Effects of Party Drugs: Risks and Rehabilitation

Artwork by

Effects of Party Drugs: Risks and Rehabilitation

Effects of Party Drugs: Risks and Rehabilitation

Medically reviewed by

Written by

Party Drugs Effects report- According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration survey, it is estimated that more than 6,00,000 people under the age of 12 or older were reported to use party drugs like ecstasy and cocaine. The survey also found that 39,000 people, especially the youth between 12 and 17 years old, were MDMA users in the year 2014.

These figures shed light on the urgent necessity for effective prevention strategies and robust support systems to address and mitigate the risks associated with the use of these substances among young people.

Understanding The Addictive Nature of Party Drugs

Party drugs are highly addictive in nature because they act as pain relievers and induce a sense or a feeling of well-being inside the brain cells. Once the person becomes dependent on these party drugs, they encounter withdrawal symptoms as and when they do not take it or when they try to quit it.

It is important that young adults are alert because drugs are increasingly found at private parties, nightclubs, and dance halls these days. Also, since its discovery, these drugs have caused more than 2 lakh dozen deaths around the world.

What Are Party Drugs?

Party drugs, often referred to as club drugs, are a category of substances frequently used in social settings like house parties, college parties, bars, nightclubs, and concerts. These drugs are known for their psychoactive effects, which means they impact the nervous system and alter the user's perception of reality. The use of party drugs is prevalent among young adults, and while many of these substances are illegal, there is also a trend of misusing prescription medications for recreational purposes.

The primary characteristic of party drugs is their ability to alter mood, perception, and consciousness, making them appealing in social and recreational settings. However, their use carries significant risks, including addiction, adverse health effects, and dangerous behavior changes. The illegal status of most party drugs also poses legal risks to users.

Why Young Adults Use Party Drugs: Exploring the Reasons

Party drugs are a common choice among young adults for various reasons. Understanding these reasons can shed light on their social and psychological motivations. Here are the key factors:

  • Curiosity: They want to experience something new and different.
  • Stress Relief: Helps them forget about stress and worries for a while.
  • Social Confidence: Makes them feel more outgoing and connected at parties.
  • Peer Pressure: They try drugs because their friends are doing it.
  • Coping Mechanism: Some use drugs to handle emotional or mental health issues, but this can worsen these problems in the long run.

Paste typeform embed here. Don't forget to delete this before pasting!

Common Party Drugs and Their Effects

Party drugs are a big hit among those who love the nightlife, especially in club scenes where the music and lights create a mesmerizing atmosphere. People use these substances to enhance their experience, with drugs like ecstasy, LSD, and roofies being popular choices.

But what many might not realize is the impact these drugs have on their health, both physically and mentally. Let’s dive into the effects of some common party drugs or club drugs and touch on a few others that are also widely used.

1. Ecstasy

Research studies prove that ecstasy is one of the most popular and common party drugs used by up to 29 million people around the world. Though it is said to promote empathy and make the dance club go crazy and enjoy, it has a very bad effect on the person’s body. Effects of party drug include-

  • It increases blood pressure and heart rate
  • Causes excessive sweating, blurred vision, nausea, etc
  • The person encounters anxiety, depression, weight loss, and sleep disorders in young adults
  • High doses can lead to paranoia and hallucinations
  • A person experiences chill and muscle cramping.

Also, the increased body temperature due to ecstasy can be more significantly dangerous and can be potentially fatal.

2. Cocaine

Coming next to the stimulant properties is Cocaine. It is one of the common illegal party drugs and has around 21 million people using the drug worldwide. Cocaine has worst effects which include-

  • Possible dehydration and overheating can occur
  • Causes high blood pressure and blood vessel constriction
  • Leads to heart attack and stroke
  • Causes bowel decay and speeds the HIV infection.

3. LSD ( Lysergic Acid Aiethylamide)

LSD is a white, odorless powerful hallucinogen that gives a dream-like enhancement when taken in the club parties. It makes the person feel the lights and the music in a more personal way. But, the dark corners of LSD are-

  • It causes prolonged anxiety and depression
  • Leads to hallucinations and PTSD
  • It also causes weakness and numbness in muscles and nausea as well.

4. Roofies

It is one of the sedative drugs such as Valium. The intake of roofies causes a person to encounter with memory issues, dizziness, impaired judgment, and periods of blackout.

5. Bath Salts

These are a kind of synthetic drugs such as cloud nine and blue silk which are the popular names for it. These bath salts are high stimulants about 10 times even more powerful than that of cocaine. Its effects are known to be more toxic like-

  • High doses of bath salts can cause a panic attack, delusions or hallucinations, psychosis and also extreme paranoia.
  • The intake of these salts can lead to violent behavior in person and sometimes can even cause death.

6. Central Nervous System Depressants

GHB (Gamma-hydroxybutyrate) and Rohypnol, popular at parties, act like sedatives. They relax muscles, cause drowsiness, and can make people feel euphoric. However, using them a lot can lead to nausea, confusion, memory loss, passing out, slow heart rate and breathing, lower body temperature, seizures, coma, and even death. These drugs are also infamously used as date rape drugs because they can easily sedate someone without their knowledge.

7. Other Party Drugs

Other common party drugs include mephedrone, amyl nitrates (known as poppers), and various prescription stimulants. These substances, while varied in their effects, share the common risk of serious health implications, addiction, and potential legal consequences.

Recognizing Party Drug Use Signs in Young Adults

Identifying substance use disorder in young adults involves noticing changes in their mood, health, relationships, and daily life activities. Key warning signs include:

  • Academic Issues: Failing grades or skipping classes.
  • Emotional Instability: Sudden mood changes and emotional rollercoasters.
  • Mental Health Concerns: Increased depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of hopelessness.
  • Lack of Focus and Motivation: Struggling to concentrate and pursue goals.
  • Financial Red Flags: Asking for money without clear reasons.
  • Sleep Problems: Insomnia at night, sleeping during the day.
  • Social Changes: Withdrawing from family and old friends, spending time with new friends who use drugs.
  • Physical Health Decline: Skin issues, weight changes, poor grooming.
  • Drug Tolerance and Withdrawal: Needing more drugs to feel effects withdrawal symptoms when not using.
  • Reckless Actions: Unsafe sex, aggression, vandalism, risky driving.

If a young adult shows these behaviors over time, they might be struggling with a substance abuse disorder, possibly involving party drugs or alcohol. Prompt assessment and access to young adult drug treatment are crucial.

Seeking Help for Drug Addiction: Choosing the Right Path

Dealing with common party drug addiction, whether it's your own battle or that of a loved one, is a challenging journey that requires the right support and treatment plan. It's crucial to make informed decisions about rehab and recovery options. For personalized assistance and to discuss the most suitable treatment approaches, you can reach out to us at +91 96111 94949. Alternatively, visiting Cadabam's Anunitha can offer insights into our quality recovery programs designed for effective drug addiction treatment. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing compassionate care and comprehensive support, ensuring a path towards lasting recovery. Remember, taking the first step towards seeking help is a brave and crucial move in the journey to wellness.

Book screening with our director of triage,  Kamlesh Verma
Take the first step

FAQs

What are party drugs and why are they addictive?

Party drugs, often used in social settings like clubs and parties, include substances like MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, LSD, and others. They are addictive because they alter brain chemistry to produce pleasurable effects, leading to psychological and sometimes physical dependence.

What are common party drugs?

The common party drugs include MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, LSD, GHB (Gamma-hydroxybutyrate), Rohypnol (roofies), and sometimes prescription medications used recreationally. These drugs are typically used for their mood-altering effects in social settings like clubs and parties.

How can I tell if someone is addicted to party drugs?

Signs of addiction include changes in behavior like mood swings, neglect of responsibilities, withdrawal from friends and family, financial issues, physical health decline, and continued use despite negative consequences.

Are there effective treatments for party drug addiction?

Yes, there are effective treatments that include detoxification, counseling, behavioral therapies, and support groups. Treatment plans are often tailored to the individual's specific needs.

How long does treatment for party drug addiction take?

Treatment duration varies based on the individual's needs, the severity of the addiction, and their response to treatment. It can range from a few weeks to several months or longer.

What can I expect during the recovery process?

Recovery often involves challenges, including physical withdrawal, emotional ups and downs, and learning new coping skills. Support from professionals, friends, and family is crucial during this time.

Where can I find help for party drug addiction?

Help is available through addiction specialists, rehab centers like Cadabam's Anunitha, support groups, and mental health professionals. You can start by calling +91 96111 94949 for guidance and support.

Share this article on social media

Articles you may like

Also watch