Ecstasy addiction and abuse continue to be issues many people face in the United States. This drug is very dangerous, and recovering from it usually means detox and rehab. In many cases, taking it can be lethal, yet it is still considered one of the most popular party drugs.
Northpoint Washington’s ecstasy addiction treatment program is designed to provide an effective solution to those struggling with this substance use disorder. Our inpatient programs are tailored to the individual’s needs, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), relapse prevention, and other evidence-based approaches. Learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs in Washington by calling 888.450.2153.
Ecstasy Is a Party Drug
Ecstasy is a drug that has been around for a very long time. It is often called a party drug because it is widely used in nightclubs, raves, and other social events. In many people’s eyes, it seems harmless. In fact, it is frequently glamorized in pop culture. Because of this, it is usually seen as being much safer than other types of illegal drugs, which could not be further from the truth.
One of the biggest concerns with Ecstasy is the drug’s inconsistency. When someone gets one of these pills, they can never be completely sure about what they are getting. Dealers mix all kinds of substances together and then stamp them with a nice logo. They have been known to contain:
- LSD
- Heroin
- Amphetamine
- Cocaine
- Methamphetamine
- Caffeine
The bottom line is that this drug is dangerous. Yet, it also continues to be wildly popular because of the euphoric high it produces.
What Are the Side Effects of Ecstasy?
Like every other drug, ecstasy has a list of side effects. People take it because they want to experience the high. But they do not realize they could get more than they bargained for.
Physical Side Effects
The physical side effects of ecstasy include:
- High blood pressure
- Feeling faint
- Panic attacks
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
- A potentially fatal increase in body temperature
The physical effects of this drug can get worse with long-term use.
Psychological Side Effects
The psychological side effects of ecstasy are quite intense. This is to be expected with this drug because these effects and sensations are why people take it.
The most common mental side effects of ecstasy include:
- An enhanced sense of well-being
- Extroverted behavior
- Emotional warmth
- Enhanced sense of empathy
- Enhanced sensory perception
These are good reasons why this drug earned the nickname “The Love Drug.”
Signs You May Be Addicted to Ecstasy
Even though the research might still be ongoing regarding ecstasy addiction, it is possible you could be addicted. If you are but you are not sure, it can help to identify some of the signs and symptoms.
Some of the more common signs of addiction include:
- Forming a tolerance to the drug, which means you need to take more and more of it over time
- Feeling strange once the drug is out of your system, which is called going through withdrawal
- Being unable to stop using ecstasy, even when you have a desire to
- Setting limits for yourself regarding your drug use but being unable to stick to them
- Spending a lot of time thinking about the drug and what it is like to get high
- Feeling the need to use ecstasy more and more frequently
- Mixing it with other drugs or with alcohol to intensify the effects
- Losing interest in favorite activities
- Becoming isolated and spending less time with friends and family
- Keeping your drug use a secret from other people
There are other steps you can take as well to find out if you are addicted to ecstasy. Some people would rather just talk with a professional in an ecstasy addiction treatment program about their situation.
Common Ecstasy Abuse Withdrawal Symptoms
People using ecstasy can experience withdrawal once they stop the use of it altogether. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Symptoms of anxiety
- Intense cravings
- Cognitive impairment
- Symptoms of depression
- Depersonalization
- Hallucinations and delusions
- Excessive fatigue
- Sleeping difficulties
- Loss of appetite
- Mood swings
- Anger and irritability
- Memory loss
- Panic attacks
- Problems with concentration
- Paranoia and psychosis
In general, these symptoms do not start all at once. People usually only have a few of them in the beginning. But it is possible to experience all of the above.
Ecstasy Rehab at Northpoint Washington
Northpoint Washington is located in Edmonds, WA. We are in-network with many of the top health insurance companies in Washington State.
Our 28-day program begins with the detoxification process. This is important because withdrawal symptoms need to be addressed right at the beginning. If this step is ignored, it can be very difficult for a person to be successful. Not only that, but it may also be dangerous if the person is at risk for some of the complications that can accompany withdrawal.
Detoxing typically takes between seven and ten days. Once it is completed, the patient experiences a seamless transition into rehab. During rehab, we treat our patients for co-occurring disorders if they are present. This allows us to understand the reasons behind the addiction, and it brings them to the patient’s attention as well. Our patients undergo several different types of therapy according to what they need. They each receive a personalized treatment plan that is targeted specifically for them. We match them with a therapist who will meet with them regularly. They also participate in group therapy, family therapy, and other types of treatment.
Do you or someone you love abuse ecstasy? Are you concerned that the abuse may have become an addiction? You are not alone, and we are here to help. Contact us at 888.450.2153 to learn more about our ecstasy addiction treatment program.