Despite its recreational use, MDMA (also known as ecstasy) is one of the most commonly abused drugs in the world — and sadly, it can cause serious damage to both physical and mental health.
From depression to cardiovascular problems, a substance abuse problem involving MDMA can have devastating effects on your well-being if not treated properly. Fortunately, there are various types of rehabilitation programs available that provide therapeutic approaches to help individuals recover from this powerful stimulant. Lantana Recovery offers rehab services for MDMA.
In this blog post, we’ll explore different treatment options for MDMA addiction as well as discuss why seeking professional help as soon as possible is so important when it comes to managing any form of substance dependence.
What is MDMA
MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or “Molly,” is a chemical compound used primarily in recreational settings to produce feelings of euphoria and increased energy. It is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance in the United States, meaning that it has a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use.
MDMA works by increasing the activity of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine in certain parts of the brain. This causes an increase in energy, alertness, pleasure, and emotional closeness. In larger doses, however, these effects can become overwhelming and even dangerous.
MDMA addiction is a growing problem in the United States with an estimated 1 million people have tried it at least once in their lifetime. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that 3% of Americans aged 12–17 had used MDMA at least once in the past year; this figure increases rapidly after age 18 with 6% of adults aged 18–25 having used MDMA at least once during this period.
Treatment Options for MDMA Addiction
Those struggling with an addiction to MDMA seeking treatment should contact a rehabilitation center for help. Rehab centers offer a wide range of treatment options including inpatient and outpatient services.
These programs are designed to address the underlying causes of addiction such as mental health issues like depression or anxiety which may contribute to substance abuse problems.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient Rehab is considered the most intensive form of treatment for MDMA addiction, as it involves living in a residential facility for a period of time. This type of program offers round-the-clock care and support from addiction specialists, therapists, and other professionals who can provide a safe environment for individuals struggling with addiction.
Inpatient Rehab programs are designed to ensure that patients are able to address the underlying issues which may have caused their drug use in the first place. Although this is the least prescribed course of treatment for MDMA addiction as it is rarely severe enough to require 24/7 care.
Partial Hospitalization Rehab
This type of rehab does not involve staying in a residential setting; instead, individuals attend treatment during the day and return home at night or on weekends depending on their needs.
This type of rehab generally includes individual counseling sessions with a therapist or counselor as well as group therapy sessions where individuals can learn more about addiction recovery while receiving support from peers who are facing similar struggles.
Partial hospitalization rehab programs may be appropriate for those looking for a more intense level of care than outpatient rehabilitation but who may not require around-the-clock monitoring offered by an inpatient program.
Intensive Outpatient Rehab
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) offer individuals several hours of treatment throughout the week such as individual counseling sessions with therapists or counselors, group therapy sessions facilitated by experienced staff members as well as educational classes on topics such as relapse prevention strategies and healthy coping skills.
IOPs provide some structure for people struggling with addiction while still allowing individuals to maintain regular activities such as school or work commitments depending upon their needs and ability to remain sober outside of treatment settings. Intensive outpatient rehab is most commonly recommended for MDMA addiction treatment. Lantana Recovery offers outpatient addiction rehab services for MDMA addiction.
Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient Rehab is typically considered the least intensive, however, it can still be effective for those looking for long-term recovery from MDMA abuse and addiction. Outpatient programs involve attending 1-2 hour group therapy sessions each week alongside other individuals overcoming substance use disorders
These groups typically include both educational components related to sobriety such as learning about triggers and relapse prevention strategies alongside peer support. Outpatient rehab is most commonly recommended for people with mild MDMA addiction.
MDMA: Dependence vs. Addiction
The difference between MDMA dependence and addiction lies in the severity of the effects on both the body and mind. MDMA dependence is considered less severe than addiction as it only involves physical or psychological reliance on MDMA, while addiction includes compulsive behaviors which cause disruption in a person’s life.
Dependence may not necessarily lead to addiction but the addiction often develops when someone becomes dependent on MDMA. Addiction also has much more intense cravings associated with it compared to just dependence; these cravings can last long after a person has stopped using MDMA and make it difficult for them to resist using again in the future.
MDMA Addiction Symptoms
Physical Symptoms
Symptoms of MDMA addiction can vary depending on the individual, but there are some common signs to look for. These include:
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Dehydration
- Hyperthermia
- Reduced appetite
- Tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle cramps
All of these are caused by physical dependence on the drug. In more extreme cases, people addicted to MDMA can experience seizures, stroke, or even cardiac arrest due to their bodies being unable to sustain the strain that is put on them. Our team at Lantana Recovery offers professional help for anyone experiencing MDMA addiction symptoms.
Psychological Symptoms
Psychological symptoms of MDMA addiction are just as serious as physical ones. Those who are addicted to this drug may experience a strong craving for the drug, depression, or anxiety due to changes in brain chemistry caused by prolonged use.
They may become easily irritable or have difficulty focusing on the tasks at hand. They may also struggle with low self-esteem and have difficulty dealing with everyday situations and people around them.
These symptoms, if left untreated for longer, can have serious effects. So if you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these symptoms, our team at Lantana Recovery can help with diagnosis and treatment.
Diagnosing MDMA Addiction
Diagnosing MDMA addiction in someone else is not always an easy task; however, there are some signs to look out for when attempting to recognize addiction. A person who is addicted to MDMA may be more energetic than usual and their speech could become faster.
They could also have strong cravings for the drug, appear depressed if they do not receive the substance, exhibit reckless behavior, and experience extreme euphoria after taking MDMA.
If a person is showing signs of addiction, it is imperative that they seek the assistance of an addiction specialist immediately. This will allow them to get a proper evaluation and discuss the various treatment options available to them.
MDMA Addiction Treatment Options in South Carolina
MDMA addiction is a serious issue that is becoming more widespread in South Carolina. Despite the prevalence of this substance abuse problem, there are many treatment options available in South Carolina to those who are struggling with MDMA use disorder.
MDMA Rehab in Charleston
In Charleston, rehab centers offer comprehensive care and services tailored to individuals who need help overcoming their substance abuse problems. These centers provide counseling, group therapy, 12-step programs, and other forms of support to help patients overcome their dependence on MDMA.
Additionally, Charleston rehabilitation centers like Lantana Recovery often offer medication-assisted treatment which can reduce cravings and make it easier for people to stay clean.
Molly Treatment for Greenville Residents
Greenville residents also have access to Molly treatment programs designed specifically for those struggling with MDMA addiction. Programs such as these recognize the unique challenges faced by people in this city and provide customized support that meets the needs of each individual patient.
These addiction treatment centers in Greenville offer cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, contingency management, and relapse prevention strategies that can help patients make lasting changes in their behavior and lifestyle so they can live healthier life without the use of drugs.
Lantana Recovery extends Molly addiction treatment services for Greenville locals.
MDMA Drug Treatment Services Extended to Columbia
Columbia residents have access to specialized MDMA drug treatment services offered through local hospitals and clinics. These services often include residential care or intensive outpatient programs that focus on both physical and psychological health issues related to MDMA use disorder.
Treatment plans at these rehab centers in Columbia may incorporate medication-assisted therapies to help reduce cravings and improve adherence to abstinence from the drug. Other treatments may involve cognitive behavioral therapy or family counseling sessions which can help individuals develop better-coping skills and identify triggers for drug use before it leads to relapse. Lantana Recovery extends MDMA drug treatment services to the residents of Columbia, SC.
MDMA Addiction: Long-Term Effects
Although it can be taken safely in small doses, there are both short and long-term adverse consequences of regular or frequent use. Long-term effects of MDMA use include an increased risk of serotonin syndrome, cognitive damage due to persistent changes in brain chemistry, long-lasting stress and anxiety problems, and physical health issues related to dehydration and appetite loss.
In addition, regular users may experience confusion, impaired memory and concentration, dissociation from reality, and immune system dysfunction. In light of these side effects, it is important to avoid using MDMA or only use it occasionally in very small quantities.
MDMA Treatment FAQs
Can I go to detox for MDMA addiction?
Yes, you can go to detox for MDMA addiction to avoid facing any health complications caused by the MDMA withdrawal.
Can I attend inpatient rehab for MDMA addiction?
Yes, you can attend inpatient rehab for MDMA addiction if you have a severe addiction to the substance and if you can afford the cost of an inpatient rehab.
Can I enroll in outpatient rehab for MDMA addiction?
Yes, you can enroll in outpatient rehab for MDMA addiction, in fact, it is the most commonly prescribed treatment for MDMA dependence.
Can I Overdose on MDMA?
Yes, you can overdose on MDMA, and it is pretty common as users often take higher quantities of drugs to achieve the desired high. This often results in an MDMA overdose.
Final Thoughts on MDMA Addiction Treatment
If you think you might have an addiction to MDMA, it is important that you seek help right away by contacting a local rehab center, like Lantana Recovery, trained in treating substance abuse issues related to this particular drug.
Ultimately you need to find the program that best suits your individual needs so that you can get on the path towards sobriety and live a healthier life without relying on drugs like MDMA for comfort or relief from unwanted feelings or situations.
