Depressed Teens and Marijuana: A Deadly Mix

The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy wanted to make sure the messages was clear regarding teen pot use and depression: They're a terrible combination:

White House Drug Policy: Teens, Marijuana, and Depression Press Release

National Drug Control Policy Report: Teen Marijuana Use Worsens Depression

The report analyzed around a dozen studies about marijuana use and mental health. The policy office cautioned that teens who use marijuana to "self-medicate" may worsen their underlying depression, and potentially other mental health issues.

The report concluded the following:

• That teen depression is a problem, which is intensified through the use of marijuana
  
• That marijuana use is not safe

As soon as the report was released groups such as NORML immediately set about to discredit it by countering with their own "unbiased" opinions. This report was released at the same time as video showing Senator Obama (in 2003) talking about the decriminalization of marijuana, and the need for a needle exchange program. Obama stated then that the "war on drugs" was a failure , and it was time for a more "sound drug policy." Of course, Obama supported his argument by looking to Europe as a model of a "sound" drug culture.

Maybe it is time for Senator Obama to clarify is position from 2003, and his planned drug policy if he is elected. Given his prior use of drugs, and current addiction to cigarettes, he might have an insight that others don't. Questions that the next President needs to answer:

1. Do you feel the war on drugs is a lost cause?
2. Do you feel drug use, even casual, is harmful?
3. What would you say to your child about the use of drugs?
4. What drug policies would you support as part of your Presidency:

• Needle exchange programs
• Decriminalizing marijuana
• Expanded medical marijuana programs
• Increased or level funding for law enforcement
• Increased or level funding for drug prevention programs
• Increased or level funding for drug counseling

The National Drug Control Policy report is only the tip of the iceberg. The youth of the world have always been in jeopardy, and drug use is just one of those problems facing them. I came of age during the 70's and 80's, which saw a dramatic increase of drug use. I witnessed many of my generation lose the battle with their drug addictions, and all them had started out as casual users. The question all of us must ask out loud is - "What advise would I give a child about the use of drugs?" The answer we give will effect that child, and this country, for the rest of their life.............so answer wisely.