Healing Your Mind on Molly
MDMA, also known as ecstasy or molly, is a psychoactive stimulant that is primarily used in party settings in order to heighten the experience of the user. When taking MDMA the user can experience enhanced sensations, emotions, and mild hallucinations. The euphoria experienced while using MDMA lasts around 3 to 6 hours on average.
We commonly see the use of MDMA in nightlife and rave culture due to the combination of bright lights, loud music, and high energy in these spaces. However, when the effects it had on humans were discovered, MDMA was used to enhance psychotherapy benefits before becoming a popular street drug in the 1980’s.
In recent years, the return of MDMA in a clinical setting has been quite powerful and is expected to skyrocket in years to come. Currently, the FDA is on track to back MDMA-assisted therapy to treat PTSD by the end of 2024. Public opinion on MDMA-assisted therapy has also shifted in a more positive direction. Many individuals who have experienced significant improvements in their mental health through this therapy have become advocates for it. If MDMA gets the ‘stamp of approval’, the future possibilities of psychedelic use will be limitless.
Therapeutic Benefits of MDMA
Enhanced Empathy and Communication: MDMA has the remarkable ability to increase empathy and enhance communication, allowing patients to more effectively connect with their therapists. This improved therapeutic alliance can lead to deeper exploration of the root causes of mental health issues.
Reduction in Fear and Anxiety: Many individuals with PTSD, social anxiety, and other trauma-related disorders experience debilitating fear and anxiety. MDMA can temporarily reduce these emotions, enabling patients to confront traumatic memories and experiences with greater resilience.
Increased Self-Acceptance: MDMA can help individuals achieve a sense of self-acceptance and self-compassion, which can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with depression, self-esteem issues, and other mood disorders.
Accelerated Healing: MDMA-assisted therapy often provides more rapid progress compared to traditional talk therapy alone, making it a valuable option for patients who have not responded well to other treatments.
Something important to note is that the substance administered in the clinical setting is highly regulated and pure, which is not the case for most MDMA that is bought off the street. The clinical studies surrounding MDMA have administered it to over 780 human subjects, with only one serious adverse event. The patients do, however, endure the common side effects brought on by taking the MDMA. Luckily, they are under the care of professionals who can assist with these discomforts.
When using MDMA, the common side effects are:
Dehydration
Rapid Heart Rate
Memory Impairment
Irritability
Diarrhea
Insomnia
Recreational users have also reported post-use side effects including anxiety, depression, and reduced motivation— A side effect that has not been shown in clinical studies, suggesting that this is not related to the MDMA itself.
The approval of MDMA-assisted therapy represents a significant step forward in the field of mental health treatment. With its potential to alleviate the suffering of individuals with conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression, MDMA-assisted therapy offers hope to many who have struggled with conventional treatments. As research continues to demonstrate its safety and efficacy, the medical and scientific communities are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating this innovative approach into mainstream mental health care.
If you would like to talk more about MDMA or how to use it in safer ways, send us a message and we can meet with you 1-on-1 in order to discuss your concerns!
Sources
Psychedelic Breakthrough: MDMA Revolutionizes PTSD Treatment - Neuroscience News