MDMA, also know as Ecstasy, is a popular party drug among teens and young adults. It became popular in the 1970s and 1980s as a mainstream party drug. Today, Ecstasy is commonly known as Molly. It is both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. The substance is common at clubs, raves, and parties because it lowers inhibition and causes intense feelings of closeness with others.
Ecstasy also increases feelings of euphoria, openness, and affection. The substance often helps people feel more comfortable in social situations and increases their enjoyment of lights and music. However, there are several long-term effects of Ecstasy that can adversely affect a person long after they take it. At Crestview Recovery, we are here to help you learn about the effects.
Ecstasy Abuse Signs
Many people mistakenly believe that Ecstasy is harmless. However, any form of substance abuse can develop into a larger problem. Ecstasy’s enjoyable effects make it desirable, especially to those suffering from mental health disorders. Using ecstasy can cause increased impulsivity, aggression, and moodiness when taken over long periods of time. It can also impair cognitive and memory functioning.
Although ecstasy is not as dangerous as cocaine, meth, or heroin, it can still cause problems in people’s work lives and mental health. Using ecstasy to “escape” from trauma is not an effective way to deal with trauma. This can actually make it worse. If you notice a friend or loved one displaying signs of ecstasy abuse, contact a Portland drug treatment center today. During treatment for ecstasy abuse, it is common for other mental health issues to surface. Crestview recovery has the staff and resources to treat many types of psychological issues.
For example, individuals with depression often have low serotonin levels. The burst of serotonin that Ecstasy causes can elevate their mood, but they may come to rely on the substance over time. Furthermore, the long-term effects of Ecstasy will lead to significantly depleted serotonin levels, making the individual’s depression even worse. If you struggle with drug abuse, contact a drug addiction rehab facility.
Common Symptoms
It’s important to watch out for the signs of Ecstasy abuse in those around you. Some of the most common symptoms of abuse include:
- Sweating
- Reduced sense of pain
- Overaffection
- Dilated pupils
- Blurred vision
- Odd behavior
- Unnaturally sustained energy levels
- Irregular sleep habits
- Paranoia
If you recognize the signs of Ecstasy abuse in someone you love, it’s essential to help them find a comprehensive Ecstasy addiction treatment program before they begin experiencing Ecstasy withdrawal symptoms.
Long-Term Effects
Frequent party or festival-goers are at high risk for experiencing the long-term effects of Ecstasy. Ecstasy significantly increases the production of three chemicals in the brain: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Each of these chemicals controls energy, mood, heart rate, blood pressure, and other bodily functions. When the body begins relying on Ecstasy for the production and maintenance of these chemicals, the individual will experience adverse effects. Some of these include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Decreased cognitive function
- Difficulty sleeping
- Irritability and aggression
- Reduced sex drive
Furthermore, individuals who already struggle with mental health disorders will risk severely worsening their conditions. If someone you love regularly abuses Ecstasy, then it’s important to reach out to them before they begin suffering from the long-term effects of Ecstasy.
Finding Treatment
Don’t let someone you love fall victim to the long-term effects of Ecstasy abuse. At Crestview Recovery Center, we offer a comprehensive MDMA addiction treatment program to help individuals recover from Ecstasy and other party drug addictions. In addition to MDMA treatment, some of our addiction therapy services also include:
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Finally, the help your loved one needs is available at Crestview Recovery Center in Portland, Oregon. Call us today at 866.262.0531 to learn more.
