Letter to the editor: Science or not, medical marijuana can help

Regarding the letter “Anxiety and medical marijuana” (Feb. 13, TribLIVE): Much like this paper’s cartoons Marmaduke and The Lockhorns, this made me laugh. I found myself questioning the motives of the letter-writer, a psychiatrist.

I have never sought a medical marijuana card, and I have no reason to think he is less than honorable. But, quite frankly, his letter didn’t pass my “sniff test” (pun intended). He states that “There is no scientific evidence that marijuana actually helps with anxiety.” I say, placebo effect. If people believe it helps, it will.

I’m led to believe only he has the magic elixir that will help this anxiety-riddled community. Personally, I believe it would be better sold in our state stores with lower contents of THC so those wishing to imbibe can do so responsibly without frying their brains.

Is the doctor experiencing a shortage of patients (money) causing his prohibitionist viewpoint? Is he unaware of the behaviors of early 20th-century Americans who would breathe the vapors off a cookie sheet pan on their radiators as they rocked in their chairs euphorically?

Come on, Doc, you lost me when you used the buzzword “gateway.” If it helps people feel better without hurting others, then so be it. Do you have a drink now and then? Live your life, let them live theirs. Too funny.

Rob DiSanti

O’Hara