1. SPICE “Spice” is a mix of herbs that produce experiences similar to marijuana (cannabis). Spice mixtures are marketed as “natural,” legal alternatives to marijuana, but labeled “not for human consumption.” They are sold under many names—K2, fake weed, Yucatan Fire, Skunk, Moon Rocks, and others. They contain dried, shredded plant material along with manmade chemicals that cause mind-altering effects

2. H0w many teens abuse spice products? • Spice products are popular among young people; of the illegal drugs most used by high-school seniors, they are second only to marijuana. Easy access and the misunderstanding that Spice products are “natural” and safe have likely contributed to their popularity

3. Spice and how it affects the body • Many Spice users have experiences similar to what they would experience if they used marijuana—relaxed feelings and changes in perception. In some cases, the effects are even stronger than those of marijuana. Some users report effects like extreme anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations. • People who abused Spice and were taken to Poison Control Centers report symptoms like a fast heart rate, vomiting, agitation, confusion, and hallucinations. Spice can also raise blood pressure and cause less blood to flow to the heart. In a few cases, it has been associated with heart attacks. People who use Spice a lot may experience withdrawal and addiction symptoms.

4. Additional facts on spice • •Synthetic cannabinoids in herbal incense products were first detected in the United States in November 2008, by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) forensic laboratory. These products were first encountered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. • •According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers, 2,906 calls relating to human exposure to synthetic marijuana were received in 2010. Twice that number (6,959) were received in 2011, and 639 had been received as of January 2012 (see chart at right).

5. Character traits • Self discipline-Demonstrating hard work and commitment to purpose regulating yourself for improvement • Respect- being dependable in carrying out obligations and duties; showing reliability and consistency in words and conduct being accountable for your own actions and being committed to active involvement in your community

6. Prevention skills • http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AczbZVWHMIw • Fear -most teens that use drugs are pressured into it, in the fear of being looked at as not popular or uncool so they choose to use substances. They use it because they don’t want to let their friends down or be looked at as an outsider. But really choosing not to use the drug makes them the strongest out of the bunch because they have self respect and perseverance for themselves…..