Anxiety and Addiction Recovery

Feeling anxious is a normal human response to various reasons and circumstances. It can be described as feeling tension, having worried thoughts, or even physical responses like increased blood pressure. For some, anxiety and its symptoms can be more extreme and last longer than the average person, and may indicate an Anxiety Disorder. 

There are many cases where Anxiety Disorders either result in drug or alcohol addiction or are caused by substance abuse, requiring treatment that specializes in co-occurring addiction and mental health disorders for comprehensive recovery.

What is Anxiety Disorder?

The most common Anxiety Disorders include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent and excessive worry about concerns such as health, job, financial difficulties, etc.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense, persisting fear of being noticed, watched, or judged by others when in social settings and situations
• Panic Disorder: Repeated episodes of sudden and intense anxiety, fear, or terror that reach peak degree within a short span of time
• Phobias: Fear of specific objects or situations resulting in avoidance behaviors

What is the relationship between anxiety and addiction?

It is quite common that anxiety disorders co-occur with substance use disorders (SUDs) as many try to cope with their mental health symptoms by self-medicating with over-the-counter or illicit substances (drugs or alcohol), which can progress to substance abuse and addiction.

Is alcoholism linked to anxiety?

Alcohol is considered a depressant, meaning that its effect on brain chemistry can lead to negative feelings such as anxiety. Alcohol abuse can have a ripple effect on overall health, leading to sleep deprivation, hangovers, withdrawal symptoms, and other co-occurring disorders that can all contribute to worsening anxiety.

How to Overcome Addiction and Anxiety

There are a variety of treatment modalities that have helped those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety, including:

• Evidence-Based Therapies
• Family Therapy
• Holistic Therapies
• Dual Diagnosis Treatment
• 12-Step Program

How can I manage Anxiety?

There are various ways you can help manage anxiety symptoms, including:

• Deep breathing exercises
• Regular exercise/physical activity
• Mindfulness and meditation practices
• Reducing stimulant intake (like coffee or alcohol)
• A healthy, balanced diet
• Consistent, quality sleep routine
• Grounding techniques (3-3-3 rule)
• Professional support and therapies
• Holistic treatments (acupuncture)

What are the symptoms of Anxiety?

Anxiety can present itself in a mixture of emotional, mental, and behavioral or physical symptoms, including:

• Excessive worry about everyday concerns or situations
• Constantly on edge, unable to relax
• Easily tired, fatigued
• Lack of concentration
• Easily irritable
• Muscle tension, commonly in the neck, shoulders, or back
• Difficulty sleeping
• Panic attacks
• Avoidance behaviors relating to triggering situations or places

What causes Anxiety?

There are multiple factors that contribute to the development of Anxiety Disorders, including:

• Genetics: Family history of anxiety disorders
• Environment: High-stress situations or traumas, including loss, divorce, etc.
• Psychology: Negative thought patterns and dependency
• Medical Conditions: Issues with the heart, lungs, and thyroid can cause and exacerbate anxiety symptoms
• Substance Use: Alcohol, caffeine, and other substances may increase anxiety levels

Clinical and Holistic Treatments for Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders at Into Action Recovery

Whether you’re seeking understanding, searching for resources, or are simply curious about co-occurring mental health disorders and addiction, we’re here to help. 

Understanding anxiety disorders and their relationship to addiction is the first step toward seeking help and improving mental well-being for yourself or your loved one. 
If you or someone you know is struggling with any of these conditions, please look into our recovery services and connect with one of our team members today.