Ecstasy has long been one of the most popular and sought after drugs in America. Known for its ability to produce extreme hallucinations (including both auditory and visual), this drug also produces feelings of euphoria, heightened stimulation, a sense of peacefulness and an increase in desire to touch. Used more commonly on the club scene, this drug can be incredibly dangerous when used even just one time, and continuing to abuse it can not only lead to serious side effects, but can also cause addiction.
Even though much of this information is common knowledge, people of all ages still continue to abuse ecstasy – and are doing so at higher rates than ever before. According to a new report conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), ecstasy related emergency room visits have increased 128% over the past six years.
Causes of The Increase
The most startling piece of information to come out of this report might not be the 128% increase, but where this increase is coming from. The majority of those who are being rushed to the emergency room with ecstasy related concerns are under the age of 21, which is an alarming discovery in itself.
One of the most important things to look at is the presence of ecstasy and ecstasy-related drugs in the media. For example, Molly, which is a “relative” to ecstasy, has gained extreme popularity in both rap and mainstream pop songs, as well as in television shows and movies. The interest in experimenting with this drug can also serve as a gateway to experiment with ecstasy, especially amongst those who are young and susceptible to this type of behavior.
Another popular cause of this increase is not due to the media and celebrities, but due to experimentation gone wrong. According to the study by SAMHSA, over the past six years, 33% of these ecstasy-related emergency room visits showed that patients were abusing both ecstasy and alcohol simultaneously. This combination can be deadly, and serves are an insight into this major increase over the past few years.
Treatment for Ecstasy
Ecstasy and other drugs related to it can be incredibly dangerous and potentially life-threatening if abused or combined with other substances. Therefore, it is crucial that no matter how young they are, individuals obtain treatment for ecstasy abuse. This treatment can include behavioral therapies, as well as individual, group and family counseling. In addition, aftercare options can be provided to help sustain a recovering individual’s sobriety.
