Ecstasy May Be the Drug of Choice for Lonely Teens

by SAMHSA

Over the past decade, ecstasy has become a drug of choice among teens and young adults. It is one of several club drugs, so called because they were once used mostly at dance clubs, bars, and all-night dance parties known as raves. But now, some young people and adults have begun using the drug at home and in other settings.

Because of the happy feelings and desire for touch that ecstasy is reported to bring, it is known as the "love drug" or the "hug drug." It fosters a sense of closeness that many teens crave. But research now shows that the drug may have a special appeal for people who are lonely. Teens and young adults who feel lonely or don't feel like they belong may turn to ecstasy to fulfill their needs. Researchers found that people who don't feel at ease in social settings may turn to ecstasy as a way to loosen up.

Many teens feel lonely at times, but parents can help their teens steer clear of ecstasy by telling them the whole story. To start with, methylenedioxymethamephetamine (MDMA)-another name for ecstasy-is illegal. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration lists it as a Schedule I drug This means that it poses a high risk for abuse and it has no accepted medical use. One danger is that the drug reduces the body's ability to control its temperature and water content. Ecstasy users who are dancing nonstop at clubs or parties can collapse as they become overheated and dehydrated. Ecstasy also can raise a user's heart rate and blood pressure. Other effects include nausea, loss of appetite, jaw tightness, and constant chewing and teeth clenching. Large doses of ecstasy can cause anxiety, panic, and depression.

As if these problems aren't bad enough, ecstasy can affect users for days or even weeks after they take the drug. After-effects can include problems with memory, mood, and concentration. Users also can lose their appetite and have muscle aches, headaches, and problems with balance. Some side effects can be more serious-including heart failure, liver damage, and kidney failure. It may even be possible that heavy and continued use of ecstasy can damage the brain.

For teens who are shy or lonely, counseling offers a safer way to break out of their shell. Prescription drugs also can help with severe shyness. Parents and caregivers should be alert to a young person's social anxiety. Providing the right kind of help can prevent the risks that young people take when they turn to ecstasy to boost their social lives.

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SAMHSA works to improve the quality and availability of substance abuse prevention, alcohol and drug addiction treatment, and mental health services. Includes links to support groups, information resources, events and articles.