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- co occurring disorders
- anxiety and addiction
Anxiety and Addiction
Jeffrey Juergens
Dr. Olushola, MSW
At our national rehabilitation centers, we specialize in compassionate and effective treatment for individuals dealing with anxiety and addiction. The comprehensive care offered at Legacy Healing Center addresses both the symptoms of anxiety disorders and the challenges of addiction, recognizing the complex relationship between these conditions.
Anxiety disorders often co-occur with addiction, which is characterized by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequences. This intersection can create a cycle of distress and dependency, making recovery a multifaceted journey.
Understanding Addiction and Anxiety Disorder
Anxiety disorders encompass a range of conditions including excessive worry, fear, and apprehension. Common types of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms can manifest as restlessness, irritability, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances. These disorders can significantly impact an individual’s ability to function in daily life, affecting work, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Addiction, on the other hand, refers to a chronic, relapsing disorder that involves compulsive drug seeking, use, and dependence, despite harmful consequences. This can involve substances such as alcohol, opioids, or stimulants as well as behaviors like gambling or compulsive eating. Addiction is often accompanied by physical and psychological dependence, making it challenging to quit without professional help.
Both anxiety and addiction can exacerbate each other, forming a cycle where anxiety may lead to substance use as a coping mechanism while substance use may worsen anxiety symptoms.
The Connection Between Anxiety Disorder and Substance Abuse
Research indicates a strong correlation between anxiety disorders and addiction. Individuals with anxiety disorders are more likely to develop substance use disorders, and vice versa. In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that people with anxiety disorders are twice as likely to suffer from a substance use disorder compared to those without anxiety disorders. This co-occurrence can be attributed to shared risk factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental triggers, and similar neurobiological mechanisms involving neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
Anxiety symptoms may drive individuals to use substances as a way to self-medicate and alleviate their distress. Conversely, substance use can increase anxiety symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle of escalating substance use and worsening anxiety. This interplay underscores the importance of integrated treatment approaches that address both disorders simultaneously, helping individuals achieve sustainable recovery and improved mental health.
Personalized Substance Abuse and Anxiety Treatments
Our addiction and behavioral health treatment facilities are dedicated to providing personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual struggling with anxiety and addiction. Our comprehensive levels of care include a range of treatment options designed to support patients at every stage of their journey during treatment of co-occurring disorders:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): Our PHP offers intensive, structured treatment during the day while allowing patients to return home or to a supportive living environment in the evenings. This program is ideal for individuals who require a high level of care but do not need 24-hour supervision.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): Our IOP provides a step-down level of care, offering flexible scheduling for those who do not require round-the-clock supervision but still need comprehensive support and therapy. It allows patients to continue their daily routines while receiving intensive treatment.
- Outpatient Program: Our outpatient program offers ongoing support and therapy on a less intensive basis, allowing patients to live at home and attend therapy sessions and support groups according to their individualized treatment plan. This level of care is ideal for individuals who have completed a more intensive program or who require support as they reintegrate into daily life.
- Medically Monitored Detox: For patients requiring detoxification from substances, we offer medically monitored detox services to ensure safety and comfort during the withdrawal process. Our medical team provides 24/7 monitoring and support to manage symptoms and address any medical complications that may arise.
- Aftercare Therapy: Our commitment to long-term recovery includes aftercare therapy, which provides ongoing support to help patients maintain their sobriety and manage anxiety. This may include individual therapy sessions, group therapy, relapse prevention education, and continued access to our comprehensive support network.
Each treatment plan at our rehab centers is tailored to meet the specific needs and goals of the individual, addressing both anxiety and substance abuse or alcoholism in an integrated manner. Our multidisciplinary team of medical professionals, therapists, and counselors work collaboratively to ensure that each patient receives the highest quality of care and support throughout their journey to recovery.
Get Thorough Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment
If you’re ready to overcome anxiety and addiction, Legacy Healing Center is here to help. We offer a range of services at our facilities designed to support your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn more about these services and the behavioral health treatments available at Legacy. Interested in learning more about addiction, behavioral health, and their treatment? Explore our expertly written addiction articles for invaluable insights about anxiety and alcoholism, substance abuse, mental health issues, and much more.
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About the Author
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