Cannabis, Mental Health, and the Truth About Balance By Justice | Elevated Club NYC

As cannabis legalization continues to expand, so does the conversation around its impact on mental health. One of the most talked-about — and controversial — contributions to this debate is Alex Berenson’s 2019 book, Tell Your Children: The Truth About Marijuana, Mental Illness, and Violence.

Berenson argues that modern, high-THC cannabis is linked to rising rates of psychosis, mental illness, and even violent behavior. The book has been widely cited by opponents of legalization — and heavily criticized by scientists, medical professionals, and cannabis advocates alike.

So what’s the truth? Like most things in health and wellness, it lives somewhere in the middle.

What the Book Gets Right

Despite its alarmist tone, Tell Your Children does raise concerns that deserve serious discussion.

Scientific research does show that high-THC cannabis can increase the risk of psychosis, particularly for:

• People with a personal or family history of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder

• Individuals who begin consuming cannabis at a very young age

• Heavy, frequent users of high-potency products

Cannabis is not harmless, and pretending otherwise doesn’t serve consumers or communities. Responsible education matters.

Where the Narrative Falls Short

Where many experts take issue with Berenson’s work is how the data is framed.

Correlation is often presented as causation. Is cannabis the sole driver of mental health crises, or one factor among many — including genetics, trauma, socioeconomic stress, alcohol use, and access to healthcare?

Most peer-reviewed research suggests the latter.

Additionally, the book largely ignores the difference between:

• Unregulated, illegal cannabis

• Tested, labeled, regulated cannabis products

That distinction matters more than ever.

The Role of Regulation and Education

Legal, regulated cannabis markets exist precisely to address the risks Berenson highlights.

Regulation allows for:

• Lab testing for potency and contaminants

• Clear THC labeling

• Consumer education on dosage and effects

• Age restrictions (21+ only)

• Transparency around sourcing and production

When cannabis is treated responsibly, consumers are empowered to make informed decisions — not fearful ones.

Cannabis as a Tool, Not a Villain

Cannabis has documented benefits when used appropriately, including:

• Pain management

• Appetite stimulation

• Sleep support

• Anxiety relief (for some users, not all)

• Quality-of-life improvements for medical patients

The key word is appropriate.

Cannabis is a tool — not a cure-all, and not the monster it’s sometimes made out to be.

A Balanced Truth

Cannabis isn’t harmless.

Cannabis isn’t evil.

The truth lives in moderation, education, and accountability.

At Elevated Club NYC, we believe honest conversations are more powerful than fear-based narratives. Our responsibility is to provide access to regulated products, accurate information, and a culture that prioritizes wellness over hype.

That’s how progress happens.