[redwitch]

Not sure how causal adolescent use of grass and later psychiatric dxes really relate. The reality is that many who are in the beginning stages of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and many other mental illnesses use non-prescription drugs as a way to alleviate their symptoms. This was true in the 1800's and is true today. It could be just as logical to say that mental illness can cause drug abuse.

Addictions come in all forms. I once had a boss who was a runner. I could always tell if he hadn't had his morning run. Without the endorphin high, he got the shakes, was irritable and hyper until he could get his run in. So, it should be no surprise that someone who uses marijuana daily for years has developed an addiction. Ditto lung damage.

As to driving and being impaired via alcohol, legal drugs, illegal drugs or anything else that floats your boat, no excuse. Hanging by the short hairs is too kind. To me, you are free to do whatever you want to your body in the privacy of your home but you do not have the right to endanger me, my family, my friends or a stranger because you think you can handle your drug and drive.

BTW, I am not a user. Haven't been for over thirty years and then only occasionally. But I really see less harm in smoking a joint than in alcohol usage.