Is Ecstasy Addictive

Is Ecstasy Addictive 

Ecstasy is addictive. but not nearly as addictive as substances like heroin and cocaine. This central nervous system stimulant often causes a psychological addiction instead of a physical one. Over time, users experience a strong urge to keep using it and need ever-increasing quantities to get the same effects.

Since MDMA affects serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, frequent use can deplete these brain chemicals. This effect can make users feel worse when they’re not high and push them to keep using the drug. They may even have withdrawal symptoms like depression, fatigue, and anxiety if they try to stop on their own. 

If you or someone you know is LGBTQ and struggling with stopping ecstasy use, you can find professional help with Q Space Detox. 

What is Ecstasy?

Ecstasy, also known as molly, MDMA, or 3,4 Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic drug that combines the effects of hallucinogens like LSD with stimulants like amphetamines. The drug was originally created for PTSD treatment because of its calming effects, however, concerns about its safety led to its official discontinuation.

It is now mostly used as a party drug and comes as pills of various colors. Users typically ingest the pill and start experiencing its effects between 30 and 45 minutes after taking it. During this period, they get an energy boost, feel heightened pleasure, and an intense sense of connection with others. By 6 to 8 hours, the drug's effects would have waned. 

Side Effects of Ecstasy

While ecstasy seems to offer a ton of positive effects, its long-term use can be dangerous. It can cause cognitive problems like memory loss, impaired ability to focus, increased impulsiveness, and learning difficulties.

Molly can even make a person's body temperature so high that they get dehydrated, faint, have seizures, or even organ failure. It can also make you nauseous, lose your appetite, and cause headaches, muscle pain, anxiety, paranoia, and confusion when you use ecstasy.

Why Do People Get Addicted to Ecstacy?

Ecstasy addiction can happen for different reasons, and some of them may be out of your control.

Environment 

If you're around people who use drugs, you might feel pressure to try them, too. Lgbtq people who experience childhood abuse or see drug use at home in their early years are more likely to have their own struggles with substance use later.

Genetics

Due to certain genes inherited from parents, some people are way more likely to get hooked on substances than others. You can spot this tendency by observing your family members' relationships with drugs. If there are multiple people with substance use disorders, then the chances of you having it are higher.

Pre-existing Mental Health Conditions

Instead of getting professional support, many LGBTQ people use ecstasy to drown out sadness, stress, and anxiety. While it works for a short time, they are left in a worse position than they started after the drug wears off. Instead of using drugs to cope, you can get help that actually tackles the root issues and leaves lasting change.

Brain Changes

Long-term use of ecstasy causes changes in the way the brain works. The more a person takes ecstasy, the less the intensity of its effects. As they gradually increase their dose, they become dependent, and suddenly quitting can cause withdrawal.

How Can I Spot an Ecstasy Addiction?

Using ecstasy regularly can change the brain in ways that make addiction more likely. While research on MDMA addiction is limited, doctors use the DSM-5 (a mental health manual) to diagnose substance use disorders. 

Signs of molly addiction include:

• Taking more than planned or using it for longer than intended.
• Trying to cut back but not being able to stop.
• Spending a lot of time purchasing, using, or recovering from ecstasy.
• Feeling strong cravings to use it.
• Ignoring responsibilities at work, school, or home because of ecstasy use.
• Continuing to use ecstasy even though it’s causing problems with friends or family.
• Giving up hobbies, work, or social activities to use ecstasy instead.
• Using ecstasy in situations that put you and others in danger. For example, while driving.
• Keeping up the habit even when it’s harming your body or mind.
• Needing more and more ecstasy to feel the same effects.

Ecstasy Addiction Treatment and Rehab

Treatment options for ecstasy addiction include:

• Medical Detoxification: This process helps clear ecstasy from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms safely.
• Residential Treatment: In residential rehab, people can access a structured program where they stay at a treatment center. This program includes therapy, counseling, and support to help people learn coping skills and avoid relapse. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used to help change negative thought patterns and harmful behaviors associated with substance abuse.
• Aftercare: Even after the detox and residential treatment phases, clients still need support for their recovery. Through therapy, support groups, and follow-up programs, newly sober people can sustain this lifestyle.

Q Space Detox Can Help

At our treatment facility, we cater to LGBTQ people with all forms of substance dependence, including ecstasy addiction. We use gender-affirming therapy to give clients a sense of belonging where they do not need to worry about judgment.

With detox and aftercare plans that we create after a thorough evaluation of your specific case, you can leave bad habits in the past and step toward lasting recovery. You can reach us anytime at 305-745-7768. We would love to help.