According to a new book, there is evidence that shows marijuana can cause mental illness and violence.
The author of the book, Alex Berenson, a former New York Times reporter, has outlined the drug’s links to psychosis and cites the rise in murder and aggravated assaults in Washington.
From the year 2013 to 2017, the state’s rates for murder and aggravated assaults saw a jump of 40%. It was in 2012 that Washington legalized recreational marijuana and was the first state to do so.
The book, titled, “Tell Your Children: The Truth About Marijuana, Mental Illness, and Violence” notes studies that also show cannabis can cause mental illness. There has been a 50-percent increase in schizophrenia hospital admissions since 2006.
According to Berenson, marijuana today is stronger compared to the 70s, and that also increases the risk.
