MDMA is an increasingly popular party drug often known as ecstasy. This synthetic stimulant drug can be found in clubs and at parties across the country and here in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, like other drugs, MDMA disproportionately affects the LGBTQ community. Often taken for euphoric effects and social drug use, MDMA is highly addictive, especially for those with mental health disorders or unprocessed trauma. Luckily, ecstasy addiction treatment is increasingly common and accessible.
If you or someone you love in the LGBTQ community is struggling with MDMA, we can help. Our ecstasy treatment center in Hollywood, California focuses on cutting-edge drug and alcohol detox for the LGBTQ community. With residential, outpatient, and sober living options, La Fuente is here for every stage of your recovery. Call us now at 888.903.9898 to get started.
Is MDMA the Same as Ecstasy?
MDMA stands for 3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine. In short, MDMA is the same thing as ecstasy. A complex methamphetamine, MDMA works by speeding up messages from the brain to the body. Like other stimulant drugs, MDMA raises the heart rate, metabolism, and dopamine levels in the brain. Known as the “pleasure chemical,” increases in dopamine cause feelings of euphoria, joy, and inflated confidence. Some people may become less risk-averse or seek dangerous situations when dopamine levels are high.
Ecstasy is a popular club drug because it causes hallucinations prompted by music, physical movement, and changes in light. Other street names for MDMA include:
- Dizzle
- Dolphins
- E
- Beans
- Brownies
- Cowies
- Crystal
- MD
- Molly
- Mandy
- Mitsubishis
- Pills
- Superman
- Xtc
When someone uses MDMA, they may crave more MDMA because of the dopamine “reward effect” that leads the brain to crave more dopamine, whether found in ecstasy or another drug. The dopamine reward effect can be stronger for those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or unprocessed trauma.
Do I Need Ecstasy Addiction Treatment?
Unfortunately, casual MDMA use at clubs and parties can lead to addiction. For people with low dopamine levels or mental health disorders, MDMA can be highly addictive. Often used for self-soothing or escape, ecstasy addiction can happen quickly. Signs of ecstasy addiction include:
- Craving ecstasy or other drugs
- Drug-seeking behavior
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Weight loss
- Tremors and shaking
- Sweating
- Changes in behavior
- Mood swings
- Changes in breath and body odor
- Aggression
- Unexplained anger
- Insomnia
These and other symptoms can be signs of ecstasy withdrawal. When someone “comes down” from MDMA, their entire body slows down to re-regulate. This can cause lethargy, mood swings, digestive problems, and depression. For some, a comedown can lead to more drug use or other self-soothing behaviors. When ecstasy interferes with daily life, it’s time for treatment.
Inclusive MDMA Treatment in California
Unfortunately, it can be difficult for LGBTQ community members to find safe, inclusive ecstasy treatment centers. In Southern California, we experience high rates of ecstasy use and addiction, making Hollywood a great city for knowledgeable, comprehensive MDMA addiction treatment.
If you or someone you love is looking for compassionate, cutting-edge care for ecstasy, other party drugs, or alcohol, we can help. Our Southern California party drug detox and rehab center provides a compassionate space for LGBTQ community members to recover with medically-assisted treatment and therapies. Our dual diagnosis treatment at La Fuente assesses, diagnoses, and treats mental health disorders to help community members heal holistically. This approach lowers the relapse and reduces addiction triggers.
Learn More About Our Ecstasy Treatment Center in Hollywood California
We know the community is stronger together. That’s why our individual and group therapy focuses on community healing. Call us now at 888.903.9898 or reach out online to learn more about our drug detox programs and ecstasy addiction treatment.
