YOUR AD HERE »

Caroline Ford: The other side of cannabis

The spotlight on cannabis delivery services in the Truckee area prompts a different response when you look to address the consequences of substance use disorders in our community. There is another side of cannabis and that is of addiction, of family despair, impacts to the demands upon law enforcement, social and health resources of the community which are not accounted for in the uptick of use rates, and an erosion within the fabric of the community of social norms regarding perceptions of harm due to drug use.

The past year of quarantine and social isolation has seen significant rises in emergency room visits associated with alcohol and drug use, an increase in medical assisted treatment for those reaching out for assistance with their addictions, increases in behavioral health impacts associated with substance use, and increased impacts with teens of psycho-social and drug related incidences seen through our health systems. (Learn more about adolescent marijuana impacts through recent and upcoming film productions available through ttfwdd.com.)

The article raises the question as to the future of brick and mortar dispensaries; without going further into speculation of more cannabis distribution through a dispensary, there are already more than 10 storefronts established within 25-60 miles of Truckee to obtain recreational and medicinal product.



Truckee’s growth and accumulation of new residents is changing the landscape of the population base. No matter the mix, we have the opportunity to make our mountain region one of wellness and a place to access a natural high from our environment. Could we focus differently and put our Olympian spirit to the forefront, and promote health and resilience? How shall we define our community and the health impacts that leave lingering consequences to our youth?

Caroline Ford



Tahoe Truckee Future Without Drug Dependence


Support Local Journalism

 

Support Local Journalism

Readers around Lake Tahoe, Truckee, and beyond make the Sierra Sun's work possible. Your financial contribution supports our efforts to deliver quality, locally relevant journalism.

Now more than ever, your support is critical to help us keep our community informed about the evolving coronavirus pandemic and the impact it is having locally. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.

Your donation will help us continue to cover COVID-19 and our other vital local news.


Start a dialogue, stay on topic and be civil.
If you don't follow the rules, your comment may be deleted.

User Legend: iconModerator iconTrusted User