The Island’s Drug Advice Service & Helpline charity (DASH) is advising anyone currently using or thinking of using Synthetic Cannabis sometimes marketed as ‘Herbal Incense’ to get in touch and get some advice or help sooner rather then later.

Shelly Stanley, Director at DASH said, ‘Synthetic Cannabis is not a like for like substitute for Cannabis. It is a substance sprayed with artificial cannabinoids and smoked with the expectation that the user will experience the same effects as cannabis although in the majority of cases we have seen, that is not the case. Brand names such as K2 and Spice are already banned in a number of countries due to the number of deaths and serious health effects caused.

Test purchases have found that not only do packets of these substances not contain those ingredients listed but also contain other, sometimes illegal substances. Buying on-line is no safer than buying from a local dealer. The substances are not regulated; the quality and contents are not guaranteed.’

A 16 year old client at DASH who received help to stop using Herbal Incense and wanted to warn others said, “I wouldn’t recommend it. You think its fun to start with but you’ll find you end up using more and more and become addicted to it. Then you’re stuck using it.” He went on to say that, “The rebound effects are horrible once it wears off and how you behave affects your family. You start pushing them away and all your money goes on your habit.”

“I’ve been seeing someone at DASH and since I stopped using it I feel more positive and my family trust me more. Not using it makes me feel like I have control over my life again. It’s no longer the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning anymore.”

Miss Stanley said, ‘Herbal Incense can cause heart palpitations, increased temperature, psychotic symptoms in those with existing mental health problems, and has been linked with deaths in other parts of the world. It is important if someone does insist on using it that they get the facts and information to make informed decisions first. Do not use it alone and make sure someone is there to call for help if needed.

For confidential advice or information contact DASH on 615622 or email info@drugs.org.im

www.drugs.org.im
www.facebook.com/dashisleofman