Pubdate: Fri, 16 May 2014
Source: Markham Economist & Sun (CN ON)
Copyright: 2014 Metroland Printing
Contact:  http://www.yorkregion.com/markham-on/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2360
Author: Amanda Persico

HOSPITAL TALK PUTS FOCUS ON TEEN MARIJUANA USE

It's 11 o'clock, do you know if your kids are smoking dope?

Just like any other drug, there are risks associated with using
marijuana.

But sometimes, it can be difficult to find reliable information for
parents of teens and youth.

"There are strong beliefs one way or the other about marijuana use,"
said Dr. Amir Barsoum, psychiatrist with Markham Stouffville Hospital.

"There are a lot of misconceptions and confusion out
there."

The hospital wants to start a dialogue with the parents about pot
use.

It is hosting a presentation for parents and youth May 21 and will
feature a general overview of marijuana, its prevalence today and the
most recent research.

There will be a panel discussion and a question and answer segment
with hospital psychiatrists.

"Our role is education," Dr. Barsoum said. "We want to have a balanced
talk and not take one side or the other."

The presentation is to help parents learn the signs of when social pot
smoking turns into an addiction.

Addiction is measured not by quantity of use but by dependence on the
drug, Mr. Barsoum said.

Signs to look for could include isolation, wanting to stop but not
being able to stop, physical dependence where the person smokes twice
as much to get the same high, withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia and
irritability, as well as a lack of motivation.

Marijuana can also be associated with anxiety, panic attacks,
permanent psychosis and paranoia.

"Just as with any other drug, there are side effects and risks," Dr.
Barsoum said.

If you have questions about marijuana use, send them anonymously  to be answered at the session.
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MAP posted-by: Matt