HSE Offers Free Support as HHC Becomes Illegal

Cork families concerned about HHC use can access immediate help through new HSE support services launched today, as the synthetic cannabis-like drug officially becomes illegal under Irish law.

From today, 29 July 2025, Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) joins the list of controlled drugs, making possession, sale, or supply illegal. The semi-synthetic cannabinoid, which had been sold legally in Cork shops as vapes, edibles and oils, now carries the same legal penalties as cannabis.

The HSE's Drugs and Alcohol Helpline (1800 459 459) offers free, confidential support from 9:30am to 5:30pm weekdays, with email support available at helpline@hse.ie. Local services throughout Cork provide face-to-face support, with a full directory available at Drugs.ie/services.

Young people who may have purchased HHC products before today's ban need to understand the legal implications. Parents are urged to have open conversations with their children about the changes, as ordering HHC from abroad or buying from illegal sources poses additional health risks.

The HSE warns that substance use during brain development (ages 12 to mid-20s) can cause lasting damage to learning, memory and emotional wellbeing. Recent studies at University Hospital Galway found HHC was the second most common drug in psychosis presentations over a 21-month period.

For starting difficult conversations, the HSE suggests parents use neutral opening phrases like "I saw something in the paper about young people" and practice active listening. Parents should discuss various substances, not just HHC, as alcohol, cannabis or ecstasy may be more familiar to Cork teenagers.

Adolescent drug and alcohol treatment services accept direct referrals from parents concerned about regular drug use. Cork's Drug and Alcohol Task Force (DATF) can provide additional guidance on available services.

In emergencies, the HSE reminds people to call 112 or 999 immediately. "Medics are your mates," they emphasise, encouraging anyone experiencing physical or mental health issues after drug use to seek help without fear.

Parents seeking guidance can access "Alcohol and Drugs: A Parent's Guide" through drugs.ie, which offers practical advice on discussing substance use with young people. The HSE stresses that while peer influence is strong during adolescence, parental input remains crucial in drug prevention.

The support services aim to help both current users adjusting to the legal changes and families navigating conversations about drug use during this transition period.