Ecstasy Addiction Treatment

Ecstasy addiction is a significant concern that can cause several complications if left untreated. Known as MDMA, Ecstasy, or Molly, this synthetic psychoactive drug is typically taken as a capsule or tablet form and can lead to physical and psychological dependence.

Treatment options for addiction to ecstasy may include detoxification, inpatient rehab, and individual and group therapy, which have been proven effective in enabling people to overcome their addictions, build coping skills, and improve overall quality of life.

Here at PROMIS, we offer a personalised treatment plan that promotes long-term recovery and prevents potential relapse.

What Is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is a synthetic drug that acts as a stimulant and hallucinogen, mainly consisting of the active ingredient MDMA, or 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. It affects the human brain by increasing the activity of three essential chemicals such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These elevated levels lead to enhanced feelings of pleasure, increased energy, emotional warmth, and distorted sensory perceptions. Regular ecstasy use can evolve quickly into a substance use disorder.

Street Names and Forms

Ecstasy is available in various forms and is often labelled under different street names. Some common street names for the drug include molly (powder form), XTC or E (pill form), and M&M.

Ecstasy is different from many other drugs, which usually come from plants like cocaine, morphine, and nicotine. Instead, ecstasy is made in illicit labs. Since ecstasy is produced in various laboratories, its purity can differ a lot, and other substances can be mixed into the tablets. Common contaminants can include caffeine, ephedrine, ketamine (a mild hallucinogen), and methamphetamine, which can increase potential health risks.

Ecstasy Use and Effects

Ecstasy is a popular recreational drug that induces various psychological and physical effects. Some of its common effects may include:

Increased Energy and Arousal

Ecstasy is known for its stimulant properties, leading to increased energy and arousal. Users often feel a surge of alertness and a heightened sense of physical activity. This could result in engaging in rigorous activities such as dancing for long periods without feeling exhausted.

Mood and Empathy Enhancement

One of the primary effects of ecstasy is its ability to enhance mood and empathy. The drug increases serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which regulate emotions, pleasure, energy, and social bonding. As a result, users may experience happiness and closeness with others.

Physiological Effects

Ecstasy use can also lead to numerous physiological reactions, such as an increase in sexual arousal, abnormal heart rate and blood pressure, and hyperthermia or an elevated body temperature, which may lead to excessive sweating and potential dehydration.

In addition, ecstasy use may also cause nausea, headaches, blurred vision, chills, teeth clenching, and muscle cramps.

These effects can range from mild to severe and may require medical attention in extreme cases. It is important to note that the long-term use of ecstasy can also increase the risk of addiction and adversely affect both physical and mental health.

We offer a wide range of mental health programmes to suit everyone’s needs. This includes counselling for depression or anxiety, a 24-hour telephone helpline, and a range of workshops.

Long-Term Impact on Brain Function

Repeated use of ecstasy may have lasting consequences on the brain’s neurotransmitter systems. Research indicates that ecstasy may be neurotoxic to serotonergic neurons, potentially damaging serotonin production and function in the long term. This could lead to persistent mood changes, including depression, increased anxiety, and even sleep disturbances.

In addition, ecstasy might also raise the risk of lasting, possibly permanent, issues with memory and learning. It also alters perception, leading to feelings of euphoria, heightened touch sensitivity, increased energy, and a stronger desire for physical contact and stimulation.

Understanding Ecstasy Addiction

Ecstasy addiction happens when you become dependent on the drug and experience withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to stop using it. The drug causes a surge of serotonin in the brain, leading to intense feelings of pleasure, which can drive you to use the drug more frequently. Once the effects of ecstasy wear off, the brain craves more, and serotonin levels drop, causing a crash that can last for hours or even days.

Signs And Symptoms of Ecstasy Addiction

When you use ecstasy repeatedly and for a long period, there is a high tendency to develop ecstasy addiction, which requires immediate intervention and support. Some of the signs and symptoms you need to watch out for are:

Constant cravings for ecstasy
Increasing need to take more ecstasy to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you attempt to quit using the drug
Continue using the drug despite negative consequences
The use of ecstasy causes impairment to major areas in your life

Withdrawal Symptoms of Ecstasy

Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms happen when you attempt to stop using the drug. Most of the symptoms include depression, anxiety, mood swings, memory problems, paranoia, as well as eating and sleeping problems.

It is important to note that the intensity of these withdrawal symptoms largely depends on various factors, such as the extent of your ecstasy use, your age, overall health, and genetic predisposition.

Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction

PROMIS is committed to assisting countless people who are struggling with ecstasy addiction. Our treatment facility offers tailored and comprehensive programmes, which may include the following:

Detoxification

The initial stage of ecstasy addiction treatment typically involves detox, during which the substance is cleared from the user’s system. Another drug may be prescribed briefly during this stage to help you with the adjustment.

Although this withdrawal process during ecstasy detox can be challenging as your body adjusts to the absence of the substance, it is a crucial step toward recovery.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient treatment or residential rehab is an essential part of the ecstasy addiction treatment programme. While residing in our treatment facility and receiving round-the-clock care, you will take part in a wide variety of therapeutic activities aimed at aiding your recovery. This includes individualised counselling and therapy sessions, interactive small-group discussions, psychoeducational lectures, and workshops focused on preventing relapse.

This type of treatment offers a safer and more effective approach since you will stay at the treatment centre. This will allow you to focus entirely on your recovery. With 24/7 medical supervision, you will get the necessary care to tackle your addiction fully.

Outpatient Treatment

For those unable to commit to a complete residential treatment programme, outpatient treatment is another option. This programme will allow you to attend therapy sessions and participate in support groups regularly while living at home and maintaining your daily responsibilities.

Outpatient treatment can offer more flexibility but requires a strong support network and dedication to recovery.

Psychotherapy And Support Groups

Therapy is an effective treatment for ecstasy and other drug addictions. This treatment will help you understand the underlying cause of your addictive behaviour, develop adaptive coping strategies to deal with cravings, set achievable goals for recovery, and make lifestyle changes to support recovery.

In addition, support groups are also vital components of ecstasy addiction treatment because these will allow you to share your experiences with others, learn from one another, and build a sense of community.

Aftercare and Relapse Prevention

After completing a treatment programme, the focus shifts to aftercare and relapse prevention. This may involve a regular check-in with a treatment provider, ongoing counselling, and participation in support groups.

By maintaining a commitment to your recovery and treatment programme and being proactive in seeking help, you can significantly reduce your risk of relapse and maintain a substance-free lifestyle.

Holistic and Alternative Therapies

Aside from traditional behavioural therapies, holistic and alternative therapies have emerged as potential interventions for treating ecstasy addiction. Some of the most common holistic approaches include yoga, meditation, and art and music therapy.

These strategies will help you with relaxation, stress reduction, and mental clarity, allowing you to address the emotional triggers of your addiction better. In addition, creative expression provides a healthy outlet for emotions and encourages introspection and self-discovery.

It is important to remember that each person’s journey to recovery from ecstasy addiction drug use is unique; therefore, combining traditional therapies and alternative approaches may be necessary to address individual unique needs and preferences.

Get Help And Start Ecstasy Rehab At PROMIS

Recognising the symptoms of ecstasy abuse is the crucial first step toward regaining control of one’s life. At PROMIS, our rehab treatment offers a comprehensive approach, blending medical expertise with compassionate care. Each treatment plan is uniquely tailored to meet your needs, ensuring the highest chance of success.

Don’t let the grip of ecstasy dictate your future. Reach out to PROMIS today, and let us begin your journey towards a healthier, brighter tomorrow.