In today’s New York Times, Dr. Peter Provet, Odyssey House President & CEO, responds to a recent article about the growing use of marijuana after legalization.
To the Editor:
Re “Unexpected Problem in the Rise of Marijuana” (front page, Oct. 5):
As we navigate the evolving landscape of marijuana legalization, it is crucial to emphasize the need for effective treatment options alongside these reforms. While legal access to cannabis may alleviate burdens on the criminal justice system, it also raises concerns about increased use and potential addiction.
Research suggests that approximately 9 to 17 percent of cannabis users may develop an addiction, particularly among those who start young or use it frequently. This reality highlights the necessity for robust public health initiatives focused on education and treatment.
Effective treatment strategies, including cognitive-behavioral and motivational enhancement therapies, are essential for addressing cannabis use disorder. Alarmingly, only about 10 percent of daily users seek help, often because of stigma or a false belief that treatment is unnecessary.
We must prioritize funding for prevention and treatment programs to create a balanced approach to cannabis use that mitigates the negative consequences of legalization while promoting responsible use.
Peter Provet
New York
The writer is the president of Odyssey House.