The True Dangers of Female Ecstasy Abuse

Ecstasy is a member of a group of substances collectively called ‘club drugs.’ Also known as MDMA, or methylenedioxymethamphetamine, this drug combines traits of the stimulant methamphetamine and the hallucinogen mescaline.

MDMA works by flooding the brain with serotonin, producing a sense of intimacy with others while diminishing feelings of fear and anxiety. However, its physical side effects include an inability to regulate body temperature, which can result in liver, kidney, and cardiovascular system failure. Among its psychological effects are confusion, depression, and addiction, which can last for weeks after taking the drug.

Studies have proven that MDMA affects women more than it does men. Women get more intense highs, but also suffer harder ‘come-downs’, prompting them to take the drug again and again. The purpose for abusing this drug may appear to be easy to understand, but we at Harmony Place believe that there may be deeper issues working to reinforce this kind of addiction.

Since Ecstasy works primarily on emotions, it is important that emotional issues be diagnosed and treated alongside the more obvious physical symptoms of addiction. By addressing maladjusted thought processes and the effects of traumatic influences or aberrant behavior, the effectiveness of our treatment is greatly magnified, and our chances of success become much higher.

We have recognized that women are inherently more social in nature than men. This is why we put great stock in our specialized group therapy treatment methods. Group engagement and honest, objective feedback from members and facilitators allow individuals to interpret and explore possible alternatives to Ecstasy and other substances for personal expression. Most importantly, our focus groups make our guests feel like they belong, raising their self-esteem and bolstering their chances for a full, lifelong recovery.