I know weed addiction is a real thing, and I believe those who say they've had withdrawals... though I have never had anything close when I stop/am unable to smoke for a while, typically being a daily smoker. I also think it's stupid to say that weed has no negative effect, because it most certainly does.

Still, having been addicted to heroin (and other substances), I can say with 100% certainty that the difference in safety and potential for addiction with weed is astronomically better than everything else in every way. I don't think we need to ignore or forget this to be aware of some of the negative sides to cannabis (not that this post is suggesting that we should).

Weed is a drug, but it is one that should be legal (if we are going to have any legal substances like alcohol) but it isn't and it has to be fought for. So be aware of the downsides and spread this information, it is a necessity. But let's also not pretend it isn't significantly better than almost every other drug out there, or lose any steam in fighting for its legality. Users need to be aware of some of the health issues and potential for addiction, but there's also still a lot of misinformation on the other end of the spectrum. Practically everyone knows all the pros and cons of alcohol because its legal and regulated, therefore the information has been studied and made more accessible. We need this same level of regulation, information, and accessibility with cannabis.