Help with Anxiety with Addiction. Anxiety with addiction is common place in our rehab centres, as is with all rehab centres. Astonishingly it is now 1 in 6 people in the UK suffer from anxiety according to the MHFA. It is now the most common mental health illness in the world, and sadly anxiety goes hand in hand with addiction. So the chances of getting addicted to drugs or alcohol is doubled if you suffer from anxiety. The funny thing is not many people who have anxiety get it treated. And also sad is people who do look to drugs and alcohol to help their anxiety, get it really wrong, as both enhance anxiety. The next thing is people then increase their intake of drugs and alcohol to solve their anxiety, and it makes it even worse.
What is the cause of Anxiety
Causes can come from anywhere, and are hard to diagnose. Most anxiety comes from several causes. Here are just a few. Long term stress from work, marriage, children etc. It could also stem from abuse as a child, or sexual abuse and violence. Drug misuse is another common cause. Relationship issues. Not just their partner, but work and social relationships. It could be hereditary or caused through disorders such as an eating disorder.
The warning signs – Help with Anxiety with Addiction
The warning signs are different for most people. Here are a few as an idea. If you are feeling worried or scared. You get in a panic for no real reason. If you are having trouble focusing or you are easy distracted. Failing relationships in all walks of life. These feelings can be physical as well as psychological.
Anxiety – What is it
Anxiety is quite normal, but if you suffer from extreme anxiety it is very different. It sadly is a mental illness which attaches itself to the reactions of bad situations. These also includes dangerous situations and stress. This makes its really hard for people who suffer this to lead a normal life. People who suffer extreme anxiety tend to stay out of social situations as well as cannot sleep, and their concentration is worsened.
5 types of anxiety
The common ones are post traumatic stress disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. There is also generalised anxiety disorder, (mainly with substance abuse and depression, which is also mainly caused by the addiction) social anxiety disorder and panic disorders.
Is it in the mind – Anxiety with addiction
NO. You can easily get physical side effect as well. Here are jus a few. Sweating, fatigue, chest tightening. Palpitations from the heart. Sickness, tense muscles, hyperventilating, shaking, dizziness, and tingling.
Managing anxiety alongside addiction can be a complex challenge, but there are strategies and approaches that can help.
Here are some suggestions to assist with anxiety in the context of addiction:
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Seek professional help: Consult with a healthcare professional, such as a therapist, psychiatrist, or addiction specialist, who can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options. They can help address both the anxiety and addiction components and develop a personalised plan for recovery.
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Dual diagnosis treatment: If you have been diagnosed with both anxiety and addiction, it’s crucial to seek dual diagnosis treatment. This type of treatment integrates approaches for both conditions simultaneously, addressing the underlying causes and providing tailored strategies for recovery.
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Medication: In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage anxiety symptoms. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other medications may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. It’s important to work closely with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage for your situation.
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Therapy and counselling: Engage in therapy, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), which can help identify and challenge negative thought patterns, manage anxiety symptoms, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Therapy can also address the underlying causes of addiction and provide tools for relapse prevention.
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Stress management techniques: Learn and practice stress management techniques to help reduce anxiety levels. These may include deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or engaging in hobbies or activities that promote relaxation and well-being.
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Support groups: Consider joining support groups or attending meetings specifically tailored for individuals with co-occurring anxiety and addiction. Groups like Dual Recovery Anonymous (DRA) or Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) can provide a supportive environment where you can share experiences, gain insights, and learn from others facing similar challenges.
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Healthy lifestyle habits: Adopt healthy lifestyle habits that promote overall well-being and can help manage anxiety. This includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and minimising the use of caffeine and other stimulants, as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.
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Self-care practices: Make self-care a priority. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading, spending time in nature, practicing hobbies, or engaging in creative outlets. Take breaks when needed and practice self-compassion.
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Build a support network: Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, or peers who understand and respect your journey. Share your challenges and accomplishments with them, and seek their support when needed.
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Stay committed to recovery: Managing anxiety alongside addiction requires dedication and perseverance. Stay committed to your recovery goals, attend therapy or counselling sessions regularly, and actively participate in your treatment plan. Be patient with yourself and recognise that healing takes time.
Remember, everyone’s journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals to find the strategies and treatments that are most effective for your situation. With the right support and a comprehensive approach, it is possible to manage anxiety and find lasting recovery from addiction.
How to treat anxiety
Firstly stop drinking and talking drugs. This will have a major impact on you getting well.
This is the best way to get through anxiety. You will start taking control of your own life. You will become healthier and physically stronger. Self medicating on drugs or alcohol is not the answer.
Contact us – Help with Anxiety with Addiction
We are here 24/7 if you would like some free help and advice about addiction, or anything else you have read on this website. Call: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
