Anxiety Disorder Treatment in Rehab Centers

Anxiety disorders and substance use disorders commonly occur together, with each condition influencing and worsening the other. Many people use alcohol or drugs to temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms, while others develop anxiety as a consequence of substance use or withdrawal. Integrated treatment addressing both conditions provides the foundation for lasting recovery.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety disorders that frequently co-occur with addiction include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Persistent, excessive worry about various aspects of life
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Intense fear of social situations and being judged by others
• Panic Disorder: Recurring panic attacks with intense physical symptoms
• Specific Phobias: Intense fear of particular objects or situations
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors

The Self-Medication Cycle

People with anxiety often discover that alcohol or drugs temporarily reduce anxiety symptoms, leading to increased use. However, this relief is short-lived, and substances ultimately worsen anxiety through tolerance, withdrawal, and disrupted brain chemistry. Breaking this cycle requires addressing both the anxiety disorder and substance dependence simultaneously through integrated treatment.

Safe Anxiety Management in Recovery

While benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan) are commonly prescribed for anxiety, they carry high addiction risk and are typically avoided in recovery. Fortunately, effective non-addictive alternatives exist including SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone, and hydroxyzine. These medications treat anxiety without abuse potential. Psychological approaches like CBT, DBT, and mindfulness provide powerful anxiety relief.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Effective treatments include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: Challenges anxious thoughts and changes avoidance behaviors
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy: Teaches emotional regulation and distress tolerance skills
• Exposure Therapy: Gradually confronts feared situations to reduce anxiety response
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Develops psychological flexibility and value-based living
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR): Cultivates present-moment awareness to manage anxiety

Comprehensive Dual Diagnosis Care

Look for programs with psychiatric services for medication management, licensed therapists trained in evidence-based treatments for both conditions, individual and group therapy, skills training for managing anxiety and cravings, integrated treatment planning, and ongoing support for long-term recovery.

Additional resources:

• Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
• NIMH - Anxiety Disorders