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What Does Ecstasy Do to the Brain? Effects of MDMA Use

MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy, increases the release of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, creating intense feelings of euphoria, empathy, and heightened sensory perception. Long-term use can disrupt serotonin pathways, leading to memory and concentration problems, depression, anxiety, and impaired decision-making.

Besides health risks, it also carries social consequences, such as strained relationships and academic or occupational difficulties. Awareness and early intervention are essential to prevent addiction and long-term damage.

Long-Term Risks

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Memory Loss
  • Dehydration
  • Seizures
  • Serotonin Syndrome
  • Drug-Induced Psychosis
  • Poor Nutrition & Weakened Immunity
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What is Ecstasy?
Understanding Teen MDMA Abuse

Ecstasy (MDMA) use among teens, while less common than some substances, remains a concern. Approximately 1.3% of teens aged 12 to 17 report using ecstasy, with rates slightly higher among older teens.

Teens often use ecstasy seeking euphoria, enhanced sensory experiences, and social connection, especially at parties or music festivals. Risk factors include peer pressure, exposure to drug-using environments, underlying mental health issues, and histories of trauma or unstable family situations.

At Lotus Behavioral Health, we understand how unresolved mental health challenges, trauma, and peer pressure can increase the risk of teenage drug abuse. Teens have access to evidence-based therapies, medication support, and recovery activities to foster long-term healing and help them make safer choices in social settings where drugs like MDMA are present.

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
  • Family Counseling Sessions
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Group Therapy and Peer Support
  • Trauma-Informed Therapies
  • Case Management & Aftercare Planning
  • Art and Music Therapy
  • Weekly Medication Management

Signs of Ecstasy Abuse in Teens

  • Dilated, Large Pupils
  • Intense Sweating/Trembling
  • Excessive Thirst, Dry Mouth, Teeth Grinding, Jaw Clenching
  • Nausea, Blurred Vision, Vomiting (more common on the “come up”)
  • Increased Energy, Inability to Sit Still, Irritability
  • Anxiety, Paranoia, Depression

Our Approach to Substance Abuse Treatment at
Lotus Behavioral Health

Residential Teen Treatment

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Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

This intensive 7-day program builds on the skills learned in residential settings. Our PHP is designed to meet the unique needs of your family, helping your teen smoothly transition out of inpatient care into a lower level of care.

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Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Our IOP provides a less restrictive treatment approach with meetings 3-4 days a week. This allows teens to live at home, while still receiving intensive treatment.

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Outpatient Counseling for Teens

Virtual and in-person outpatient services allow teens and their families to participate in treatment while still living at home and staying involved in their day-to-day activities.

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Comprehensive Programs for  Long-Term Healing

Residential Teen Treatment

Our safe and structured 4-12 week residential program offers 24/7 care and a blend of evidence-based therapies to treat substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders.

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Partial Hospitalization

This intensive 7-day program helps build on the skills learned in residential treatment. Our PHP includes room and board, where teens continue to live at the facility for the remaining treatment.

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Intensive Outpatient

Our IOP provides a less-intense treatment approach meeting 3-4 days a week, allowing teens to live at home, while still receiving intensive treatment.

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Outpatient Counseling

Virtual and in-person outpatient services allow teens and their families to participate in treatment while still living at home and staying involved in their day-to-day activities.

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Our Approach to Substance Abuse Treatment at
Lotus Behavioral Health

Family-Inclusive Healing Approach

Effective teen recovery involves the whole family. Our treatment programs at Lotus Behavioral Health prioritize family involvement to rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen support systems. By equipping families with the skills to navigate conflict and foster connection, teens have a higher chance of sustained recovery and emotional healing.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Teens receive intensive, evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and medication-assisted treatment when appropriate. These therapies empower teens to change harmful thinking patterns, develop healthy coping skills, and set meaningful recovery goals, supported by licensed clinicians specializing in adolescent care.

Integrated Wellness and Creative Arts

At Lotus, we integrate holistic wellness practices and creative arts therapies into our evidence-based treatment plans to support physical, psychological, and emotional healing. These therapies promote emotional expression, stress relief, and personal growth through art, music, mindfulness, and movement.

Hablamos Español

En Lotus, sabemos que la sanación de la familia no depende solo del idioma. Al eliminar las barreras, apoyamos a los padres para que formen parte activa del proceso de sanación de sus adolescentes. Miembros de nuestro equipo hablan español en todos los departamentos y las sesiones de terapia familiar se pueden realizar completamente en español para garantizar que los padres se sientan comprendidos e incluidos. ¡Estamos aquí para tu familia!
Call Now 833-995-6887

Our Approach to Substance Abuse Treatment at
Lotus Behavioral Health

Family-Inclusive Healing Approach

Effective teen recovery involves the whole family. Our treatment programs at Lotus Behavioral Health prioritize family involvement to rebuild trust, improve communication, and strengthen support systems. By equipping families with the skills to navigate conflict and foster connection, teens have a higher chance of sustained recovery and emotional healing.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Teens receive intensive, evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and medication-assisted treatment when appropriate. These therapies empower teens to change harmful thinking patterns, develop healthy coping skills, and set meaningful recovery goals, supported by licensed clinicians specializing in adolescent care.

Integrated Wellness and Creative Arts

At Lotus, we integrate holistic wellness practices and creative arts therapies into our evidence-based treatment plans to support physical, psychological, and emotional healing. These therapies promote emotional expression, stress relief, and personal growth through art, music, mindfulness, and movement.

Hablamos Español

En Lotus, sabemos que la sanación de la familia no depende solo del idioma. Al eliminar las barreras, apoyamos a los padres para que formen parte activa del proceso de sanación de sus adolescentes. Miembros de nuestro equipo hablan español en todos los departamentos y las sesiones de terapia familiar se pueden realizar completamente en español para garantizar que los padres se sientan comprendidos e incluidos. ¡Estamos aquí para tu familia!

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Call Now 833-995-6887

Academic Program

Lotus Behavioral Health holds both treatment and academics equally important. We understand that many teens who enter treatment may fall behind in school, creating extra challenges when they transition back to their daily lives. Teens in our program can receive academic support to help ensure they don’t fall behind and get up to speed on any material they missed during their time in treatment.

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LGBTQ+ Safe Space

We are committed to providing an affirming and inclusive space where LGBTQ+ teens feel respected and free to be themselves. Our culturally responsive clinicians are trained to address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, delivering care that celebrates diversity and fosters self-acceptance. We champion safety, understanding, and empowerment for all identities within our community.

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1030 Spring Villas Point Winter Springs Fl 32708
Hours
Monday – Friday
9:00am – 5:00pm

Frequently Asked Questions About Ecstasy Use in Teens

What is Ecstasy (MDMA) and How Do Teens Use It?

Ecstasy, also known as MDMA or Molly, is a synthetic drug that acts as both a stimulant and a hallucinogen. Teens typically take it in pill or powder form at clubs, parties, or concerts to experience euphoria, increased energy, empathy, and sensory enhancement. Effects last 2-6 hours but come with serious risks.

What are the warning signs of ecstasy use in teens?

Physical signs include intense sweating, chills, rapid heartbeat, muscle cramps, dry mouth, dilated pupils, and teeth grinding. Behaviorally, teens may show increased energy, heightened sensory responses, confusion, paranoia, risky behavior, changes in social circles, and a decline in school attendance.

What are the risks and long-term effects of ecstasy use in teens?

MDMA can cause dehydration, overheating, seizures, and organ damage. Long-term abuse risks include memory problems, depression, anxiety, nerve damage, and even death. Teens are particularly vulnerable because their developing brains are at greater risk for addiction and cognitive impairments.

Help Your Teen Find Peace, Strength, and Support with Family-Focused Addiction Treatment

Help your teen begin the path to recovery. Contact our admissions team today for compassionate, private support.

lotush behavioral health
Lotus Behavioral Health - Teen Treatment Center
Hours
Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM