MDMA, also known by its street name Ecstasy or Molly, is a synthetic drug that holds a unique position in the world of substance abuse problems. Because the drug produces effects that fall into two distinct categories – 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine – the risk for addiction and other serious side effects is high.
If you or someone you care about is experiencing problems or addiction to MDMA, Tree House Recovery is here to help. Through our specialized drug rehab in Wilmington, North Carolina, our specialized team of professionals is ready to help people recover from addiction and maintain sobriety through holistic, evidence-based treatments.
Contact our admissions team today, either over the phone or online, to learn more about our ecstasy treatment program.
Understanding Ecstasy Addiction
Like many other drugs, Molly is an addictive drug for some people. Some studies have found that some people have reported symptoms of an MDMA substance abuse disorder (SUD), meaning that they have developed dependency, tolerance, withdrawal side effects, and cravings for the synthetic substance.
What Is Molly the Drug?
People experiencing Ecstasy addiction report feeling happy, energetic, alert, and closer to others. Some people also report an increase in their sensitivity.
These effects result from the synthetic drug activating at least three neurotransmitters in the brain that strongly influence a person’s serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine levels.
Is Molly Addictive?
While Ecstasy may not be as addictive as other addictive drugs like cocaine, the substance can cause harmful and potentially serious health effects, including:
- Higher blood pressure
- Vomiting
- Hyperpyrexia (increasing body temperature)
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Memory or attention problems
- Heart problems
- Liver problems
While deaths related to Ecstasy overdose are relatively low compared to other synthetic drugs, the rise of MDMA contamination with harmful and dangerous opioids like fentanyl has created a spike in overdose deaths in North Carolina.
In 2021, North Carolina reported a 22% increase in overdose deaths, with 77% of these deaths involving fentanyl or a combination of it with other substances. With overdose deaths increasing rapidly, seeking help for substance abuse addiction is as essential as ever.
When To Find Ecstasy Addiction Help
MDMA can create several problems for people experiencing addiction. There are several indicators that you or someone you know is experiencing MDMA addiction:
- Intense cravings for more of the drug
- Increasing tolerance to Ecstasy’s effects
- Withdrawal following a drop or halt in your Ecstasy use
Signs and symptoms of Molly withdrawal may indicate that seeking help is a good option to consider to prevent relapse and the increased chances of a fatal overdose.
Side Effects of Ecstasy Addiction
When someone who has become dependent on MDMA quits the drug, they will start to experience withdrawal. Their brains are trying to relearn how to operate without the substance, creating side effects that are typically the opposite of the drug’s effects.
Some of the MDMA withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Cravings
- Agitation
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
Because the drug is often cut with other illicit substances, such as heroin and ketamine, or taken alongside drugs like marijuana, cocaine, or LSD, identifying withdrawal symptoms from MDMA addiction can be difficult.
It is hard to know what is in each pill of Ecstasy, and each person will likely experience different withdrawal symptoms. MDMA withdrawal symptoms usually peak within a few days of quitting the drug and last for about four to 10 days. After two weeks, most withdrawal symptoms will have subsided.
Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction in North Carolina
Tree House Recovery understands that addiction is a complex, life-altering disorder. That is why we are here to provide the help and resources you need to choose the best addiction treatment for you and your needs.
Ecstasy Addiction Treatment Centers
Finding the right drug rehab takes time, research, and dedication to finding the best path toward recovery for you or your loved one.
Understanding the different types of rehabs available can help create a personalized plan for substance abuse treatment that works for you, not against you.
Ecstasy Addiction Detox
For those struggling with Ecstasy addiction, the early stages of recovery require detox. While Tree House Recovery does not offer a detox program in North Carolina, we partner with local detox centers to ensure that you or your loved one receive the necessary support during this critical recovery phase.
Inpatient Ecstasy Addiction Treatment
Inpatient rehab for MDMA addiction offers 24-hour supervision with structured therapy. Since many patients in this treatment program will still be in the early stages of their addiction recovery, they may still be experiencing post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).
The high level of supervision at this level of treatment can help prevent relapse as the brain begins to heal through the program’s therapies. Ideally, these programs typically last 30 days.
Tree House Recovery can recommend trusted partner rehabilitation centers that offer reliable inpatient programs for those seeking this level of care.
Outpatient Ecstasy Rehab
Outpatient Ecstasy rehab is the next stage in the recovery process and includes three levels of care:
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient programs (OP)
This level of care typically lasts three to five months, and it is vital for clients to take the time needed to heal their minds and bodies while regaining the socialization skills necessary to enjoy a substance-free life.
While our other Tree House Recovery addiction treatment centers in the U.S. offer PHPs for alcohol and drug treatment, our North Carolina Ecstasy rehab is an IOP.
In our IOP for Molly treatment, clients can continue their personal and professional lives while attending a 90-day program in the evenings on weekdays. Clients in the program will address addiction’s three core components:
- Biology: The brain and the body are connected. Effective treatment, which includes fitness, supports overall well-being through daily practice.
- Psychological: Recognizing triggers and developing coping skills through understanding traumas and negative thought patterns can help build strong prevention skills.
- Social: A supportive community that promotes healthy, sober living is the key to achieving long-term, fulfilling sobriety.
Clients are rebuilding their lives, and Tree House Recovery is here to help them build the foundation of the life they want to live through exercise, therapy, and community bonding.
Aftercare for Ecstasy Treatment
Maintaining the skills in your recovery toolbelt is essential for long-term sobriety. Aftercare at Tree House is tailored to our graduates’ needs. Alums are also welcome to come to the center and work out, which helps them maintain a daily routine and a sense of community that supports sober living.
Strengthening relationships with loved ones can also play a crucial role in sobriety. That’s why we offer a family program and support groups. Through addiction education and increased understanding, families can become stronger support systems for those in recovery.
Tree House Recovery North Carolina Drug Rehab
Ecstasy addiction treatment is essential to recovery. Tree House Recovery NC is here to provide the support you need to start your journey toward sober living.
To learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs or how you can enroll in our IOP, contact our admissions team at (910) 812-1728 or online today.