There’s a clear link between anxiety and addiction. Anxiety is a common feeling that often leads people to turn to substances as a way to cope. This can lead to a vicious cycle in which people use substances to cope with their anxiety, which then leads to more anxiety and more substance use.
This cycle can be challenging to break, but it’s important to remember that help is available. If you need anxiety and addiction treatment, Woodland Recovery Center offers a range of evidence-based programs that are tailored to your specific needs. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care and helping you overcome the challenges of anxiety and addiction. Contact us today at 662.222.2989 for help finding suitable treatment for anxiety and addiction concerns.
The Connection Between Addiction and Anxiety
People who don’t get anxiety medicines often turn to drugs or alcohol to help relieve the symptoms of their anxiety. Many people turn to marijuana, heroin, and other sedatives for their calming effects. They often help depress the racing thoughts that anxiety causes. However, anxiety is only increased during substance use and addiction and can help contribute to a panic attack.
Panic attacks can occur when your anxiety gets so severe that your body triggers a fight or flight response. Essentially, your body suddenly feels like it is in danger, and it attempts to defend itself by increasing your adrenaline, focusing your mind on the problem, and giving you a manic burst of energy.
Most people have suffered a panic attack at some point in their lives. If you’ve ever suffered from the following symptoms out of the blue, there’s a good chance you have suffered from a panic attack:
- Pain in the chest
- Sudden terror
- Paranoia
- Nervousness
- Shaking and sweating
- Dizziness
- Heart problems
The frightening nature of panic attacks often makes people turn to substance use to avoid ever having another. Sadly, they don’t realize that drugs often contribute to anxiety and panic attacks. Beyond the anxious effect that many drugs cause lies the influence that addiction has on anxiety.
Understanding Symptoms of Anxiety and Addiction
Understanding the symptoms of both anxiety and addiction is critical to recognizing potential co-occurring conditions. Anxiety may present itself through symptoms such as excessive worry, restlessness, insomnia, irritability, palpitations, and difficulty in concentration. On the other hand, indicators of addiction might include:
- Compulsive seeking and usage of the substance despite harmful consequences
- Physical withdrawal symptoms when trying to reduce or stop usage
- Neglect of personal and professional responsibilities
- Increased tolerance, leading to the need for higher doses
- Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control substance use
It’s important to note that these symptoms can often intertwine and exacerbate each other, creating a complex situation that requires professional guidance and a comprehensive treatment approach.
Benefits of Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment
The benefits of co-occurring disorders treatment are many. The first and most important benefit is that it can help save your life. By addressing both anxiety and addiction simultaneously, a tailored treatment program can help you break the cycle of substance use and find healthier ways to cope with your anxiety.
Additionally, co-occurring disorders treatment can:
- Improve overall mental health and well-being
- Increase motivation and self-awareness
- Strengthen relationships with loved ones
- Provide coping skills for managing triggers and stressors
- Reduce the risk of relapse
If you or a loved one is struggling with both anxiety and addiction, reach out for professional help today. Remember, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Don’t wait any longer—take that first step toward healing and contact Woodland Recovery Center today.
Contact Woodland Recovery Center for Support with Healing Anxiety and Substance Abuse
As you can see, co-occurring disorders treatment is one of the most powerful ways to recover from the co-occurring problems of anxiety and drug addiction. And we are here to help. At Woodland Recovery Center, we can give you access to a wide range of resources to aid in your recovery. From access to caring counselors to contact information on rehab centers, we are here to help. Contact us today at 662.222.2989 to learn more about the connection between anxiety and addiction.
