Warnings about cannabis have recently surged. In early February, researchers pointed to a concerning increase in severe mental illness among young Canadians linked to access to stronger cannabis products. The following day, a book titled *A Killing In Cannabis* was released, shedding light on the 2019 California murders and ongoing violence in the marijuana sector, suggesting that legalization hasn’t resolved these issues.
On February 9, the New York Times backtracked on its stance advocating full marijuana legalization. They stated that the U.S. is grappling with a “marijuana problem,” acknowledging a crisis concerning cannabis addiction and mental illness. The paper even suggested banning THC extracts, which would essentially criminalize much of the legal cannabis market. THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects, and its concentrated forms, especially in vaping, are particularly popular—and profitable.
Looking back, I can’t claim I’m surprised. I wrote a book in 2019 called *Please Tell the Children*, detailing extensive research linking cannabis and THC to mental health issues, including psychosis and schizophrenia. I highlighted concerns that the push for marijuana legalization poses risks to the mental well-being of teenagers and young adults. It feels like advocates treated it as just another recreational drug rather than acknowledging its potential dangers. They marketed it in ways that encouraged use for anxiety and depression, especially among those already vulnerable to mental health problems.
After my book was published, I anticipated backlash from the industry aimed at discrediting it, but I didn’t expect to see traditional media like the Times siding with them. The Times didn’t review my book, despite my long tenure there, and major outlets canceled interviews that were initially scheduled to discuss the pressing issues it raised. The Washington Post even labeled the discussions surrounding it as a “controversy.”
In *Pandemia*, I noted how entrenched media biases—often termed “woke groupthink”—have distorted the conversation. Many reporters mistakenly believed that a significant number of Black Americans were jailed for minor marijuana offenses, framing marijuana legalization as a racial equity issue. This narrative seemed to shut down any opposing views, branding dissenters as racists.
I believe the growing awareness of the psychiatric risks of marijuana stems from people recognizing the problems in themselves and their loved ones.
Yet, even with this awareness, the influential narratives in media largely remain. A recent case highlighted by conservative commentator Brett Cooper involved her personal experiences related to her brother’s schizophrenia. She candidly shared his struggles with the disease on social media, which resonated widely, racking up millions of views.
Regrettably, Cooper’s experiences resonate with many families. Individuals with schizophrenia often face severe life challenges, including job instability and social isolation, frequently relying on antipsychotic medications that come with tough side effects. Given the power of personal stories, it seems her testimony might have carried more weight than traditional articles or research studies.
We still have a long way to go in dealing with the fallout from cannabis legalization and commercial practices. It seems President Trump’s decision to “reschedule” cannabis is not a step that will benefit the situation.
It’s clear that the larger debate surrounding cannabis isn’t purely legal or political—it’s also cultural and medical. Despite widespread public support for legalization, most advocates don’t use cannabis and may not grasp its potential dangers, particularly for frequent young users.
If voices like Cooper’s continue to emerge, they might bear enough weight to alter public perception about the risks associated with marijuana. As awareness grows, support for legalization could wane, especially as people witness firsthand the less glamorous side of cannabis use.
Interestingly, there’s been a spike in interest in my book, which has gone out of stock on major book-selling platforms. What does that mean for the future? It’s uncertain.
This moment might be indicative of a shift in perceptions about cannabis. I wonder if the convincing narrative pushed by the cannabis industry is finally facing scrutiny. Only time will tell how this all unfolds.
But it’s clear—staying silent isn’t an option. It’s crucial to share these concerns and realities with others.
