Do teens need a social environment that tolerates use of alcohol, cigarettes and other addictive drugs? Angelo Lynn makes this argument in his editorial of April 7. Lynn goes on to say that this use should be “controlled and socially acceptable … with tolerance, understanding and moderation.”
Moderation does not work for people with addiction. Once addicted, it is terribly difficult to quit. I speak from experience. I am a food addict. I am unable to decide on my own when any given meal is over. Sugar and flour are substances I need to avoid. It is only by following a dietitian-prescribed food plan to the letter and availing myself of the daily support of fellow food addicts that I am able to maintain a healthy weight, 85 pounds down from my top known weight.
The best age for an addict to try a substance known to be addictive is never.
John-Eric Colley Robinson
Weybridge