Understanding and Treating MDMA/Ecstasy addiction
- collectivecarereha
- May 7
- 3 min read
Updated: Jun 1
MDMA, which stands for methylenedioxy-methamphetamine, is the primary ingredient in the well-known party drug ecstasy. MDMA's popular street name is Ecstasy (also known as molly), and it's frequently used with other substances to produce more potent or different effects. Regardless of the claimed name, value, and purpose, MDMA and Ecstasy are practically the same substance.
The DEA (Drug Enforcement Administration) classifies MDMA and ecstasy as Schedule I drugs, which indicates that they are very addictive and have almost no medical use. Recovering from an ecstasy addiction is extremely challenging due to its prevalence and addictive nature.
Ecstasy Use
Although ecstasy is usually consumed as a pill, tablet, or capsule, it can also occasionally be consumed as a liquid or powder. Because it is frequently used during dance parties and raves, ecstasy is frequently referred to as a "club drug." However, it is also used at house parties, social events, and with sexual partners. Individuals take ecstasy for effects that include enhanced energy, endurance, sociability, and sexual arousal.
Signs of Ecstasy Use
Every person experiences different signs and symptoms based on the quantity and frequency of drug use. However, the most common signs of Ecstasy use are:
Increased positive sensation.
Increased capacity for empathy.
Dilated pupils.
Unnatural long lasting energy.
Staying awake for days.
Inability to sleep well.
Desire to touch or to be touched.
Nausea.
Headache.
Dry mouth.
Reduced appetite.
Blurred vision.
Anxiety.
Paranoia.
Illogical and disorganised thoughts.
Signs of Ecstasy Addiction
Chronic MDMA usage can result in obsessive behaviours and disregard of significant responsibilities, including relationships, job, school, hygiene and commitments. An addiction may start as a result of this significant change in priorities, following are long term signs of Ecstasy addiction:
Changes in social circle.
Sudden difficulty meeting daily responsibilities.
Reluctance to attend social or family events where ecstasy will be unavailable.
Lying or secretive behavior.
Financial difficulties.
Legal problems.
Inability or unwillingness to quit when ecstasy abuse causes problems.
Hiding the drug around the home.
Mood swings.
Depression and oversleeping when not using.
Other visible signs of substance abuse are:
Consuming ecstasy in excess or for longer than planned.
Failed attempts to reduce the use of ecstasy.
Putting a lot of effort into figuring out how to get, use, or get over ecstasy.
Having intense desire or cravings for the drug.
Risks and effects of using Ecstasy
A lot of people quit using MDMA or Ecstasy without experiencing any issues. However, for most, drug usage can have an effect on mental, behavioural and physical health over time. Long term Ecstasy use can result in severe health conditions, including:
Effect on the Brain: Heavy amounts of Ecstasy abuse includes possible harm to the neurons in the brain that generate serotonin, a neurotransmitter essential for mood, sleep, and thought processes. This may eventually lead to long-lasting mood disorders, attention deficiency, memory impairment, and cognitive decline.
Psychological effects: Depletion of serotonin can cause anxiety and persistent mood disorders. Similarly, difficulty managing emotions, feeling detached from reality, paranoia, delusions and hallucinations are also possible effects of long term use of MDMA.
Behavioural effects: Despite its initial pro social effects, long term use may lead to isolation, increased reckless behaviour including unsafe sex and financial neglect. Poor judgment and problem solving skills are also some common behavioural effects.
Physical risks: Most common physical risks of long term MDMA use are cardiovascular issues including increased heart rate and blood pressure, strokes and heart disease. MDMA metabolism can result in Liver and Kidney impairment. Lowered serotonin levels also affect the libido, resulting in sexual dysfunction.
Treating MDMA addiction
While it may be easier to overcome short term drug use, however, people suffering from chronic MDMA usage may require rehabilitation and de-addiction intervention.
Specialised programs are curated at Collective Care to address the needs of those battling MDMA addiction. Here, patients undergo treatment and detox under clinical supervision, ensuring safety and comfort throughout the process. Along with cultivating life skills and coping strategies for triggers and cravings, we use a range of techniques to address the underlying psychological causes of addiction.
To improve thought and behavioural patterns, our Clinical Psychologists and counsellors use evidence based therapeutic modalities such as:
Mindfulness based therapy (MBT).
Existential Humanistic therapy.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT).
Group therapy.
Help is available
If MDMA/ Ecstasy use is causing problems in your life, support is available at Collective Care to help you cultivate a healthier and drug free life.
