By Peter Lear, LCSW, RYT
Researchers in New Zealand have demonstrated that those who begin using marijuana before their 18th birthday risk lower IQs that those who wait until after their 18th birthday. [1]
New Zealand ranks as the fifth highest nation in marijuana consumption in the world, behind the United States, whose population has the third highest consumption of marijuana, according to the United Nations.[2]
This long-term study gave an IQ test to 1,000 13-year-olds from the same to...
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Addiction
Research on the Effects of Marijuana
By Peter Lear, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Cannabis is becoming decriminalized and legalized in an increasing number of states and this trend will only continue. As marijuana gains even greater mainstream acceptance, it is likely that more young people will try, experiment with, and regularly use cannabis. Some will abuse it and others will become addicted. Pro-marijuana groups in particular claim that marijuana is not addictive. Dr. Leslie L. Iverson, a professor of pharmacology at the University of Cambri...
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Treatment for Cannabis Abuse
By Peter Lear, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Cannabis remains the most widely used and abused substance in the United States and Europe. While some people question whether or not a person can become addicted to marijuana or abuse it, the majority of research indicates these conditions do exist. The data is compelling: cannabis abuse causes significant impairments in people’s functioning. Marijuana abuse appears very similar to other substance dependence disorders, although it is likely to be less severe. None...
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Are You Addicted?
Or is There Another Problem...?
By Alexandria Hayes, MA, LPC, NCC
Do you worry that you have a problem with an addiction? Drink too much? Smoke pot every day? Unable to bypass the exit to Blackhawk? Spend your whole vacation in the gift shop? Even if the answer is yes to any of these questions, does that mean you're addicted?
Find Out Where You Stand
Here's a simple test you can take to see whether you're addicted, or just overdoing it:
Does the behavior improve your mood, make y...
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What We Know Now About Addiction

This is an excellent summary of why the "War on Drugs" was so misguided and what is needed to help addicts heal...
The Likely Cause of Addiction Has Been Discovered, and It Is Not What You Think
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