At Northbound we understand that addiction is a progressive disease. What starts out as occasional MDMA or ecstasy use at parties can quickly turn into a daily use of substances.
What is MDMA/Ecstacy?
More commonly known as ecstasy, MDMA is an empathogen that falls under the amphetamine class of drugs (though it is also known as a form of hallucinogen, though not a classic psychedelic type). Commonly taken in pill form (though it can also be snorted or swallowed in powder form), ecstasy causes a sense of intimacy with others, euphoria, diminished anxiety, and low levels of psychedelia. Thus, ecstasy combines the effects of a psychedelic and a stimulant.
Effects of MDMA
Those under the influence of MDMA experience heightened sensations that are amplified by visuals, sounds, touch and smell. Physically, the drug causes the pupils to dilate and increases sensitivity to light. Some users may clench their jaws or grind their teeth, and loss of appetite, insomnia and vertigo may also occur. Use of MDMA accompanied by physical activity (such as dancing) without sufficient fluids can result in hyperthermia (a dangerous increase in body temperature), which can be fatal. Overdose, though rare, can result in a variety of dangerous and even fatal conditions, including cardiac arrest, hemorrhaging, and coma.
Because MDMA affects serotonin levels, use is often followed by a period of depression while the body stabilizes again. Long term use can result in depression and anxiety, and scientists are still evaluating the possibility that abuse of the drug could have a lasting effect on the brain. Those who become dependent on ecstasy often experience harm to their mental and psychological health, and addiction can slowly deteriorate relationships with family and friends. Frequent users of MDMA often use other drugs as well, making it critical to intervene and persuade them to seek the treatment they need before further harm can occur.
Treatment for Ecstacy Addiction
As with all drugs that have such a powerful effect on mood and the addict’s ability to experience pleasure, one of the most important steps in the recovery process for the individual who is dependent on MDMA is helping him learn how to find balance and happiness in a healthy, sober life. At Northbound, we offer a variety of different counseling models, including experiential therapy, meant to help those in recovery find meaning and hope in their new start.
Our experienced clinical staff will create an individualized treatment plan that takes into account the client’s specific needs and challenges—including simultaneous treatment for any co-occurring mental illness that could inhibit the recovery process. Our ecstasy rehab will challenge the client, helping them both set and achieve goals and helping create the support system needed for a successful long-term recovery. If you or someone you love is dependent on MDMA, Northbound can help. Contact us today with your questions or concerns and take the first step to a new life.
The use of ecstasy has been associated with impaired mental health functioning and impaired judgment. While under the influence of the drug, users may sometimes experience confusion, disorientation, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, insomnia, depersonalization, derealisation, perceptual disorders and hallucinations, paranoia and psychotic phenomena. It is possible that some of these effects may continue for a period after cessation of the drug (1).
Ecstasy abusers may have severe mood and thought disturbances after they stop using the drug. It is important that ecstasy users understand the neurological damage prolonged ecstasy abuse can have on the brain.
Here are some methods we use to treat Ecstasy abuse at NTS:
- Biological Effects of Ecstasy Abuse Education
- Initial Psychological Evaluation to diagnose any mood or thought disorders that may have resulted from ecstasy abuse.
- Psychological Testing Battery to determine any neurological impairment that may have occurred.
- Medication Assessment
- Relapse Prevention to address triggers such as music or events specific to ecstasy abuse that may lead to a relapse.
- Group Therapy
- Narcotics Anonymous
- Experiential Groups – Which may include our dance and movement group
- Individual Therapy
- One-on-One Case Management
1.McCann, U. D. & G. S. Ricaurte (1991) Lasting neuropsychiatric sequelae of 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphet-amine (MDMA) J. Clin. Psychpharmacol. 11: 302-305. McCann, U. D., Shiyoko, O. S. and G. S. by Dr. Karl Jansen Ricaurte (1996) (USA) Adverse reactions with 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphet-amine (MDMA; Ecstasy) Drug Safety 1996 Aug. 15 (2) 107 ­p; 115.
Get Treatment for Ecstacy Addiction at Northbound
Addiction is a terrible burden—not just on the one suffering from dependency, but for his or her loved ones as well. If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to cocaine, Northbound is here to help. With a 1:1 ratio Case Managers to Clients, we maintain our commitment to the recovery process. We will be there to help celebrate that critical first year of sobriety.
At Northbound, we challenge our clients to make a real change to a healthy and sober life. If you have questions about our program, contact Northbound today. Our staff is ready 24 hours a day to help you take the first step toward living sober.
