By Peyton Majors
Christian Action League
December 8, 2023
A new study showing that marijuana addiction among veterans more than doubled between 2005 and 2019 should impact North Carolina’s debate over medicinal marijuana, a pro-family leader says.
The study, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, found that reports of cannabis use disorder among individuals within the Veterans Affairs health system more than doubled during that time frame, with addiction increasing even more among veterans who had been diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder.
The increase in addiction coincided with the nationwide loosening or lifting of marijuana restrictions.
The CDC defines cannabis use disorder as the inability of a person to “stop using marijuana even though it’s causing health and social problems in their lives.” About three in 10 people who use marijuana have cannabis use disorder, according to the CDC.
A bill that would have legalized medicinal marijuana in North Carolina passed the state Senate this year but failed to gain a vote in the House. Opponents of the bill say it likely will come up again in 2024. They also warn it is a stepping stone to recreational legalization statewide.
“The Christian Action League has consistently advocated against the legalization of medical marijuana in our state, and this most recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry underscores the concerns we have raised,” said Rev. Mark Creech, executive director of the Christian Action League. “This study reveals alarming trends in the rising rates of cannabis use disorder among Veterans Affairs patients, particularly those with psychiatric disorders. It is imperative we take this information seriously and consider the broader implications of marijuana legalization.”
Veterans reported an increase in addiction as an increasing number of states — 38, as of today — legalized it for medicinal use.
The researchers behind the study examined Veterans Health Administration electronic health records from 2005 to 2014 and 2016 to 2019.
Dr. Ofir Livne, an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at Columbia University and research scientist at New York State Psychiatric Institute, told Military.com that today’s marijuana is more potent than it was a decade ago, so users are “more likely to get addicted and develop substance abuse disorder,” he said. Livne worked on the study.
Livne predicted additional “increases in cannabis use disorder” as marijuana laws continue to loosen.
The CDC said signs of addiction can include:
— “trying but failing to quit using marijuana.
— “using marijuana even though it causes problems at home, school, or work.
— “continuing to use marijuana despite social or relationship problems.
— “giving up important activities with friends and family in favor of using marijuana.
— “using marijuana in high-risk situations, such as while driving a car.
— “experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping marijuana use.”
Creech said North Carolina legislators must follow the science and block the legalization of medicinal marijuana.
“The evidence is mounting regarding its potential risks, particularly for individuals with mental health conditions,” Creech said, noting that Baby Boomers “have shown an increase in cannabis use disorder rates.”
“The Christian Action League believes that a comprehensive evaluation of the consequences of marijuana legalization, especially in the context of medical use, is essential,” Creech said. “We must prioritize the well-being of our citizens, especially those who are vulnerable due to psychiatric conditions. It is our responsibility to carefully consider the potential risks and harms associated with marijuana use, particularly among our veterans and older population.
“As we continue to engage in discussions about marijuana policy in our state, we call upon lawmakers and the public to examine the evidence presented in this study and the broader body of research on this topic,” he said. “Our primary concern is the health and welfare of our community, and it is essential that we make informed decisions that prioritize public safety and well-being over the commercial interests of the marijuana industry.”