There are many stories about drugs of abuse that force people to struggle with physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms after they stop taking. The majority of the mind-altering drugs like cocaine, heroin and alcohol, aren’t just addictive psychologically and physically addictive too. However, there are other substances commonly used to treat addiction, but do not cause the physical dependence we find when people are addicted to meth or benzodiazepines. If you are one of those who use ecstasy, it can be difficult to determine whether what they’re experiencing is an addiction to ecstasy or not because it’s not always either or the other in the case of 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 crystal form) is a well-known club drug that produces a variety of beneficial effects. People who use ecstasy do it for the euphoric feeling it gives and the effects like euphoria greater connection with others reduced inhibitions, and a sense of euphoria. If ecstasy is misused it could result in unpleasant hallucinations, anxiety attacks, dehydration and even life-threatening health issues like heart attacks and seizures.
Ecstasy was first discovered around 1900 in Germany and is now one of the most sought-after drugs in nightclubs, parties, and in raves. It gained popularity within the United States in the 1980’s and is still the preferred choice for those seeking to improve their social life. However, one question that is frequently asked is whether a person is able to develop an addiction to ecstasy or not.
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Do You Need to Have An Ecstasy Dependency?
Numerous studies have been conducted to determine whether someone can develop an addiction to ecstasy or not. Certain studies suggest yes and others remain undecided. The best method to answer this question is to gain a greater understanding of what constitutes addiction and what is not.
In accordance with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders(DSM-V) Some of the indicators for diagnosing a substance use disorder include the following:
- Continue to abuse the substance for longer time than the time it was intended
- Feeling negative effects from the drug use, but using the substance
- Inattention to obligations and responsibilities at home or at work
- A lot of time using, contemplating using the substances, or locating them to make use of
- Inability to function properly without the use of
These are only a few aspects of diagnostic guidelines that the DSM-V defines for substance use disorders. One of the symptoms that are prevalent for many addicts is the onset of withdrawal symptoms. These result when they are unable to take. However, according to the DSM-V this symptom is not relevant to people who use cannabis, inhalants and hallucinogens such as ecstasy. According to the DSM-V’s criteria for a drug use disorder (the medical term used to describe “addiction”) people may develop an addiction to ecstasy however, it’s usually more psychological than physical.
What is Ecstasy Dependence Look Like?
There is a typical path that the majority of people who find themselves dependent on drugs or alcohol follow. In the beginning, someone begins to consume a substance in ways it’s not intended to be used (e.g. taking more than is recommended or using substances that are not intended to be consumed or consumption, etc. ) that can lead to a pattern of use. Once a person develops an habit of taking some or all of the mind-altering substances and their body begins to become more tolerant to the substances they’re taking. In order for the individual to experience its effects from their selected substance, they must consume more since the body is used to the dose they are used to. Then, a person generally has to increase their intake due to the tolerance they continue to build, which could result in physical dependence. Anyone who suffers withdrawal symptoms (physical or mental the combination of both) in the absence of take the drug they normally take and begins to experience withdrawal symptoms is suffering from dependence. The mental aspect of addiction begins to take hold, and the person no longer believes that they are able to function without taking the drug.
However, when you think about ecstasy, most people don’t experience the physical dependence aspect of the addiction process. Does this mean that one is not able to become addicted to the drug? No.
The ecstasy dependence is defined by the fundamental requirements that the DSM-V defines for addiction disorders involving substance use with the absence of withdrawal symptoms and physical dependence. This is due to the fact that people don’t need to be physically dependent to a substance in order to experience addictive behavior and behaviors. A lot of people who use ecstasy do it because they believe they must do it or because they are unable to have fun and don’t feel connected to others and won’t find it interesting or are unable to find alternative ways to alleviate symptoms of other disorders like depression or anxiety. If a person is unable to mentally function without the use of a mind-altering drug the problem with their addiction is as serious as one that is dependent physically.
It is a blessing that ecstasy addiction has been something that has been addressed for a long time. Through professional therapy as well as pharmacological aids and constant guidance from Rehabilitation Center Ontario, those who suffer from ecstasy addiction are able to stop their use for good once and forever.
