LESSON 2 ( Symtoms and possible causes of ADHD)

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually

first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have
trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about
what the result will be), or be overly active.

Signs and Symptoms

 daydream a lot
 forget or lose things a lot
 squirm or fidget
 talk too much
 make careless mistakes or take unnecessary risks
 have a hard time resisting temptation
 have trouble taking turns
 have difficulty getting along with others

Types of ADHD

1. Predominantly Inattentive Presentation

- It is hard for the individual to organize or finish a task, to pay attention to details, or to
follow instructions or conversations. The person is easily distracted or forgets details of
daily routines.

2. Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation

- The individual feels restless and has trouble with impulsivity. Someone who is impulsive
may interrupt others a lot, grab things from people, or speak at inappropriate times. It is
hard for the person to wait their turn or listen to directions.

3. Combined Presentation

- Symptoms of the above two types are equally present in the person. Because symptoms
can change over time, the presentation may change over time as well.
Causes of ADHD

scientists are studying other possible causes and risk factors including:

 Brain injury
 Exposure to environmental risks (e.g., lead) during pregnancy or at a young age
 Alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy
 Premature delivery
 Low birth weight

LESSON 10 (Behavioral and pharmacological effects of alcohol and cannabis)

Alcohol chemically known as ethanol, is a psychoactive substance that can have a range of
behavioral and pharmacological effects on the body and mind.

Behavioral effects of alcohol

Alcohol consumption can damage the nervous system, including the brain. Consequently,
alcoholics and chronic heavy drinkers can suffer abnormalities in their mental functioning
and changes in behaviors associated with brain impairment.

Brain structures that most frequently have been implicated in alcohol-related neurological
disorders include parts of the diencephalon.

Alcohol is a depressant, which can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters (chemical

messengers) in your brain and affect your feelings, thoughts and behaviour.

Alcohol affects the part of your brain that controls inhibition, so you may feel relaxed, less
anxious, and more confident after a drink. But these effects quickly wear off. The chemical
changes in your brain can soon lead to more negative feelings, such as anger, depression or
anxiety, regardless of your mood.

Pharmacological effects of alcohol

Alcohol has a range of pharmacological effects on the human body, which can vary
depending on factors such as the amount consumed, individual tolerance, and other
physiological factors.
Some effects

Increased Risk of Accidents and Injuries

Due to its effects on coordination, judgment, and reaction times, alcohol consumption
increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities, particularly when driving or operating
machinery.

Risk of Dependence and Addiction

excessive alcohol consumption can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction. Chronic
alcohol abuse can have serious long-term health consequences, including liver damage,
cardiovascular issues, and neurological damage.