MDMA is a party drug which produces an energizing effect and distorts time and perception. An individual who uses the drug will experience stimulating effects and heightened pleasure from tactile experiences. Ecstasy dependence is less likely that in other classes of drugs such as opiates but still has the potential to change the brain’s chemistry.
Dependence vs. Addiction
Dependence occurs when the body, brain and central nervous system become adjusted to the presence of a psychoactive drug. Dependence occurs when continued doses of a drug and the system must adapt to achieve homeostasis. Dependence is not common but withdrawal symptoms do occur. The ‘stacking’ or taking three or more tablets at once has many consequences on individuals’ physical and mental health. Addiction is possible as it is characterized by psychological symptoms of cravings and compulsive use. Addiction can bring up a range of emotions, mental stimulation and increased energy when using which make an individual crave it the more the drug is used which develops from dependence to addiction over time.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dependency on ecstasy can lead to more symptoms than light use when the drug is used more frequently. The most prevalent symptoms of dependence can include:
- Continued use of ecstasy in spite of consequences or side-effects
- Developing tolerance to ecstasy
- Needing time to recover from MDMA’s effects
- Spending time on activities related to use
Psychological Dependence
Chronic users may develop psychological dependence. People with a history of substance abuse may become powerfully psychologically dependent on the drug. Mental dependence on ecstasy is characterized by deterioration in social and professional functioning, cravings and increased tolerance. Larger amounts of ecstasy, when used, include the severity of adverse effects which impact a person’s psychological well-being.
Withdrawal
Ecstasy targets the brain’s neurotransmitters and floods them with serotonin. After effects wear off, there is a deficit of serotonin in the brain and people experience a crash. The crash may trigger feelings of anxiety, depression, paranoia and irritability. Drug cravings, sleep disturbances and other issues may arise. Depleted serotonin levels make a person feel a lack of motivation and drive where it is difficult to concentrate.
Ecstasy use over time can have long lasting and potentially damaging effects on the brain and body. Learning about the effects of the drug is the first step to understanding how addiction begins but it also helps to seek professional support if this is happening to a loved one. Professional assessment and treatment may be able to help diagnose all the issues at play and provide support for recovery.
Hired Power helps individuals with addiction to ecstasy or other drugs. Contact us if you need support or resources to overcome addiction.
