UK Researcher Sets Record the Straight on Effects of Using Marijuana
In states where marijuana is up for legalization for either medical or recreational use, it can be very difficult to decipher the truth about this drug. Those in favor of increased use describe the harmless, even therapeutic nature of the drug. Those against tell a different tale. A new study from the UK shines a bright new light directly on the damage that results from use of this drug.
The study was published by Dr. Wayne Hall of King’s College London, who has carried out this study over a twenty-year period. He reports that this drug is, indeed, addictive and that one in six teens who regularly smoke this drug become dependent on it.
He further reports:
- Those using marijuana have twice the risk of developing a psychotic disorder
- They do worse in school
- Adolescents who use the drug suffer intellectual impairment
- A driver who has smoked pot has twice the risk of having an accident
- This risk goes up substantially if both marijuana and alcohol were used
- Smoking pot while pregnant reduces the baby’s weight at birth
He also notes that when a person is addicted to marijuana, they do struggle with withdrawal symptoms when they try to get clean, and only about half those who go through conventional treatment stay sober for six months.
It might be overly optimistic to think that this report might put an end to all the controversy about this drug. It’s addictive and damaging so it might be logical to focus on preventing our young people from ever starting to use it. At the same time, those who have become addicted need to find a way out.
Every day on six continents, Narconon rehab centers take in those addicted to marijuana or those who started with pot and then progressed to another drug as so many do. For five decades we have been helping individuals overcome their addiction to marijuana and other drugs.
If you or someone you care about is having problems due to marijuana use or the use of any drug or alcohol, call us and find out what makes our program innovative, healthy and successful.
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