A person’s drug use can be rooted in numerous things. For some, especially those who are addicted to opioids, their drug use can be rooted in chronic pain. For others, their substance use could be the only way they know how to cope with a mental illness. Other people can take drugs because they want to enhance their mood and have a good time, and that desire for a good time is often what drives ecstasy use.
While ecstasy is not known for its addictive potential, people who use the drug may still find themselves dependent on taking ecstasy to function. But Luxe Recovery is a world-class treatment center that can help people overcome substance use disorder.
What Is Ecstasy or MDMA?
3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, also known as ecstasy, molly, MDMA, or simply E, is a synthetic party drug that, when taken, can alter a person’s mood and perception. It’s similar to both stimulants and hallucinogens and can produce feelings of emotional warmth and increased energy, and can distort a person’s senses and perception of time.
Ecstasy is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, which means that it has a high potential for drug abuse with no accepted medical use.
Who Uses Ecstasy?
Ecstasy abuse can affect anyone. Ecstasy pills are usually distributed in places such as nightclubs, raves, outdoor music festivals or concerts, and parties. Anyone who frequents these places or events is in a position where they may use MDMA.
That said, some research would indicate that some demographics are more likely to use ecstasy than others. People younger than 35 are more likely to use ecstasy. Given the places where ecstasy use is prevalent, this is to be expected.
Bisexual women are also more likely to use MDMA relative to heterosexual men, and people who are black, Asian, or multiracial are more likely to engage in ecstasy use when compared to Caucasians in the United States.
Is Ecstasy Addictive?
Ecstasy may be addictive. That said, there’s a belief that it has a lower risk for addiction than other drugs. With that said, some users can develop a psychological dependence and become addicted to ecstasy, which can lead them to keep using it even if they face adverse effects as a result of using it.
Signs and Symptoms of Ecstasy Addiction
The use of ecstasy can lead to a number of physical and psychological signs. These signs of ecstasy addiction can include:
Effects on the Mind
Ecstasy can cause some users to struggle with anxiety or depression when they are not using the drug, especially in the days following MDMA use, which is sometimes referred to as ‘Suicide Tuesday’ as they may take MDMA on a weekend and come down from it in the following days.
Users may also become more irritable and emotionally volatile, which can manifest as having mood swings or being emotionally unstable.
Some cognitive impairments, such as trouble remembering things, difficulty concentrating, and a general mental fog, may also occur.
Many users also feel strong cravings to use the drug, even if they’re unable to access any or if they’re in a situation where using it would be inappropriate. Some people may also find that it can be harder for them to enjoy things unless they’re using molly.
Effects on the Body
Taking molly can often increase a person’s body temperature, especially when paired with hot environments (such as concerts or outdoor raves) and physical exertion (such as dancing). It can also cause dehydration. This can cause some people to overcorrect and drink too much water, which can lead to hyponatremia. This is when a person consumes water without adequate salt consumption, which can lead to a low concentration of sodium in a person’s blood.
If a person’s body temperature rises too high, they run the risk of overheating, suffering heatstroke, organ failure, or worse.
Like a lot of other drugs with stimulant effects, MDMA can increase a user’s heart rate and blood pressure. Repeated use of ecstasy can lead to long-term cardiovascular problems. Prolonged use can also damage organs such as the kidneys and liver.
High doses of MDMA, or mixing it with another substance, can also cause seizures.
Effects of Ecstasy Addiction
An ecstasy addiction can have profound effects on a person’s life. Like any other drug, one of the most worrying effects of addiction is that long-time ecstasy users can develop a tolerance for the drug, which can lead to them taking more of the drug to get the high they want. This can greatly increase a user’s risk of overdosing.
Many users may also neglect their responsibilities, such as work, school, or familial obligations, as they prioritize taking MDMA. Their social circles may also change as they withdraw from family and friends to spend time with others who use molly. Some may face financial strain as they spend their money on MDMA.
Using ecstasy can lead to dependence, which can cause someone to suffer withdrawal symptoms if they ever stop using the drug.
Ecstasy Addiction Treatment Options
Treatment for ecstasy addiction and misuse can help people recover from their drug use. A treatment program will generally include some of the following:
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can help a person recover from a chronic ecstasy habit.
CBT can help a person identify the thought patterns that can lead to unhealthy behaviors such as drug use. DBT can help by teaching a patient emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and coping skills, which can be vital in reducing harmful behaviors.
Support Groups
Support groups can be vital in helping people recover from any form of addiction. Support groups can be a place wherein a person in recovery can find encouragement and accountability from people who understand their struggles because they’ve had similar difficulties.
Holistic Care
Holistic treatment options can complement evidence-based care and enhance a patient’s well-being. Some practices such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help a person manage their cravings, which can be invaluable in maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse.
Overcome an Addiction to Ecstasy at Luxe Recovery
There are so many things that can lead to addiction. Genetics can play a role as a person with a familial history of addiction is more vulnerable to substance use.
But a person’s environment can also lead to drug use. Being in situations wherein using drugs is tolerated or even normalized can contribute greatly to drug use, whether it’s through lax attitudes or peer pressure.
Regardless of what drives a person to use drugs, they can also stop using drugs. It doesn’t take a genetic history of overcoming addiction to recover. It just takes the right care and support.
Luxe Recovery can offer that care and support. We can help you or someone you know to take back your life from the use of drugs.
