It's common to see drug use in movies, television, and just about everywhere in pop culture, but it’s more dangerous than it seems. The experts at North Georgia Recovery Center are here to share the harsh reality of using common party drugs.
Commonly Used Party Drugs
MDMA (Ecstasy/Molly)
MDMA is a synthetic drug that alters your perception of your surroundings, producing the following sensations:
- Higher energy levels.
- Heightened pleasure.
- Feeling of emotional warmth and closeness.
- Distorted sense of time.
When taking MDMA, the brain produces higher levels of the following neurochemicals:
- Dopamine
- Norepinephrine
- Serotonin
It’s also common for people to experience physical side effects of using MDMA. These symptoms can include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Sleep issues
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Teeth clenching
- Blurred vision
- Chills
- Sweating
- Memory problems
- Decreased appetite
- Aggression
- Dangerously high body temperature
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine, also known as meth, is a highly addictive Schedule II Stimulant, which means that this drug is only legally available in a non-refillable prescription. Although it is important to note that it is very rarely prescribed.
People typically abuse this drug for the following side effects:
- Increased energy.
- Talkativeness.
- Increased pleasure.
- A sense of well-being.
- Euphoria.
- Suppressed hunger.
Because methamphetamine affects the central nervous system, it causes your brain to produce more dopamine. When your dopamine production is too high, it can alter the way your brain works. Prolonged use of methamphetamine can lead to:
- Anxiety.
- Changes in brain structure and function.
- Memory loss.
- Sleep disorders.
- Intense paranoia.
- Hallucinations.
- Violent behavior.
Other long-term physical effects of meth-use include:
- Excessively itchy skin.
- Sores from scratching too hard or too often.
- Extreme weight-loss.
- Rotting teeth.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a very addictive stimulant made from the leaves of the coca plant. Also known as coke, cocaine causes your brain to produce more dopamine, making you feel happier and increasing your energy levels.
Prolonged cocaine use can also lead to:
- Paranoia.
- Irritability.
- Hypersensitivity to light, sound, and touch.
- Loss of smell.
- Asthma.
- Respiratory distress.
- Bowel decay.
- High risk of respiratory infections.
- Nosebleeds.
- Trouble swallowing.
- Constricted blood vessels.
- Elevated blood pressure.
- Restlessness.
- Muscle spasms.
You Can Have Fun Without Drug-Use
Whether you're struggling with addiction or have another personal reason, it can seem difficult to have fun when you’re not partaking in drugs. But when you keep the following tips in mind, you can still go out and have fun while maintaining your sobriety.
You Don't Have to Attend Every Social Event
Whether you’re facing the effects of addiction or you just don’t do drugs, being in environments where other people are using can feel uncomfortable or triggering. Even if you know that you don’t want to use drugs, it can be helpful to minimize your exposure to that type of environment. If you know ahead of time that people will be using drugs or that you may feel pressured to use them yourself, it’s okay not to go at all.
Spend Time With Like-Minded People
Feeling peer pressure or worrying about fitting in can be a big factor when it comes to giving into drug use in a social setting. Fortunately, spending time with friends who respect your wishes can help to prevent this from happening. Not only does it increase your confidence in your choice to be sober, but you’re also less likely to be pressured in the first place.
If You Feel Uncomfortable, You can Leave
Even when you’re completely confident in your ability to say no to drugs, being around too much of it can be an overwhelming experience. Don't worry about being rude to others, you’re more than allowed to leave a social environment that makes you feel uncomfortable to prioritize your wellbeing.
Seeking Help for Addiction at North Georgia Recovery Center
The road to recovery starts with taking the first step. Let us walk alongside you on the path to sobriety and wellness. When you choose to seek drug addiction treatment at North Georgia Recovery Center, you can rest assured knowing that you will be treated by licensed therapists in our state-of-the-art facilities. Every one of our team members is certified to address and effectively treat the issues that come along with addiction.
To schedule your free consultation with our team, call (678) 940-7873 today.