Dope Smoke

Official UK figures are reporting that mental health admissions due to the abuse of cannabis have risen by over 80 percent, 65 percent of which was in the last 5 years. There were 510 cannabis related hospital admissions in 1996-97, however this has shot up to 946 in 2005-06. It is estimated over 2 million people in England alone use it on a regular basis. Thats over 1% of the entire english population.

“There is no doubt that cannabis-related psychiatric problems have increased substantially,”

said Professor Robin Murray of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

“This might be down to better recognition, but I would say these figures are just the tip of the iceberg. Its only more recently that psychiatrists have understood the importance of cannabis use.”

The figures were published by Rosie Winterton, one of the countrys health minsitors. The admissions into hospitals were related to mental ir behavourial issue due to the use of cannabis. However it was stated that the number of patients may not be accurate as one patient might have being admitted on various occasions.

“These figures show that there is an urgent need for a properly funded campaign to help young people realise cannabis use is risky,”

said Paul Jenkins, chief executive of the Rethink charity.