Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States, with 22.2 million people using the substance in the past month, according to recent studies. That’s why Enterhealth, a premier drug and alcohol treatment center in Dallas, is teaming up with Highland Park United Methodist Church to educate the public about the dangers of marijuana use. Dr. Harold Urschel, M.D., chief medical strategist for Enterhealth and New York Times bestselling author, will lead the discussion. Urschel will deliver information pertaining to marijuana and its immediate and lasting effects on the body. He will explore the myriad effects of marijuana on the brain – particularly its effects on the developing adolescent brain, its addictive qualities today versus in the past, and treatment options for marijuana dependence. In addition, he will dispel myths and misconceptions about the safety of marijuana. The first presentation will be held Thursday, October 19 from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. The second presentation will be Thursday, October 26 from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. Each presentation will be followed by a Q&A. Both events are free and open to the public.

“Highland Park United Methodist Church is committed to caring for those struggling with addiction,” said Rev. Ramsey Patton, associate pastor. “Part of this care involves striving to prevent addiction and promoting recovery and healing through education. As marijuana becomes more prolific in our culture, it is even more important that people learn about the dangers of its use, especially in terms of mental health.”

Addiction is a chronic brain disease, as drugs interfere with the chemical levels, receptors and structure of the human brain. Teenagers and young adults are particularly vulnerable to the effects of marijuana and other drugs because their brains are still developing. Maturing brains are more prone to injury from drugs because the part of the brain which involves judgment, impulse control and abstract thought isn’t fully developed until a person reaches their late 20s. Marijuana lowers IQ, decreases motivation to excel and achieve goals and strips users of their drive to be successful and competitive. Urschel says it’s important to understand that marijuana can cause brain damage and academic underperformance. By educating the public about the dangers of marijuana, Urschel hopes to start a larger conversation and change the public’s perceptions regarding marijuana.

“Cannabis Use Disorders are skyrocketing in the United States, with three out of every 10 people – or nearly 7 million Americans – having a marijuana abuse or addiction problem,” said Dr. Urschel. “What’s even more unnerving is that every day 3,287 teens use marijuana for the first time. We’ve noticed that as the perception of harm decreases, teen marijuana use increases, and that’s something we need to change. Studies link marijuana use to greater risks for developing addictions to other drugs. It also can permanently damage your short-term memory. The smoke from marijuana can also cause health problems. It is four times more carcinogenic than smoke from a cigarette and deposits four times as much tar. It also increases your heart rate by 20 to 100 percent, creating a five-fold increase in the risk of a heart attack within the first hour of smoking. These are just some of the facts many people don’t realize. I am looking forward to educating the public about marijuana and the dangers it brings, and I appreciate Highland Park United Methodist Church for giving me the opportunity to do so.”

For almost a decade, Enterhealth has provided a science-based alternative to traditional 12-step programs at its world-class residential and outpatient facilities. Enterhealth’s approach combines the latest advancements in medicine with evidence-based therapies to dramatically increase chances of long-term recovery. The Enterhealth team believes they have a responsibility to offer their knowledge and perspectives to the public to educate the public about addiction as a brain disease. Enterhealth hopes to inspire those who may need help or who have a loved one in need to come forward.