Since the dawn of time, people have turned to mind-altering substances for a variety of reasons. Fermented plants became the alcohol many keep in their homes today. Opium poppies gave rise to drugs like heroin, while coca plants brought people cocaine. Over time, science has created medications like amphetamines and benzodiazepines, intended for medical use but often misused. Some people use these substances to explore deeper insights, manage mental health struggles, or simply enhance their experiences and let loose at a party. These so-called “party drugs” are often about seeking connection, fun, and freedom, but their impacts run deep.
Ecstasy abuse rehab—or a rehab program specifically designed for the abuse of party drugs like ketamine or gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB)—is recommended for those whose use of drugs has tipped over into abuse and addiction. Managing the effects of party drugs, such as 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)—commonly known as molly or Ecstasy—on the brain is no simple task. If you are concerned about your use of a drug you thought was simply recreational, reach out to The Right Step Houston today by calling 1.844.768.0169.
Understanding Party Drugs
Party drugs, also called “club drugs,” are often available when people gather socially at music festivals, raves, or clubs. They can fulfill any number of functions, from minimizing social anxiety to enhancing sensory experience.
Party drugs come in three categories:
- Depressants – These slow the nervous system and act as downers and include GHB, nitrous oxide, cannabis, and benzos.
- Stimulants – This class of drugs operates as uppers by accelerating your central nervous system and include amphetamines, methamphetamines, or cocaine.
- Hallucinogens – Amplifying and altering reality or causing hallucinations, these include Ecstasy, ketamine, psilocybin, and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).
Some party drugs are more addictive than others, but they all come with significant risks. Most are prohibited outside of prescribed medical use, while others are outright illegal in all circumstances.
Ecstasy
MDMA is both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. It is widely used as a party drug due to its ability to create feelings of euphoria, empathy, and heightened sexual pleasure. However, when abused, its effects can lead to anxiety and intense drug cravings. One of the immediate dangers of ecstasy is its impact on temperature regulation, which can result in hyperthermia. If untreated, this can cause critical system failures, including those of the liver, kidneys, and cardiovascular system, as well as brain swelling and even death.
GHB
GHB is commonly known by names like G, goop, and scoop. It is a depressant that produces feelings of calmness, sociability, euphoria, and relaxation, making it a popular party drug. However, it is also infamously used by sexual predators as a date rape drug due to its ability to incapacitate individuals. GHB poses significant dangers, including damage to memory centers in the brain, as well as risks of seizures, overdose, and even death.
Ketamine
Ketamine, often referred to as Special K or Vitamin K, is commonly used in medical and psychological treatments but has also been misused as a party drug. As a dissociative anesthetic and hallucinogen, it distorts perceptions and creates a disconnect between the user and pain, which many describe as a feeling of losing control. While it has therapeutic applications, ketamine also carries significant risks, including cognitive decline, agitation, depression, and memory impairment. In cases of overdose, it can lead to slowed breathing and loss of consciousness.
Start Ecstasy Abuse Rehab at The Right Step Houston Today
Regardless of the party drug, if any medication or drug is used without regulation, approved dosages, or medical supervision, that is considered abuse. You are at risk when you do not know exactly what you are taking or how to monitor your mental and physical safety. Let The Right Step Houston help you navigate a recovery from party drug abuse. Call 1.844.768.0169 or contact our team online today to connect with us.