behaviors associated with addiction as a chronic disease.
- Recognize and differentiate between the clinical signs of substance abuse and addiction using the criteria provided.
- Describe effective strategies for preventing and addressing substance abuse, focusing on education, treatment, and policy reform.
- Recognize the societal consequences of substance abuse, including economic costs and impacts on families and communities.
- Demonstrate the ability to implement at least two practical strategies for preventing substance abuse in children through active parental involvement and open communication.
- Identify and describe at least three risk and protective factors influencing substance abuse in children, based on the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) guidelines.
- Define key components of effective school-based drug prevention programs, including community involvement and interactive engagement.
- Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
Assessment Guide
Assessment | Points |
---|---|
Lesson 1 Assignment | 2 points |
An Introduction | 1 points |
Lesson 1 Review Exam | 15 points |
Lesson 2 Assignment | 2 points |
Lesson 2 Review Exam | 19 points |
Lesson 3 Review Exam | 10 points |
Lesson 4 Assignment | 2 points |
Lesson 4 Review Exam | 12 points |
Lesson 5: Effects of Use and Dependancy - Potential Social Consequences of Substance Abuse | 10 points |
Lesson 5 Review Exam | 10 points |
Lesson 6 Assignment | 2 points |
Lesson 6: Prevention in the Home | 10 points |
Lesson 6 Review Exam | 10 points |
Lesson 7: Schools | 10 points |
Lesson 7 Review Exam | 13 points |
Lesson 8 Assignment | 2 points |
Lesson 8: Workplace Prevention | 10 points |
Lesson 8 Review Exam | 19 points |
Lesson 9 Review Exam | 18 points |
Lesson 10 Assignment | 2 points |
Lesson 10 Review Exam | 11 points |
Lesson 11 Assignment | 2 points |
Lesson 11: Following Up | 10 points |
The Final Exam | 52 points |
Lesson 11 Review Exam | 10 points |