Alcohol’s Effects on the Brain (AlcoholFX) is a free, science-based app that teaches students ages 10 to 12 how alcohol can harm their brains if they drink. Based on lesson plans from SAMHSA’s Reach Out Now Initiative, the app can easily integrate with instruction in 5th- and 6th-grade classrooms. This app is only available on tablets.
AlcoholFX is divided into units that describe the six parts of the brain and how alcohol disrupts its function. Using the app:
- Students can engage in research-based, interactive games that explore brain science while they practice responses to difficult social situations involving alcohol.
- Educators can use science-based lessons plans, resources, and recorded scenarios to help students and parents learn about the dangers of alcohol to the developing brain.
- Parents can learn how alcohol affects their child's brain and can put their child's education and health at risk.
For more information, email SAMHSA at samhsainfo@samhsa.hhs.gov.
You May Also Be Interested In
Hepatitis C/HIV in Native American Populations
This fact sheet highlights the extent of hepatitis C (HCV) and HIV among American Indians and Alaska Natives. It reviews the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for each condition, as well as describes who should get tested for HCV and HIV, and how often.
Incorporating Alcohol Pharmacotherapies Into Medical Practice
This manual guides counselors in the use of medications to help clients achieve abstinence from alcohol. It describes how the medications work and whom may benefit. It also presents the side effects of three FDA-approved medications: acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone.
TIP 37: Substance Abuse Treatment for Persons With HIV/AIDS
This manual helps clinicians improve care for people living with HIV/AIDS and substance use disorder conditions. It discusses prevention, assessment, and treatment of HIV/AIDS. The manual also examines mental illness, integrated services, case management, counseling, ethical and legal issues, and funding sources.
Data-Based Planning for Effective Prevention
This report presents the key principles and core expectations of the State Epidemiological Outcomes Workgroups. The workgroups are designed to use data to inform and enhance state and community decisions regarding substance use and mental illness prevention programs.
Medicaid Handbook: Interface with Behavioral Health Services
This handbook reviews Medicaid and its role in financing services and treatment for mental illness and substance use disorders. It discusses services included in state Medicaid plans and other factors related to Medicaid, such as reimbursement.
TIP 52: Clinical Supervision and Professional Development of the Substance Abuse Counselor
This manual presents guidelines for clinical supervision in the substance use disorder treatment field. It covers supervision methods and models, cultural competence, ethical and legal issues, and performance monitoring. The manual also includes an implementation guide for program administrators. Access the literature review.