The Health Service Executive (HSE) has expressed growing apprehension over the escalating presentations at mental health services, citing the introduction of synthetic cannabis to the Irish market as a significant cause for concern. The HSE highlights the concurrent surge in cocaine usage and the potency of various substances, including synthetic cannabinoids, as contributing factors.
The use of synthetic cannabinoids, available in forms such as jelly and vapes, has witnessed alarming incidents, with several young people in Fermoy hospitalized after vaping a substance that was later identified as the legally sold substance hexahydrocannabinol (HHC). Despite being legal at present, HHC has attracted attention from the National Poisons Information Centre due to its adverse effects.
Professor Eamon Keenan, National Clinical Lead for addiction services in the HSE, stresses the urgency of addressing the risks associated with vaping, particularly among young people. The HHC substance, a semi-synthetic cannabinoid, has become a cause for concern, prompting the HSE to advocate for its prohibition.
While HHC is not currently controlled under the Misuse of Drugs Acts in Ireland, the Department of Justice emphasizes that selling psychoactive substances for human consumption could constitute an offense under Section 3 of the Criminal Justice (Psychoactive Substances) Act 2010. The Department of Health is actively monitoring HHC through an Early Warning, Emerging Trends working group.
The HSE underlines the need for proactive measures in the workplace to support mental health, including stress risk assessments, mental health champions, and awareness initiatives. Recognizing the shared risk factors for mental health conditions, the HSE urges a comprehensive approach to address stressors such as work issues, financial problems, and health concerns.
In addition to synthetic cannabinoids, the HSE points out emerging drug trends, including the appearance of substances like fluromethamphetamine or 2-FMA, dubbed “pink cocaine,” at events such as Electric Picnic. Prof. Keenan warns against misconceptions about such substances, urging individuals not to be swayed by positive testimonials.
As the HSE confronts the challenges posed by synthetic drugs and their impact on mental health, it emphasizes the importance of parental awareness and communication to educate young people about the dangers associated with these substances. The HSE concludes that the emergence of synthetic drugs necessitates collective efforts to safeguard mental health and well-being.
