What is Club Drug Addiction?
The term “club drugs” is a name for substances like MDMA (often called Molly or Ecstasy), Ketamine, Rohypnol (roofies), GHB and a few others. They’re popular in places like nightclubs and other party destinations.
Using these drugs can have negative effects and can even change how your brain works. Over time, your brain starts to crave these drugs, even if you know they’re bad for you. That strong feeling of needing them leads to addiction.
Club drug addiction can sneak up on you and cause both mental and physical problems. At first, it might just seem like having fun at parties. But eventually, many people find they can’t have fun without these substances.
Signs and Symptoms of Club Drugs Addiction
Are you concerned someone you know may be addicted to club drugs? Look for these clues:
- Changes in how they act: They might be more secretive. Maybe they’re going to parties or clubs more often. Perhaps they’re hanging out with a new group of friends and leaving old friends behind.
- Physical signs: Watch for things like weight loss, looking tired more often, or having large pupils. If someone is using MDMA, they might also grind their teeth a lot.
- Mood swings: One minute, they’re super happy. The next, they might be sad or even angry. These sudden changes can be a clue that someone is using club drugs.
- Money troubles: Club drugs aren’t cheap. If someone is using them on a consistent basis, they might run out of money or start stealing.
- Ignoring responsibilities: They may forget about homework or skip work altogether. They might stop caring about things that used to be important.
These signs can be intimidating. But understanding them is the first step to helping someone in need. If you or someone you know might have a problem with club drugs, it’s okay to ask for help.
Impact and Effects of Club Drugs Addiction
Club drugs might seem fun in the moment, but the problems start after the party ends.
Club drug addiction can potentially lead to:
- Health problems: These drugs can hurt your body in multiple ways. Some people feel really hot and dehydrated after taking MDMA. Others might have bad stomach aches or even pass out.
- Brain troubles: Club drugs change the way your brain works. This can make it hard to think or remember things. Some people even have hallucinations, seeing or hearing things that aren’t there.
- Emotional pain: Feelings can get all mixed up when on club drugs. Someone might feel sad or depressed after the drug wears off. Others might feel anxious or scared for no reason.
- Risky choices: Being on these drugs can make someone do dangerous things, such as driving when they shouldn’t, or even sharing needles, which can spread diseases.
- Relationship problems: Club drugs can be the cause of intense family fights and arguments. It’s hard to have healthy relationships when drugs are in the picture.
Treatment for Club Drug Addiction
The good news is that people can break free from club drugs and overcome addiction. Here are the most common ways to get help:
- Detox: This is the first step and should be done under professional supervision. It’s about getting the drugs to leave the body in a safe place like a hospital.
- Counseling: A counselor can teach ways to live without drugs and overcome your cravings. They also help with any deep feelings, such as sadness, depression, or anxiety.
- Support groups: Meeting other people who’ve been through the same thing can help. It’s comforting to know you’re not alone.
- Medicines: Sometimes doctors give medicine to help with cravings or other drug effects.
- Stay busy: Doing fun, healthy activities can take the mind off drugs. Sports, art, or hanging out with drug-free friends are great places to start.
Find Help for Club Drugs Addiction
Getting over an addiction to club drugs isn’t something you have to go through alone. Get assistance from professionals who will guide you through every step of the process.
If you or someone you love has a problem with club drugs, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Desert Parkway Behavioral Healthcare Hospital.
