Hash Addiction

Marijuana is one of the most common substances that is used across our country. It is legal for medicinal uses in some states, and even for recreational purposes in a select few. But, there are also extremely large numbers of individuals that use it recreationally regardless of the legality. There several different forms of marijuana that can be used, with each one varying in the part of the plant that it is from, or how it is processed. One type that has been increasing in use is Hashish, also known as hash. Hash is extracted from the hair-like parts of the plant called trichomes, from fragments of the leaves, stems, and the flowers.

The active ingredients of hash are generally the same as those of traditional marijuana, like THC, but the potency and concentration is much higher. With traditional marijuana, the average THC proportion is around 5%, but with hash, it can range between 5-15%. There is also something called Hash oil, which is created through solvent extraction from hash or marijuana, and this can have even more THC contained within it.

Hashish can come in a couple different forms, but one of the most common is a solid resinous appearance. But, it could also be paste-like, or in yellow, brownish, or black blocks. As far as hash oil, it typically has a waxy or syrupy appearance with a yellow or gold color. The oil can also be formed into solids, which can look like yellow glass sheets.

How Hashish is Used

There are a few different methods of using hash. It is typically smoked from a pipe or bong, but it can also be put into food and eaten. Nowadays, there are even hash vaporizers that individuals can use or some will add it into tea.

As with any type of substance, hash can have the potential of being abused by those who use it. Hash and other forms of cannabis with such high concentrations of THC can be quite dangerous to individuals. In fact, in areas where marijuana has been legalized and there are products containing high concentrations of THC, the amount of visits to the ER as a result of cannabis intoxication has increased.

Various signs and symptoms of hash use and abuse can include:

• Relaxation
• Feelings of well-being
• Panic
• Paranoia
• Hunger
• Throat Soreness
• Anxiety
• Rapid Heart Rate
• Increased Blood Pressure
• Coordination Impairment
• Hallucinations
• Decreased Motivation
• Delusional Thoughts
• Difficulty Paying Attention

The above are only some of the potential immediate and short-term effects that can arise.

There are also effects that can occur after extended periods of use and abuse, such as:

• Decreased Production of Sexual Hormones – This can result in sexual dysfunction in males
• Increased risk of cardiovascular issues
• Respiratory Issues
• Suppression of the immune system
• Potential development issues in children prenatally exposed to THC
• Brain Changes – This can result in decreased attention, concentration, memory, as well as problem-solving difficulties
• Potential development of mental health issues

There are also issues that can arise from hashish addiction not directly related to health, but rather more socially related.

This could include:

• Career damage
• Financial problems
• Ruined relationships with family or other loved ones
• Legal troubles
• Less interest or desire in previous activities or responsibilities

There are some who speak out against the possibility of addiction to hash or marijuana, but this is quite untrue. This category of substances may not necessarily bring about a physical dependency like certain other substances can, but an individual can still become addicted to them. Realistically, any substance can be addictive in certain cases or for particular individuals. Those struggling with addiction to hash should seek help before it causes even further damage to their life and health.

Finding Treatment for a Hash, Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Many different substances can lead to individuals struggling with an addiction, and this can be a very despairing situation to be in. An individual can feel like they will ever be able to break away from using the substance, but this is far from true. Fortunately, there are many different types of drug and alcohol addiction treatment out there. The increasing number of addiction cases within our country has led to the development of many modalities to help people break free of this condition. Sometimes, the large amount of options out there can make it difficult to know which one to choose, but we are here to help with that. Our advisors are knowledgeable and familiar with the various facilities and their offerings and can help explain them. Give us a call today and we will help find the perfect center to help you or your loved one.