Managing Addiction and Anxiety Together

It is not unusual for individuals struggling with substance use disorders to also be dealing with mental health issues and vice versa. These conditions often go hand-in-hand. The stress and unpredictability of anxiety can lead to using drugs or alcohol as a way of trying to cope or forget about one’s problems. On the other hand, substance use can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and make people feel worse, not better. It can become a vicious cycle that is tough to break.

However, dual diagnosis treatment at a facility like Crossroads can help. It is essential that addiction and mental health concerns are addressed together rather than separately. Treating one before the other can contribute to more complications. But dealing with these issues simultaneously allows clients to gain a better understanding of how they impact one another and their overall health and well-being. It can be easier to see the connection between their substance use and anxiety and recognize results as they work to address both conditions.

Substance use is only a temporary fix for anxiety. While it can initially make one feel calmer and more relaxed, as the body builds a tolerance, it requires more and more drugs or alcohol to achieve the same effect. In addition, some people actually become more anxious or paranoid while under the influence, thus countering the effects they had hoped to achieve. It is vital that clients learn more effective ways of dealing with anxiety that do not involve substance use.

No two people are exactly the same, so individualized treatment is key. Clients can work through challenges step by step to figure out what works best for their needs. Through therapy and counseling, they can identify underlying causes and determine what their personal triggers are. This can help with managing anxiety and addiction during recovery. Many of the strategies that are effective for addiction recovery are also helpful in dealing with anxiety. These include:


  • Psychotherapy
  • Meditation
  • Yoga
  • Mindfulness
  • Acupuncture
  • Massage
  • Exercise
  • Support groups

Reducing stress and understanding effective ways to deal with challenging situations as they arise can be beneficial. Regular massages, acupuncture sessions, and yoga are gentle ways to alleviate stress and anxiety, while more intensive exercises can be great for burning off excess energy while clearing the mind as well. Mindfulness and meditation help clients to become more focused on the present and connect with their thoughts, feelings, and the world around them.

Crossroads incorporates a wide range of approaches in supporting clients in overcoming addiction and managing anxiety. Individuals learn strategies that work for their needs and allow them to feel more in control of their recovery. When both conditions are addressed together, it can reduce risk of relapse and empower clients to remember who they wanted to be.

Many people experience some of the symptoms of anxiety even if they do not have a diagnosed anxiety disorder. Crossroads works with clients to determine their individual needs and the best approach to treatment and recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment is an integral part of comprehensive care and achieving lasting recovery. Clients can break the cycle of addiction and anxiety as they create a healthier, drug-free lifestyle.

[cta]Don’t let addiction and anxiety control your life. Break the cycle by contacting Crossroads today.[/cta]