DANGERS OF MARIJUANA CANNOT BE UNDERESTIMATED

The dangers of marijuana are not overblown and must be taken seriously
(Letters to the Editor: Meth Labs a Result of Failed War on Drugs, Oct. 9).
Our young people must be made aware that using marijuana has dangerous
consequences that can put their futures in jeopardy. It's the most widely
used illicit drug among our youths and is more potent than ever. Habitual
use generally leads to significant health, social, learning and behavioral
problems. Moreover, getting high impairs judgment, leading to risky
decision-making on issues such as sex, criminal activity or riding with
someone who is driving with a high from marijuana use or booze.

Marijuana use leads to addiction. Thus, this is the reason more teens enter
treatment for marijuana abuse each year than for all other illicit drugs
combined. Kids need to hear from their parents, someone they trust, how
risky marijuana use can be. So, it's the parents' responsibility to help
them separate the bull from the facts. Parents, better act now before it's
too late.

Dailey Berard

Lafayette