As a parent, the last thing you want to find is drug paraphernalia in your teenage child’s room. In reality, however, teens are prone to risk-taking and experimentation, meaning they are at a higher risk of test out mind-altering drugs. One particularly popular drug in the young adult demographic (particularly at clubs and raves) is ecstasy, a party drug that can potentially damage teen brains due to its potency. To prevent any problems from spawning, you should always educate your kids about drugs at a relatively early age, so they can establish a well-developed fear or revulsion toward these substances. However, for the parents who are concerned their children may be overindulging, let’s take a closer look at how you can tell if your teen is using ecstasy.
Forms of Ecstasy
Based on reports from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), ecstasy is mainly constructed into a pill or caplet (its alternative form, Molly, is a dangerous powder). In terms of the use of this drug, the following methods are used:
- Stacking: consuming 3 or more tablets in one sitting
- Piggy-backing: consuming a string of tablets in a short time
- Candy-flipping: consuming ecstasy and LSD at the same time
Users will sometimes combine ecstasy with alcohol or marijuana to achieve a wilder effect, as well.
Signs of Ecstasy Use
Based on reports from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), an estimated 43% of teens and young adults who consume ecstasy meet qualifications for chemical dependence. Simply put, this means they will continue to use the drug despite being aware of its potentially harmful effects. Here are some signs your teen may be using ecstasy:
- Psychological: confusion, depression, trouble sleeping, unusual cravings, anxiety, fear
- Physical: tense muscles, teeth gnashing, eye vibrations (rapid movement), feeling faint, chills, sweating, boost in blood pressure, high heart rate
Paraphernalia
Ultimately, if your teen is using ecstasy, you may find a variety of seemingly harmless items in their room. Ecstasy abusers will commonly use pacifiers and lollipops to prevent teeth gnashing. Meanwhile, other people will use surgical masks, vapor rub, or glowsticks to stimulate ecstasy’s effects or trigger episodes after the consumption of the drug. If you do find one or more of these items in your teen’s room and your child meets the criteria for ecstasy abuse, have a talk with them as soon as possible.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.