Shortness of breath, tense muscles, and a constant state of worry are feelings all too familiar to anyone who suffers from anxiety. While it is natural to feel occasional stress and anxiety, persistent anxious feelings can cause you to have trouble with your day-to-day life. Most people rely on medications to manage their anxiety, but about 20% of people with an anxiety disorder also suffer from substance abuse disorder. [1] This is because a lot of people with anxiety try to manage their symptoms by self-medicating, and this can eventually lead to substance use disorder or addiction. When anxiety and addiction coincide, one can not be treated without treating the other. Treatment for anxiety and addiction requires a dual diagnosis rehab center to recover fully.
Why do Anxiety and Addiction Co-Occur?
There is still research to be done on the exact reason why these two conditions so often co-occur, but the general theory is that self-medication is a significant factor. Many people rely on alcohol or prescription drugs to help them through stressful events like meeting new people or flying on a plane. While it seems harmless enough, these substances only serve to fix a symptom of a bigger problem. Additionally, self-medication can also increase your feelings of anxiety. Thus, a vicious cycle is created.[2] If you try to make it through without your substance of choice, you will likely feel even more anxious than you initially did. Your tolerance will begin to build, then physical dependence is created and soon an addiction.
How Can a Dual Diagnosis Rehab Facility Treat Anxiety and Addiction?
When addiction and anxiety coincide, it is not always obvious that the substance is simply a crutch for your anxiety. So, when you try to quit using, your overwhelming anxiety comes back in full force. That is what makes it so hard to stop using, and why treating both anxiety and addiction is key to a sober life. Dual diagnosis rehab centers treat both conditions simultaneously, usually with three methods:
Medical Detox
To safely rid your body of toxins caused by substance abuse, medical detox is necessary. Detox should be done in the care of medical professionals who can prevent the harmful side effects of withdrawal.
Counseling
You will have an individualized treatment plan created to fit your specific needs. You will likely attend individual and group counseling sessions.
Holistic Care
It is essential to treat the mind and the body when recovering from substance abuse disorders. Holistic care includes spending time outdoors, exercising, and learning how to eat a nutritious diet.
After detoxing and working with your counselors, you will learn safe and effective methods of managing your anxiety that does not require habit-forming medications or other addictive substances. These new methods for handling anxiety will be the keys to your success in sobriety.
Get Help for Anxiety and Addiction Today
If you are ready to recover from addiction and anxiety, contact Clear Life Recovery today. Our experienced staff is ready to help guide you on your journey to a sober life.
Sources:
[1] https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/related-illnesses/substance-abuse
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2904966/
