Tween 12 & 20

TEEN WONDERS IF ALCOHOL IS A DRUG

Mr. Wallace: I've read that alcohol is a drug. I have never taken an
illegal drug, but I have consumed a little alcohol. Does this mean I'm a
druggie? I don't think so! There is a huge difference between drugs and
alcohol.
Josh, Sidney Ohio

Josh: The term "druggie" is intended to identify those who use illegal
drugs, so those who drink alcohol only would not be included in this term.
Because alcohol is widely advertised and is legally available to those who
are 21 and older, many people do not think of it as a drug. They believe
that drugs are either medicines or illegal substances. But alcohol is
indeed a drug, which is defined as any substance used for the purpose of
altering the body or mind in some way. Alcohol does both.

The fact is, alcohol is a chemical that slows down(depresses) the central
nervous system and alters the functioning of both the mind and the body,
and, is the most used and abused drug in the world. since you have
"consumed a little alcohol" in your young life, you are well aware of its
power. You will be doing yourself a huge favor if the last time you
consumed alcohol was, indeed, the last time. Forever.