As weed legalization spreads, Americans are evaluating the negative effects of marijuana. The drug, legal in twenty-four states, has been linked to several health concerns. According to The Wall Street Journal, “more frequent use of marijuana that is many times as potent as strains common three decades ago is leading to more psychotic episodes.”

Recently, Dr. Kathleen Berchelmann, pediatrician and founder of MyCatholicDoctor.com joined The Drew Mariani Show to discuss the growing concerns related to marijuana use. The only responsible way to use the drug, Berchelmann said, is when it is prescribed by a physician. “There are times when it’s appropriate, and I think the most common [use] is cancer patients.”

Concern for youth

Some medical professionals are concerned about cannabis use in young people. The Wall Street Journal reported that “at Boston Children’s Hospital, doctors are treating more children developing psychotic disorders from cannabis use. Nearly a third of adolescents they see for checkups say they are using cannabis. About a third of children using cannabis report experiencing hallucinations or paranoia.”

Dr. Berchelmann said young people frequently need medical attention after developing “intractable vomiting” caused by regular marijuana use.

Morality

In addition to health-related questions, marijuana poses moral ones. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “The use of drugs inflicts very grave damage on human health and life. Their use, except on strictly therapeutic grounds, is a grave offense” (2291).

Episcopal conferences around the country have opposed legalization ballot measures. In 2022, the Bishops of Missouri argued against the Amendment 3 ballot initiative saying, “We know that regular marijuana use has been connected to respiratory problems; mental health issues (including increased anxiety and suicidal thoughts); and learning, memory, and attention loss.”

Pope Francis has also cautioned against legalizing recreational drugs, arguing such attempts “are not only highly questionable from a legislative standpoint, but they fail to produce the desired effects.”

Hope for Addiction

If someone does find themselves in the throes of addiction, there is hope. Dr. Berchelmann recommended both MyCatholicDoctor.com and Catholic in Recovery as resources for those who want sobriety and freedom.

To hear the whole conversation: https://relevantradio.com/2024/01/marijuana-is-more-dangerous-than-presumed/