The Impact of Marijuana as More States Look to Legalize

Marijuana is linked to mental health issues, some health benefits, and public safety concerns. The debates persist as more states move to lift prohibitions.

A man stands with a sign in New York's Times Square telling people he needs cash to buy marijuana on June 7, 2023. Richard Moore/The Epoch Times

At 17, Jokabel Del Villar puffed a marijuana cigarette for the first time at a party, reveling in the “high” that yielded an unexpected and immediate feeling of calm.

But what started as a welcome mental escape for the young artist soon became an addiction the teen couldn’t shake.