Good question regarding "statistics". Who really cares abour the "base". 15-20% of anything is significant. In the case of 5% of youth going to more addictive drugs (e.g. herion, coke, meth.etc.) that is enough to classifiy it as a crisis. There are places a person can go to learn and educate themselves on addictions while not being an addict. A good place is the Caron Foundation in Pa. It would be worthwhile to spend a week going through intensive workshops, lectures, etc. to truly understand the problems. I would have much more faith in a person who could certify they have actually tried to understand the crisis we are facing with Marijuana and all other drugs. It is costly ( about $2500-3000) for a week but it demonstrates a true desire to be educated before pontificating on a subject without formal knowledge. This facility is the same one Miss America was sent to for help and they also have a program to help others to understand addictions including those who are not addicts. They have a terrific knowledgeable staff and it is pretty intensive. I am not and have not been an addict but felt I should be educated before I discuss the subject and this was referred to me by some very smart people on addiction.
