We hear a lot about the substances of abuse that force people to grapple with physical dependency and withdrawal symptoms once they quit using. A large majority of the substances that alter your mind like cocaine, heroin as well as alcohol, aren’t just psychologically addictive, but physically addictive as well. There are other substances used to treat addiction, but do not produce the intense physical dependence we observe in those who are hooked on benzodiazepines or meth. For those who take ecstasy, it might be difficult to discern whether the issue is ecstasy addiction or not in the sense that it’s not always all black and white when it comes to this psychostimulant. If you or your loved one is struggling with Ecstasy Addiction, please contact Addiction Treatment Center Ontario today. The team Local Rehab Centers can help you get the treatment you need to get your life back on track.
How do you define Ecstasy?
Ecstasy (also called MDMA or Molly (but only when it comes in the form of crystals), is a popular club drug that has a range of beneficial effects. Those who abuse ecstasy do it to get the effect it creates as well as the effects such as euphoria, greater connection with others diminished inhibitions, and increased arousal. If ecstasy is misused, however, it can cause uncomfortable hallucinations, dehydration, panic attacks, and even life-threatening health issues like heart attacks and seizures.
Ecstasy was first discovered at the beginning of the century in Germany It has since grown to become one of the most popular drugs used in nightclubs, festivals, and at raves. It gained popularity throughout the United States in the 1980’s and is still the most popular drug among those who want to enhance their social life. But, one thing that is frequently inquired about is whether one is able to develop an addiction to ecstasy or not.
Do you have An Ecstasy Addiction?
Many studies have been conducted regarding the possibility of developing an addiction to ecstasy, or not. Some studies indicate yes, while others have a different opinion. However, the easiest way to answer this question is to have a better knowledge of what is considered addiction and what is not.
As per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-V) Some of the diagnoses for a substance use disorder includes the following:
- The habit of abusing any substance for more time than is intended
- Experience negative side effects from substance , yet still taking it in the end
- The loss of sight of the household responsibilities, work, and/or school
- You spend a lot of time using, considering using the substances, or locating them to use
- Inability to function properly without any abuse
These are just some of the diagnostic criteria DSM-V provides for substance abuse disorders. One symptom that is prominent among many users of substances is the onset of withdrawal symptoms, which happen when they are not able to use. But, in the DSM-V, this symptom is not applicable to those who abuse cannabis, inhalants, and hallucinogens like ecstasy. According to the DSM-V’s guidelines for a substance use disorder (the medical term used for “addiction”) people are able to develop an addiction to ecstasy however, it’s typically mental rather than physical.
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What Does Ecstasy Abuse Look Like?
There is a typical path which the majority of people who discover themselves in a state of addiction to drugs or alcohol go through. When a person is first diagnosed, he or she is prone to using a substance in ways that it is not supposed to be used (e.g. using more than recommended or using substances that are not intended to be consumed or use, etc. ) This leads to habitual use. Once a person develops an habit of taking some or all of the mind-altering substances the body starts to become more tolerant to the substances they are taking. This means that in order to experience benefits of the selected substance, they must consume more as the body is accustomed to the dose they are used to. After that, the person typically has to continue to increase their use because of the tolerance they continue to build, which could cause physical dependence. A person who experiences withdrawal symptoms (physical, mental, or an amalgamation of both) whenever they don’t consume the substance that they routinely utilizes and starts to exhibit withdrawal symptoms is in the process of developing dependence. The psychological side of addiction begins to show up, where people no longer feel that they are capable of functioning without taking the drug.
However, when you think about ecstasy many people do not experience the physical dependence part of the addiction process. But does this mean that someone can’t become addicted to ecstasy? No.
A person who is addicted to ecstasy is identified by the fundamental factors that the DSM-V defines for disorders of substance use, with the exclusion of withdrawal symptoms and physical dependence. This is because people do not have to be physically hooked to a drug to develop addictive behaviors and behaviors. A lot of people who use ecstasy do it because they believe they are required to or they cannot have fun, won’t connect with others, won’t be interesting, or cannot find other ways to manage symptoms from other disorders like anxiety or depression. When a person is unable to effectively function psychologically without a mind-altering medication or alcohol, their problem is just as serious as one who is physically dependent.
However, it is something that has been dealt with for many years. With the help of professional therapeutic services as well as pharmacological aids and constant guidance from Rehabilitation Center Ontario, those suffering from ecstasy addiction may stop their use of the drug once and forever.