HASHISH ADDICTION TREATMENT CENTER IN ORANGE COUNTY

Hashish abuse has become a serious concern in the U.S., especially among youth. A study published in the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse reported that roughly 6.5% of U.S. high school seniors had recently used the drug.¹ But young people aren’t the only ones who abuse this drug.

Cannabis-based drugs like hashish (commonly known as hash) have become somewhat socially accepted, but they can be more hazardous than many people realize. Is hashish addictive? It can be, and those in its grip can experience a wide range of serious physical and social complications. Fortunately, comprehensive hashish addiction treatment is available at Yellowstone Recovery.

WHAT IS HASHISH?

Hashish is a resin-based drug derived from cannabis (the marijuana plant). The yellow, brown, or black resin is usually formed into a brick shape, and it may feel dry or oily in texture. With further processing, the resin can be separated out to produce hash oil.

Hash use typically produces effects like the following:

• Relaxed, happy feelings
• Increased appetite
• Lowered inhibitions
• Distorted senses
• Lack of coordination

IS HASH ADDICTIVE?

Yes, hashish can be addictive. While some users believe that cannabis-based substances like hash are less habit-forming than other drugs, prolonged and heavy use can lead to psychological dependence and, in some cases, physical withdrawal symptoms.

Hash contains concentrated THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, which affects the brain’s reward system, leading to cravings and compulsive use over time. Individuals who develop a dependence on hash may struggle with mood swings, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and a loss of motivation.

While not everyone who uses hashish will become addicted, some individuals may develop a pattern of compulsive use, characterized by a strong desire to use the drug despite being aware of the negative consequences. This often leads to increased tolerance of the drug, which results in the user needing more hash to achieve the same effects as previously experienced with smaller amounts.

The risk of addiction varies from person to person and can be influenced by genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Those with a history of substance abuse or mental health issues need to be especially wary of the detrimental effects of hashish

HASH VS WEED: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HASHISH AND MARIJUANA

Hashish is distinctly different from marijuana in its THC content. Hash production involves the extraction and collection of the plant’s resin compounds, and as a result, the THC in hashish is much more concentrated than that of marijuana, which consists of largely unprocessed plant parts.

HOW HASHISH IS USED

There are different methods of ingesting hashish:

• Smoking: The most common method of using hashish is by smoking. It can be smoked in a pipe, bong, or in a joint where it is mixed with tobacco or cannabis. Sometimes, it’s also smoked using a hookah.
• Vaporizing: Hash can be vaporized using a vaporizer designed to handle concentrates. This method heats the hash to a temperature that releases its active compounds without burning it, producing vapor instead of smoke.
• Eating: Like other cannabis products, hashish can be incorporated into edibles, such as brownies. When eaten, the effects take longer to onset but can be more intense and longer-lasting compared to smoking or vaporizing. This is because when THC is metabolized in the liver, it converts to 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent than THC itself.
• Dabbing: This is a method of flash-vaporization in which small pieces of hash are heated on a hot surface and the resulting vapor is inhaled. This method is known for its quick, potent effects.

It’s important to understand that no method of ingesting hash is entirely without risk.

SIGNS OF HASH ADDICTION

To identify an addiction, watch for drug hashish side effects like these:

• Anxiety/depression
• Poor decision-making
• Difficulties at work or in relationships
• Recurring nausea/stomach issues
• Reduced participation in other activities
• Using in dangerous situations
• Unexplained weight gain

Symptoms—psychological, physical, and/or behavioral—can vary in type and intensity from person to person.

LONG-TERM HASH OIL EFFECTS

In addition to the ways in which addiction can affect mood, behavior and relationships, long-term hash use can do serious damage to a person’s health. Regular smoking can lead to respiratory problems like chronic bronchitis, pneumonia, and irreversible lung damage.

Cannabis drugs like hash have also been linked to a reduction in attention and learning skills, leading to a lower level of achievement and a higher level of delinquency among chronic users.

HASH WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

Withdrawal from hash can lead to a range of symptoms, which—again—may vary in intensity depending on factors like the duration of use and individual physiology. Common symptoms of hash withdrawal include:

• Mood changes: Individuals may experience irritability, mood swings, anxiety, or depression. These mood disturbances are among the most commonly reported symptoms of cannabis withdrawal.
• Sleep difficulties: Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing unsatisfying sleep, along with vivid, disturbing dreams or nightmares, are common during withdrawal.
• Cravings: Strong cravings for hash can occur as the body adjusts to its absence.
• Appetite changes: Many individuals experience a decrease in appetite or changes in eating patterns during withdrawal. This may be accompanied by weight loss.
• Physical symptoms: Physical symptoms can include headaches, sweating, shakiness, and gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or abdominal pain.
• General discomfort: Feelings of restlessness, unease, or physical discomfort are not uncommon.
• Concentration problems: Difficulty concentrating or focusing on tasks can be a challenge during the withdrawal period.

It’s important to note that while uncomfortable, cannabis withdrawal symptoms are generally not life-threatening. However, they can be challenging to manage, particularly for heavy or long-term users. Seeking support from healthcare professionals can provide guidance and make the process more manageable.

THE HASHISH DETOX PROCESS

At Yellowstone Recovery, detox is done under professional supervision. A treatment plan is first tailored to the patient’s needs, then the drug is withheld until it is no longer present in the body (highly addicted individuals may be slowly tapered off). To mitigate hash oil withdrawal symptoms like depression, anxiety, insomnia, or nausea, doctors may also prescribe temporary medications.

During detox, patients are closely monitored by medical professionals at all times to ensure their safety and success.

HOW TO STOP SMOKING HASH: GET HELP AT YELLOWSTONE RECOVERY

At Yellowstone Recovery, we use a combination of medically monitored detox and clinically backed therapeutic techniques to free clients from destructive hash addictions. Our compassionate, experienced addiction specialists work closely with clients and their loved ones to develop strong, individually tailored treatment plans for the best chances of long-term success.

Learn more about our residential treatment program by calling (844) 217-5963 today.

Sources:

1. Palamar JJ, Lee L, Weitzman M. Prevalence and correlates of hashish use in a national sample of high school seniors in the United States. Am J Drug Alcohol Abuse. 2015 May;41(3):197-205. doi: 10.3109/00952990.2015.1011745.