Is someone you know becoming an ecstasy addict? Ecstasy, or MDMA, is a powerful stimulant that is, indeed, addictive.
Not the most addictive of stimulant drugs, but definitely a threat. Like other addictive drugs, MDMA alters our central nervous system, increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. MDMA addiction is one of the more poorly understand substance dependencies—historically, overdoses have been the main concern—but it definitely exists.
Like other “party drugs” that target the same brain region – cocaine, crack, meth – MDMA is often used in rapid succession, for several days straight. These binges have unpleasant, albeit shorter-lasting (typically a week or so), repercussions. Users feel sad or lethargic for up to a week afterwards, and may feel the urge to use to stave off the withdrawal. As users take more and more of the drug, the brain processes responsible for regulating their habit begin to lose functionality, and with insomnia, poor appetite, and a lack of libido irking at them, the temptation to take more MDMA becomes increasingly difficult to resist. Add to that the fact that MDMA users tend to be young, often under the age of 20, and it is easy to understand how such an impulsive habit can form.
MDMA users are not necessarily addicts; the drug has much less potential for abuse than many of its stimulant counterparts. (In fact, many health experts, especially psychiatrists, view MDMA as yielding potential medical benefits, despite its Schedule 1 status.) Still, dependency does happen.
Here are some signs of MDMA dependence:
- inability to control or quit MDMA use
- persistent use of MDMA despite physical and physiological damage
- skipping out on hobbies and activities to use MDMA
- trouble managing time and finances due to the habit
- losing the ability to moderate doses of MDMA
The first step toward beating an MDMA addiction, like all addictions, is acknowledging that you have a problem. Then comes the doctor's visit. Consult with your physician to figure out an affordable treatment program, of which there are many, that suits you. To get an idea of our approach to MDMA addiction, please explore our website.
For further information, give us a call: 888-280-4763.
Addiction can be a tough problem to admit. Remember that it is a disease; like all other diseases, it generally requires medical intervention.
However you wound up in your current situations, your main concern should be getting out. Not hiding.
