Tuesday, February 16, 6:30 pm Montpelier High School Auditorium Teens, families and community members are encouraged to attend.

Film followed by panel discussion with: Bert Klavens, Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor, and Emergency Department physician Dr. William Nowlan

"The Other Side of Cannabis," is a candid documentary film which comes from a mother’s attempt to understand her son’s psychotic break. It takes us behind the scenes to tell real-world stories the American press has missed but recent neuroscientific research has revealed. It’s a real eye opener. The film draws attention to the negative effects of marijuana on adolescents, teenagers and young adults whose brains are still forming.

In order to make an informed decision to use marijuana, it is important to know the potential risks. This film is not about legalization or medicinal treatments. Today’s marijuana can be significantly more potent than in years past and some youth are more vulnerable to adverse effects. The message that marijuana is safe, natural and harmless as a recreational substance must be weighed against the evidence of associated risks as presented by users and family members concerned about some of the effects— ranging from depression to anxiety and even psychosis, as well as the physical effects that include lung issues, heart, cognitive and other brain effects. In addition to psychosis, the professionals note that the risk for addiction is also higher for those who begin to use as children or teens, especially under the age of 15. Filmmaker Jody Belsher’s own son experienced a traumatic outcome from his use of marijuana and is interviewed.

With the increased legalization and normalization of marijuana in society today, the film’s goal is to illustrate how risks exist for Adolescents, Teenagers, and Young Adults. The documentary is edited into sections: Stories, Addiction, Family, Why Use, School, Consequences, Perception, Financial Effects, Mental Health Psychosis, Today’s Marijuana and the Brain, It’s Just Pot, Marijuana as a Gateway, Physical Effects and Recovery.

Central Vermont New Directions Coalition focuses on health and wellness among youth and families in Washington County and works with community partners, such as Vermont Department of Health and the Washington County Youth Service Bureau, to support prevention of alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and abuse. With community concern around addiction, academic struggles, drug related crime, depression and mental health, CVNDC is sponsoring this film to raise community awareness with support from Main Street Middle School Parent Advisory Group and Montpelier High School Boosters. www.cvndc.org 223-4949

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