We’re no strangers to marijuana. In fact, it made the list of the eight most commonly abused drugs in the U.S. It’s the second most abused with some 4.3 million users as of 2012, and it’s more prevalent in our backyard than you think. According to the Charlotte Observer, earlier this year, the Iredell Sheriff’s Office seized almost 50lbs of it in a drug bust in Iredell County! With all the pro-medical marijuana publicity hitting the media, it’s prudent to discuss the harmful, often hidden, effects of marijuana.
Marijuana Rehabilitation Programs
With the nationwide push to make marijuana legal, the current reality of the drug’s impact on our society has grown blurred. According to Narconon International, the use of and addiction to marijuana is most pronounced in our youth. 45 percent of those participating in marijuana rehabilitation programs are under the age of 21. If the demographic is extended to those up to 24 years of age, the percentage rises to 55.
The Dangers of Marijuana Use
Regardless of whether marijuana is used recreationally or for medical purposes, it is still damaging and addictive. The immediate effects of the drug include a distortion of time and space perception accompanied by impaired coordination. If any type of motor vehicle is involved, the risk of an accident is greatly increased.
Short and long-term marijuana use can lead to temporary and chronic thinking or problem-solving impairment. A person’s memory and ability to learn can be adversely changed.
Higher doses and frequent or prolonged use of the drug have been linked to incidents of psychosis and schizophrenia. According to Narconon International, the potency of marijuana has significantly increased over the last two decades. Users who heavily indulge in the drug have been found to suffer damage to their social life, work or career status, academic performance, and cognitive ability.
Addiction Help in Charlotte, NC
The 50lbs of marijuana confiscated in Iredell County at the start of 2015 is a small taste of how this drug has entered our local community. Should North Carolina legalize medical marijuana, we’ll begin to face the issue of de-sensitivity as people begin to think the hazardous effects of the drug can’t be too serious since it’s rapidly becoming legal across the United States.
Marijuana is a harmful and hazardous substance. It’s our responsibility to educate our youth about its hidden dangers and help them make smart choices.
If you or someone you know is abusing or addicted to marijuana, we can help. We offer a full range of assistance from substance abuse treatment to Drug Education School for those facing a first-time drug-related charge.
As we partner together with users in recovery, parents and mentors who want to make a difference in the lives of our youth, and others in our local community, we strive toward a drug-free tomorrow. Contact us today if you or someone you know needs help. Together, we can help them receive the help they need both today and tomorrow.