How Ecstasy Affects Brain Chemistry
Ecstasy is an illicit psychoactive drug that is most commonly used in a social setting, such as at nightclubs or raves. Ecstasy is also known as “molly,” and is taken for its stimulant and hallucinogenic effects. Those who take this drug will immediately feel euphoric and more social than normal; they might experience some physical symptoms like increased blood pressure and heart rate, profuse sweating, and an inability to sit still or control their motor functions. They will typically talk excessively and sensitivity to light, sound, and feeling will be greatly enhanced.
While ecstasy is not physically addictive, it can cause psychological dependence in a short period. Many negative effects coincide with ecstasy abuse – we have listed several of the negative effects below. Take a look, and if you are personally suffering from a drug abuse disorder of any kind, give us a call today. Agape Treatment Center has developed a comprehensive and highly individualized program of addiction recovery that is both effective and reputable.
The Effect That Ecstasy Has on the Brain
When taking a closer look at the way that ecstasy affects the brain, it becomes clear that three main neurotransmitters within the brain are directly impacted – dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Ecstasy causes these three neurotransmitters to be released more than they normally would be, leading to feelings of intense pleasure and euphoria. The mood is increased significantly and short-term, and those who use the chemical substance experience a “come down” once the drug wears off, meaning they feel emotionally depleted and slightly depressed.
The drug is short-acting, meaning that the effects take place quickly and do not last for a very long time – typically between three and six hours. There are many short-term and long-term effects of ecstasy on the brain. Short-term effects include changes in the actions of neurotransmitters, as discussed previously. Long-term effects of ecstasy on the brain include:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Irritability
- Significant mood swings
- Impulsivity and an increase in risk-taking behaviors
- Depression
- Insomnia and other sleep-related disorders
- Difficulty concentrating
Agape Treatment Center – Individualized Addiction Treatment
The Agape Treatment Center is dedicated to tackling all of the symptoms of addiction and taking all of the underlying causes of addiction into careful account. We understand that those who are suffering at the hands of an ecstasy abuse disorder are likely experiencing a host of contributing factors when it comes to their addiction, such as undiagnosed or unmedicated mental health issues and unresolved, underlying trauma. Our program of recovery is highly integrated, meaning that we address the physical, mental and emotional components of substance abuse and dependence.
Our program of recovery is highly individualized; As soon as a client is admitted to our program of recovery, he or she undergoes an in-depth evaluation, which lets us know what substances were being abused, personal history of substance abuse, family history of addictive disorders, and whether or not any underlying mental health conditions are present. Based on these findings, our clinical team and case managers develop an individualized treatment program that includes a plan for inpatient treatment as well as aftercare. It is important to recognize and understand that addiction recovery is far from a one-size-fits-all process and that those who are suffering from an addictive disorder of any kind need personalized care.
Help With Ecstasy Addiction and Abuse
If you or someone you love has been abusing ecstasy or any other psychoactive drug abuse disorder, we are available to help. For more information on our program of clinical care, give us a call today. We are looking forward to speaking with you and talking through all of the treatment options that are available to you.
