Marijuana Use and the Effect on Teens.

"It just helps you get through the day, you know? Helps you relax. It's like an illegal form of Paxil or a mental massage." This quote is taken from a 17 year-old honor student (who shall remain nameless for her protection) who started smoking marijuana at 16. She was in the top 11% of her class with prospects of being a psychologist and living in New York by 23; However, she is now presiding in the barrios of Houston, …

…matter how cheep or how harmless everyone says it is. Its a mind altering addictive substance that can only result in negative effects, and the abuse of this substance destroys lives and minds. Mental and physical damage, and addiction to marijuana can only be prevented one way; not abusing the substance in the first place. One can only hope that the youth will become more educated on the subject and stop abuse before it begins.