

Hash Addiction Treatment

Recovering From a Hashish Addiction

Hashish, the concentrated resin of marijuana, is a mild addictive substance, more psychologically addictive than physically addictive. It is still possible, however, for users to develop conditioned physical responses to the drug over time, and these, combined with emotional conditioning, function as addictive constraints.

Ending the relationship with hashish:

  • Why stop hashish use?
  • What is the main challenge?
  • What are the long-term commitments?

Why Stop?

If hashish is comparatively mild, with a stronger mental than physical addiction, then why stop? For the same reasons any physically or mentally damaging habit should be ended. Hashish, while believed to have medical value by many, remains a hotly contested medication, and it is not used without consequences.

Hash, when smoked, damages the lungs, as does any other smoke. THC and resins from hashish are fat soluble and remain in the body for long periods of time, affecting legal status and job security. Hash, abused, can interfere with relationships, and can damage vital associations.

What is the Primary Challenge When Quitting Hash?

Because there is little if any physical addiction to hash, the primary concern is psychological. Counseling, rather than medical supervision and risky detox are the primary tools used, and the primary challenge is the discipline of will to end a habitual behavior. A counselor will be primarily involved in motivational counseling, behavior modification training, and possibly such supportive treatments as hypnotherapy. It is not unusual to be a hash addict in a 12-step program for addictive personalities immediately, to provide support and companionship during the period of retraining a patient in new habits.

Long Term Concerns and Commitments

There are few long term commitments. For some users, a continuing involvement in therapy and 12-step programs may be rewarding, or even necessary, but most patients will be able to step away from their addiction with relative ease after the initial period of treatment. The primary determination is the key: a patient has to want to quit, and be disciplined enough to hold to that choice.

Concerns When Seeking Treatment

Many addiction counselors are better trained for dealing with the more severe clinical addictions. Hashish, by its nature, fails to meet the expectations of many therapists. When looking for help in overcoming a hashish addiction, it is often wise to look into other, less focused forms of therapy.
A counselor with training in helping people break common habits, or deal with common low-grade phobias, would often also be a good choice for help with a hashish addiction. Such counselors are already targeted on issues of will rather than physical addiction, and habit replacement rather than full behavioral modification. Motivation, support, and planning all come together well with such counseling.
Supplemental counseling is often appropriate. A trained hypnotherapist may ensure your will and your subconscious are working off the same page. A motivational counselor can help you get yourself ready for the entire process. Family counseling may be useful if your habitual use of hash has altered your relationship with your loved ones.

How to Explore All These Options

Exploring the possibilities is a luxury a hashish addict can afford. While many addictions are critical, life-death challenges needing instant attention, a hashish user is in a good position to design the most broadly useful and life-enhancing counseling support available. By getting solid referrals from doctors and from professional referral services, a hashish addict can develop a working list of possible providers. From there, interviews and in time the development of a working plan to help you give up smoking hash can progress at a comfortable pace, resulting in a tailored program that fits perfectly.
