Many people with an anxiety disorder turn to drugs and alcohol as a way to self-medicate. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 20% of people with an anxiety disorder are also dealing with a substance use disorder.[1] Using substances as a coping mechanism can be dangerous because it can quickly turn into an addiction. As we explore the link between anxiety and addiction, we’ll also tell you how Ocean Hills Recovery can help treat both of these issues simultaneously.
Why do People Turn to Substances to Deal with Anxiety?
For many people, dealing with an anxiety disorder can cause symptoms that are very difficult to handle. Restlessness, weakness, sweaty hands, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and problems staying or falling asleep can all lead someone to search for quick relief. Unfortunately, this is often found in drugs and alcohol.
While some people may start using drugs and alcohol as a quick fix to deal with their anxiety, the longer they use these substances, the lesser effect it has, making them want to use more to get the desired effect. This becomes a vicious cycle because when the effect of the drug wears off, anxiety symptoms will resurface, causing people to look for more substances.
People with severe anxiety are more likely to use substances to get temporary relief from their symptoms. But anxiety can also get worse as someone becomes more dependent on a substance, and it begins to drain from their systems. By using drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism, the issues of anxiety are never addressed. They spark new problems that can impact a person’s health and overall well-being.
Dangers of Using Substances to Deal with Anxiety
Researchers have found a clear link between anxiety and addiction. Consider these study findings.[2]
- 10 to 40 percent of people with alcohol addiction are also affected by a panic-related anxiety disorder
- 10 to 20 percent of people with an anxiety disorder abuse alcohol or other drugs
The study also revealed that most participants with anxiety and alcohol use disorder said that their anxiety problems came before their alcohol abuse.
When people turn to substances to deal with anxiety, they may be opening the door to a variety of health problems.[3] These include:
- Fast heart rate
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Pain or tightness in the chest
- Muscle tension
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Stomach pains
As the amount of substances increases, these symptoms can become worse.
Taking stimulant drugs, such as amphetamines, can trigger anxiety and can lead to other mental health issues, such as psychosis and schizophrenia.[4] Mixing these drugs with alcohol can lead to even more serious health problems and sometimes even death.
Treating Anxiety and Addiction Simultaneously
When someone is dealing with mental health issues, such as anxiety and a substance use problem, it is referred to as a dual diagnosis. Due to the dangers surrounding anxiety and addiction, it is important to treat both conditions simultaneously. There are several ways of doing this.
Detox
Some people need to undergo a detox program to rid their bodies of the harmful substances they have accumulated. This is crucial before any treatment programs can begin.
Treatment Programs
Treatment programs can help to battle anxiety and addiction. A customized plan can ensure you get treatment for both conditions. This dual diagnosis treatment is crucial because without addressing both issues at once, you will never fully heal and learn how to live a sober life.
Therapy and Counseling
Different forms of therapy are used to treat those battling an addiction and anxiety. Group, individual, and family therapy sessions can all be beneficial. Many times, people use a combination of these to help them overcome both issues.
Prescription Medication
Some people are prescribed medication to help them deal with their anxiety symptoms. This can help them cope in a positive way without using substances.
Seek Help for Addiction at Ocean Hills Recovery
Ocean Hills Recovery provides a variety of personalized programs for those dealing with addiction as a result of anxiety. Our individualized programs include dual diagnosis treatment, which allows patients to receive help for their anxiety disorders while receiving substance abuse treatment. We give patients the tools they need to deal with both issues so that they can live sober and productive lives. We also provide detox services and residential treatment to help people deal with the many complex issues surrounding anxiety and addiction.
Our patients learn the tools they need to survive in the relaxing environment of our Orange County, CA, facility. Contact Ocean Hills Recovery today to learn how our substance use treatment programs can help you get on a sober path.
Sources:
[1] https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/co-occurring-disorders/substance-abuse
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2256896/
[3] https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/anxiety-disorders/substance-induced-anxiety-disorder
[4] https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/drugs-and-mental-health
About the author:
As CEO of Ocean Hills Recovery, Robert Leigh brings forth an immense passion for helping those suffering create change in their lives. With years of experience in the addiction treatment industry, Robert’s active role at Ocean Hills helps integrate his philosophy that addiction and recovery is a personalized journey, and addiction treatment should echo the same mission. Robert’s innovation in the addiction treatment industry has involved integrating exceptional and effective treatment to those that walk into the doors of Ocean Hills, creating a truly unique and individualized treatment program – ensuring that individuals have the foundation and tools they need to live successful lives long after treatment has been completed.
