Opinion Column Criticises Vaping, Antidepressants, ADHD Diagnoses, and Cannabis Policy as Contributors to Public Ills
A provocative opinion column blames UK policies on vaping, antidepressants, ADHD diagnoses, and cannabis for worsening public health while praising the NHS.Summary
The commentary argues that British authorities are inadvertently fostering ill health through policies on vaping, antidepressants, ADHD diagnoses, and cannabis. It dismisses vaping as a smoking‑cessation tool, citing throat irritation, coughing and unknown long‑term risks, and warns it could be as harmful as tobacco. The author questions the proven benefits of antidepressants, notes rising prescription rates and severe withdrawal effects, and references Dr Marcia Angell’s critiques. He criticises the "soft" diagnosis of ADHD that leads to powerful amphetamine prescriptions, listing side effects such as aggression, insomnia and cardiovascular risks, and points to a Channel 4 documentary and professional doubts. He attacks lax cannabis enforcement, linking marijuana use to mental illness and violence, and accuses authorities of tacit approval despite strict laws. The column also laments the erosion of the Common Travel Area between Britain and Ireland, with increasing passport checks. Overall, the thesis is that the government promotes behaviours that make people ill while expecting the NHS to repair the damage.
(Source：Headtopics)
