Dr. Abby Medcalf of New Bridge Foundation® spoke at Piedmont High School to a packed room of parents and some of their kids. The topic was Marijuana and its impact on the developing teen brain.
The Contra Costa Times covered the event and their article gives a summary of many of the points covered in Dr. Medcalf’s talk. However, the article misquoted Dr. Medcalf in a few ways, one of which was quoting her in saying that Medical Marijuana doesn’t work (or words to that effect). Dr. Medcalf did not say this and, instead, was discussing the ease with which young adults (with limited judgment due to undeveloped brains) can gain access to medicinal marijuana for symptoms such as “anxiety.” Sadly, these prescriptions are written very readily in way too many situations. What Dr. Medcalf did say was that she didn’t see these young people’s lives getting better once they started smoking marijuana.
Here at New Bridge Foundation® we see so many of these individuals who are (or become) addicted to marijuana after these types of prescriptions. NO drug on its own is a healthy alternative to coping with mental health issues. Antidepressants, for example, are meant to be used in conjunction with therapy. Prescriptions aimed at helping mental health clients are all meant to be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy or help.
If you or someone you know might be having a problem with marijuana or another drug/alcohol, call a local drug and alcohol treatment provider or your insurance company to find out more information about what help is available.
