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The Link Between Anxiety And Addiction

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MANY OF THOSE WHO SUFFER FROM SUBSTANCE ABUSE ISSUES ALSO STRUGGLE WITH ANXIETY. IN FACT, MANY PATIENTS SEEKING TREATMENT FOR ADDICTION ALSO HAVE AN UNDERLYING MENTAL HEALTH DISORDER. ANXIETY IS ONE OF THE MOST COMMON MENTAL HEALTH ISSUES EXPERIENCED BY ADDICTS AND THOSE IN RECOVERY. ALL TOO OFTEN, ANXIETY AND ADDICTION NEED TO CONSIDERED TOGETHER DURING TREATMENT. WHEN SEEKING PROFESSIONAL HELP, LOOK FOR AN ANXIETY TREATMENT CENTER THAT CAN TREAT ALL OF YOUR NEEDS.

Many addicts find relief for anxiety by using substances and patients in recovery oftentimes cope with anxiety. While anxiety and addiction may appear to be unrelated, in truth both are commonly addressed and treated during substance abuse treatment. Anxiety and addiction are also related because those who suffer from severe anxiety are more likely to abuse drugs and alcohol.

HOW ANXIETY AND ADDICTION ARE RELATED

While anxiety and addiction have different symptoms, combined they can lead to a perfect storm. Those who suffer from anxiety typically experience symptoms like panic attacks, distress in social situations and overwhelming feelings of fear.

Another common symptom is being uncomfortable in social situations. Having difficulty coping with social situations can lead to you being more likely to drink or use drugs in order to control anxiety symptoms. While alcohol and drugs can help alleviate anxiety in the short term, substance use exacerbates anxiety over the long run.

A large number of people struggling with addiction have co-occurring disorders, many times involving symptoms of anxiety. 20% of people with substance abuse disorders have anxiety or mood-related disorder.

After beginning the process of detoxing from substances like alcohol, those with anxiety can experience a significant increase in symptoms. Left unaddressed, these symptoms can undermine the recovery process.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TREATING ANXIETY

Substance abuse treatment is most effective if it treats anxiety and addiction. Only treating one aspect can decrease the likelihood of recovery. Finding a comprehensive addiction therapy program can be the key to creating long-term recovery.

Treating underlying issues is an important aspect of successful substance abuse treatment because the underlying issues likely had a role in leading to substance use. Many people suffering from addiction begin using to find relief from other symptoms, such as anxiety.

When considering addiction treatment, make sure to look for a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center so you can take charge of your mental health along with your substance abuse.

Some of the most common mental health disorders that cause anxiety include:

  • Social anxiety disorder
  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • PTSD
  • Mood disorders, like bipolar disorder
  • Panic disorder, which can cause intense panic attacks

FINDING THE BEST TREATMENT

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety and addiction, finding a treatment center that has experience treating both disorders is paramount. Always keep in mind that a quality treatment center will offer programs and activities tailored to your needs.

If you would like to find the best substance abuse treatment program for you, contact Pearl of Sea Retreat today at 866-962-1907 to learn more about how our programs can help you recover from anxiety and addiction.

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