Anxiety & Addiction Treatment Centers Near You
Anxiety disorders and substance use disorders often occur together, each exacerbating the other. Discover treatment centers specializing in co-occurring disorder care with integrated mental health and addiction treatment.
Found 9,213 rehab centers specializing in anxiety disorders across the United States.
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Find Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for Anxiety and Addiction
Browse dual diagnosis treatment centers for anxiety and addiction below. Filter by therapy type, insurance, and level of care.
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Lifeline Connections, located in Vancouver, WA, provides a wide range of treatment options for substance use disorders along with dedicated support for individuals facing dual mental health challenges. This center features programs such as intensive outpatient services, regular outpatient care, and options for methadone/buprenorphine or naltrexone treatment. Implementing proven methods like cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, Lifeline Connections serves both adults and youth, offering programs specifically designed for those who have underwent trauma or present with co-occurring issues. Committed to delivering high-caliber care, Lifeline Connections invites male and female clients seeking reliable rehabilitation support in a nurturing atmosphere.
Lifeline Professional Counseling Servs, located in Scottsdale, AZ, specializes in extensive treatment for substance use and provides targeted support for adults facing co-occurring substance use disorders alongside significant mental health issues, as well as children with emotional challenges. The center delivers various programs, including intensive outpatient treatment, outpatient day services, and partial hospitalization, utilizing methods such as 12-step facilitation, anger management, and brief intervention strategies. Lifeline offers customized programs for active military personnel, teenagers, and adult men, serving a diverse clientele that includes adults and seniors of all genders. The center's commitment to high-quality care and personalized treatment plans positions it as a leading option for individuals seeking effective rehabilitation solutions.
Nestled in Chandler, AZ, Lifeline Professional Counseling Servs is dedicated to providing expert substance abuse treatment for adults experiencing severe mental health challenges and for children facing emotional difficulties. Their wide-ranging programs feature intensive outpatient care, daytime outpatient therapy, and partial hospitalization. Emphasizing 12-step support, anger management, and brief intervention strategies, this center serves active military personnel, teenagers, and adult males. Catering to adults and seniors of all genders, Lifeline is committed to delivering personalized care that meets the unique needs of individuals, establishing itself as an essential option for effective rehabilitation services in the Chandler vicinity.
Lifeline Connections, located in Vancouver, WA, provides an array of targeted services for those in need of treatment for substance abuse and mental health challenges. The center features hospital-based detoxification services, intensive outpatient programs, and employs proven strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy and the Matrix Model. Offering customized programs designed for teenagers, adult males, and females, Lifeline Connections serves a wide spectrum of ages and genders. Its emphasis on short-term interventions and high-quality care positions it as an essential support system for individuals beginning their recovery process.
LifeSkills Inc, located in Bowling Green, KY, provides exceptional residential treatment for substance use issues. The center emphasizes 12-step programs, anger management strategies, and brief intervention methods. Designed for adult men, the facility also supports individuals affected by intimate partner violence, domestic violence, and sexual abuse. LifeSkills Inc focuses on offering personalized care for adults, seniors, and young adults, ensuring that male clients receive the attention they need. The center's short-term and 24-hour residential treatment options deliver thorough assistance for those pursuing recovery. With a dedication to high-quality care, LifeSkills Inc is recognized as a reliable resource for individuals facing substance use difficulties.
LifeTime Recovery in Mullica Hill, New Jersey offers outpatient day treatment, intensive outpatient, and regular outpatient care with buprenorphine and naltrexone for opioid and alcohol use disorders. Programs serve young adults, seniors, and criminal justice clients. TRICARE, private insurance, and state-financed plans accepted.
Buprenorphine-based outpatient and intensive outpatient substance use treatment is available in Lumberton, North Carolina. The program serves adolescents, criminal justice clients, people with co-occurring disorders, and survivors of domestic violence. Medicare, Medicaid, a sliding fee scale, and payment assistance are accepted.
At Lifeline Connections in Bellingham, WA, a full spectrum of addiction recovery support is available for all ages. This facility excels in providing services for medically supervised withdrawal, comprehensive addiction counseling, and integrated care for those managing both substance use and mental health challenges. Clients can access structured partial hospitalization programs, less intensive outpatient withdrawal management, and proven therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Specialized assistance is also offered for individuals navigating the legal system. Dedicated to delivering exceptional, personalized care, Lifeline Connections welcomes men and women embarking on their journey to overcome addiction and co-occurring disorders.
LifeWorks NW, located in Portland, OR, provides a variety of evidence-based solutions for addressing substance use as well as related mental health challenges in both adults and children. The center features intensive outpatient, outpatient, and standard outpatient services, employing methodologies like cognitive behavioral therapy, the Matrix Model, and motivational interviewing. There are specific programs designed for teenagers, adult males, and adult females. Catering to adults and seniors of any gender, LifeWorks NW emphasizes personalized treatment plans and dedicated support to meet the distinct requirements of each client.
LifeWorks NW in Beaverton, OR, provides a comprehensive suite of research-backed therapies designed for addiction and co-occurring psychological conditions. This center delivers intensive outpatient, standard outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs for both younger and adult individuals. Emphasizing cognitive behavioral therapy, the Matrix Model, and motivational interviewing, the center customizes its interventions for every person. Specialized offerings are accessible for teens, adult males, and adult females. LifeWorks NW welcomes all genders, encompassing adults and older adults. The center's dedication to high-quality support and individualized care positions it as a leading option for those pursuing impactful recovery services.
LifeSkills Inc, located in Bowling Green, KY, provides outpatient care for individuals dealing with substance use issues alongside significant mental health challenges. The center employs techniques such as cognitive behavioral therapy, Matrix Model, and motivational interviewing to create customized treatment plans. Catering to various demographics, including adolescents and adult men and women, LifeSkills Inc addresses a wide range of client needs. The facility prioritizes comprehensive assistance for people of all genders, ensuring each patient receives high-quality, personalized care. Those looking for effective rehabilitation, especially for co-occurring disorders, will find evidence-based methods and specialized programs designed to support enduring recovery at this center.
LifeSkills Inc, located in Tompkinsville, KY, provides outpatient therapy for adults dealing with substance use alongside significant mental health challenges. Their extensive offerings include 12-step support, cognitive behavioral therapy, and the Matrix Model techniques. This center is particularly focused on assisting active duty service members, teenagers, and adult males. Catering to adults and seniors of every gender, LifeSkills Inc delivers personalized care designed to address unique requirements. Renowned for their high-quality and effective treatment strategies, this facility stands out as a preferred option for individuals searching for specialized rehabilitation support in a nurturing setting.
LifeSkills Inc, situated in Scottsville, KY, delivers exceptional residential care for individuals battling substance use disorders. Their expertise encompasses 12-step integration, strategies for managing anger, and cognitive behavioral techniques. This establishment is particularly dedicated to assisting adult women who have endured intimate partner violence, domestic abuse, or sexual trauma. Serving adults of all ages, LifeSkills Inc centers its services on female clients, cultivating a secure and nurturing atmosphere for the recovery journey. Through short-term and round-the-clock residential options, the center emphasizes personalized treatment plans and proven methods to foster enduring wellness and abstinence.
LifeSkills Inc., located in Edmonton, KY, provides outpatient care for adults and youth dealing with substance abuse and co-occurring mental health conditions. The center employs proven therapeutic methods such as 12-step support, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Matrix Model. They offer targeted programs for active military personnel, teenagers, and adult men, ensuring a fit for various groups. Serving seniors and adults of any gender, LifeSkills Inc. delivers personalized and thorough support. Their dedication to effective treatment and a range of specialized services positions LifeSkills Inc. as a crucial support system for those pursuing recovery from addiction and co-occurring disorders.
LifeSkills Inc, located in Bowling Green, KY, provides a full spectrum of outpatient care for adults and young adults navigating substance abuse and co-occurring mental health challenges. Their expertise extends to detoxification, support for the 12-step recovery model, anger resolution, and concise intervention strategies. This establishment delivers customized support for adult men, adult women, and individuals with a history of trauma. Emphasizing gender-informed treatment, LifeSkills Inc guarantees high-quality services, including outpatient options with methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. Those in search of impactful and encouraging recovery pathways can discover individualized programs at this center.
LifeWorks NW, located in Portland, OR, provides outpatient treatment for substance use disorders along with specialized support for those facing significant mental health challenges or emotional issues. Employing research-backed methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy, the Matrix Model, and motivational interviewing, this center customizes its care for both adults and young adults. LifeWorks NW also offers specific programs aimed at adult women, including support for those who have experienced intimate partner violence, domestic violence, and sexual abuse, fostering a nurturing and secure atmosphere. Committed to serving clients of all genders, the center focuses on delivering exceptional and thorough rehabilitation services to assist individuals in attaining long-term recovery.
Lifebridge Community Services located in Fairfield, CT, provides outpatient treatment for substance use tailored for both adults and children struggling with significant mental health conditions. The center employs techniques such as anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing. It features targeted programs designed for adolescents, men, and women, accommodating adults and seniors across all demographics. Lifebridge Community Services prioritizes high-quality care by creating customized treatment plans. Whether addressing substance use or mental health issues, the facility's extensive services are designed to lead individuals onto the path of enduring recovery and enhanced well-being.
Lifeline Care Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, provides day treatment, intensive outpatient, and regular outpatient substance use care, with naltrexone used in treatment. Programming covers clients with co-occurring mental health disorders. Accepted payments include Medicaid, Medicare, TRICARE, tribal funds, SAMHSA block grants, and state-financed plans.
LifeSkills Inc, located in Brownsville, KY, specializes in outpatient treatment options for those dealing with substance use issues, as well as individuals facing concurrent substance use and severe mental health challenges. The center offers customized programs for both adults and children, employing proven methodologies such as 12-step support, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and the Matrix Model. With particular attention to adolescents, as well as adult men and women, LifeSkills Inc is committed to providing thorough care that addresses the needs of various groups. The facility serves all genders, including adults and seniors, with a strong emphasis on delivering high-quality treatment aimed at fostering sustainable recovery. If you are in search of personalized rehabilitation services, this center is devoted to helping you achieve a healthier and drug-free lifestyle.
LifeSkills Inc, located in Glasgow, KY, offers a full spectrum of services designed to address substance use challenges for adults and seniors. The center has a particular expertise in treating individuals who are experiencing both substance use disorders and serious mental health conditions, alongside addressing emotional difficulties in young people. Their treatment options include intensive outpatient, outpatient, and standard outpatient programs. By employing therapeutic techniques like anger management, brief intervention, and cognitive behavioral therapy, LifeSkills Inc supports adult men, adult women, and those with dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use issues. Committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care, LifeSkills Inc is devoted to guiding individuals toward lasting recovery.
Anxiety Disorders and Substance Use: Key Facts
Classification
Anxiety Disorders + Substance Use Disorder (Dual Diagnosis)
Co-occurrence
~20% of people with anxiety disorders also have SUD
Prevalence
40 million adults with anxiety disorders in the US (ADAA)
Common types
GAD, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Phobias, OCD
Self-medication risk
Alcohol and benzodiazepines most commonly used
Benzo danger
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening
Safe medications
SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone, hydroxyzine (non-addictive)
Key therapies
CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, mindfulness
Anxiety and Addiction: Why They Co-Occur
Self-medication with alcohol and benzodiazepines
Anxiety disorders cause persistent, overwhelming fear and worry that can make daily life feel unmanageable. Many people discover that alcohol or sedatives like Xanax provide fast, temporary relief from anxious thoughts and physical symptoms. This relief is real — but short-lived. Over time, the brain adapts and requires more of the substance to achieve the same calming effect, leading to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Substance-induced anxiety
The relationship also works in reverse. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine directly trigger anxiety by flooding the brain with stress hormones. Chronic alcohol use disrupts GABA and glutamate systems, leaving the brain in a state of hyperexcitability. Even cannabis, often perceived as calming, can produce severe anxiety and panic attacks in many users — especially with today's high-THC products.
Withdrawal anxiety
When someone who has been using alcohol or benzodiazepines to manage anxiety tries to stop, rebound anxiety occurs — often worse than the original symptoms. This happens because the brain has downregulated its own calming mechanisms in response to the substance. The intense anxiety during withdrawal drives many people back to using, creating a cycle that is extremely difficult to break without professional help.
The vicious cycle
Anxiety leads to substance use for relief. Substance use worsens anxiety over time. Worsening anxiety drives more substance use. Each cycle deepens both the anxiety disorder and the addiction, making each condition harder to treat in isolation. This is why dual diagnosis treatment — addressing both conditions simultaneously — is the most effective approach for lasting recovery.
Types of Anxiety Disorders Treated in Rehab
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
GAD involves persistent, excessive worry about everyday matters — health, finances, work, relationships — that is difficult to control and lasts six months or more. People with GAD often turn to alcohol to quiet the constant stream of worry. Over time, alcohol becomes the only way they know how to relax, and quitting means facing the full force of unmanaged anxiety.
Social Anxiety Disorder
Social anxiety causes intense fear of judgment, embarrassment, or rejection in social situations. Alcohol is the most common substance used to cope — many people with social anxiety cannot imagine attending a party, giving a presentation, or even making a phone call without drinking first. This pattern of "liquid courage" can quickly escalate into alcohol dependence.
Panic Disorder
Panic disorder causes sudden, intense episodes of overwhelming fear accompanied by physical symptoms — racing heart, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness. These attacks feel like medical emergencies. Benzodiazepines like Xanax provide rapid relief from panic attacks, making them feel like a lifeline. But benzodiazepine dependence develops quickly, and withdrawal can actually trigger more panic attacks.
Specific Phobias
Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific situations or objects — flying, heights, medical procedures, enclosed spaces. People may use alcohol or sedatives to get through unavoidable situations that trigger their phobia. While less commonly associated with full addiction, phobia-driven substance use can develop into a pattern of avoidance that prevents people from ever addressing the underlying fear.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors performed to reduce anxiety (compulsions). The relentless nature of OCD can drive people toward alcohol, marijuana, or other substances to temporarily quiet obsessive thoughts. Studies show that approximately 25% of people with OCD also meet criteria for a substance use disorder.
The Benzodiazepine Trap
How benzodiazepine dependence starts
Benzodiazepines — Xanax (alprazolam), Valium (diazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Klonopin (clonazepam) — are among the most commonly prescribed medications for anxiety. They work fast and effectively, providing near-instant relief from acute anxiety and panic. This rapid effectiveness is exactly what makes them so dangerous: the brain quickly associates the drug with relief, and tolerance develops within weeks of daily use.
Rapid tolerance and dose escalation
Within 2–4 weeks of regular use, most people need higher doses of benzodiazepines to achieve the same anxiety relief. Some increase their prescribed dose without telling their doctor. Others seek prescriptions from multiple providers or buy pills on the street. Tolerance develops even when the medication is taken exactly as prescribed, which is why most clinical guidelines now recommend benzodiazepines only for short-term use (2–4 weeks).
Dangerous withdrawal
Benzodiazepine withdrawal is one of the few substance withdrawals that can be fatal. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines after prolonged use can cause seizures, psychosis, delirium, and death. Even with medical supervision, withdrawal must be managed through a slow, carefully monitored taper that can take weeks or months. This is why you should never stop taking benzodiazepines suddenly without medical guidance. Learn more about prescription drug abuse treatment.
Why medical taper is essential
A medical taper involves gradually reducing the benzodiazepine dose over weeks or months under professional supervision. The rate of reduction is adjusted based on how the patient responds. Longer-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam are sometimes substituted for shorter-acting ones like alprazolam to create a smoother taper. Throughout the process, non-addictive anxiety medications and therapy are introduced to provide alternative relief.
Safe Anxiety Medications During Recovery
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro), and paroxetine (Paxil) are first-line medications for anxiety disorders. They have no abuse potential, do not produce euphoria, and are safe for people in recovery. SSRIs take 2–6 weeks to reach full effectiveness, which requires patience — but they provide sustained anxiety relief without the risks of benzodiazepines.
SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors)
SNRIs like venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are effective for GAD, social anxiety, and panic disorder. They work on both serotonin and norepinephrine systems and are non-addictive. SNRIs are particularly useful for people who also experience chronic pain alongside anxiety, as they address both conditions.
Buspirone
Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication specifically designed to treat GAD without addiction risk. Unlike benzodiazepines, buspirone does not cause sedation, cognitive impairment, or physical dependence. It takes 1–2 weeks to become effective and works best with consistent daily use. Buspirone is often a good choice for patients transitioning off benzodiazepines.
Hydroxyzine
Hydroxyzine (Vistaril) is an antihistamine with anti-anxiety properties. It provides fast-acting relief for acute anxiety without addiction risk, making it useful as a "rescue" medication during recovery when patients would otherwise reach for a benzodiazepine. It can cause drowsiness, which also makes it helpful for anxiety-related insomnia.
Addressing patient concerns
Many patients worry that non-benzodiazepine medications will not be strong enough. This concern is understandable — benzos work faster and feel more powerful. However, SSRIs and SNRIs provide more consistent, sustained anxiety relief without the rebound anxiety and cognitive fog that benzodiazepines cause with long-term use. Working closely with a psychiatrist experienced in addiction medicine ensures the right medication and dose are found for each individual.
Therapy Approaches for Anxiety and Addiction
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the gold standard treatment for anxiety disorders and is equally effective for addiction. CBT teaches patients to identify the catastrophic thought patterns that fuel anxiety ("What if something terrible happens?"), challenge their accuracy, and replace them with realistic, balanced thinking. For addiction, CBT identifies triggers and builds concrete coping strategies that do not involve substances.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT was originally developed for emotional dysregulation and is particularly effective for anxiety combined with addiction. DBT teaches four core skills: mindfulness (staying present instead of worrying), distress tolerance (surviving crises without substances), emotion regulation (managing intense feelings), and interpersonal effectiveness (communicating needs assertively).
Exposure therapy
Exposure therapy is the most effective treatment for specific phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder. Under professional guidance, patients gradually face feared situations in a controlled, safe manner. Over time, the brain learns that the feared outcome does not occur, and anxiety diminishes naturally. For people in recovery, exposure therapy provides a permanent alternative to using substances to avoid feared situations.
Mindfulness-based approaches
Mindfulness meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) train patients to observe anxious thoughts without reacting to them. Rather than trying to eliminate anxiety, mindfulness changes the relationship with it — allowing worry to pass through without triggering panic or substance use. Research shows mindfulness reduces both anxiety symptoms and relapse rates in recovery.
What to Expect in Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Comprehensive assessment
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation of both the anxiety disorder and the substance use disorder. Clinicians determine which anxiety disorder is present, how severe it is, what substances are involved, and whether the anxiety is primary (existed before substance use) or substance-induced. This assessment guides every aspect of the treatment plan.
Medication stabilization
If benzodiazepines are involved, a medically supervised taper begins. At the same time, non-addictive anxiety medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone) are introduced. Because these medications take weeks to become fully effective, this overlap period requires close medical monitoring and strong therapeutic support.
Therapy phases
Early therapy focuses on stabilization, psychoeducation, and building basic coping skills. As patients stabilize, therapy deepens into CBT, DBT, or exposure work targeting the specific anxiety disorder. Individual therapy addresses personal history and trauma, while group therapy provides peer support from others managing the same dual challenge.
Gradual anxiety exposure
Once patients are stable and have basic coping tools, therapists gradually introduce exposure to anxiety-provoking situations. This might mean social interactions for social anxiety, uncertainty tolerance exercises for GAD, or interoceptive exposure for panic disorder. Each step builds confidence that anxiety can be tolerated without substances.
Aftercare with ongoing anxiety management
Discharge planning includes ongoing psychiatric care, continued therapy, medication management, and relapse prevention strategies specific to anxiety triggers. Support groups, alumni programs, and step-down care (from residential to outpatient, or from IOP to standard outpatient) ensure the transition back to daily life is gradual and supported.
Important: Anxiety may temporarily worsen during early recovery as brain chemistry rebalances. This is normal and manageable with professional support. The increase in anxiety does not mean treatment is failing — it means the brain is healing and learning to regulate itself without substances.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anxiety and Addiction
How are anxiety and addiction connected?
Anxiety disorders and substance use disorders frequently co-occur. Some people develop substance dependence after self-medicating anxiety symptoms with alcohol or drugs. Others develop anxiety as a consequence of substance use or during withdrawal. Both conditions interact, with each worsening the other, which is why integrated dual diagnosis treatment addressing both simultaneously is most effective.
Can I take anxiety medication during addiction treatment?
Yes, but medication must be carefully managed. Benzodiazepines like Xanax and Ativan are avoided due to their high addiction potential. Non-addictive alternatives exist and are highly effective: SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone, and hydroxyzine all treat anxiety without abuse risk. Dual diagnosis programs work with psychiatrists experienced in addiction medicine to find safe, effective anxiety management.
What types of anxiety disorders can be treated alongside addiction?
Dual diagnosis programs treat all anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, specific phobias, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) alongside substance use disorders. Treatment is individualized based on the specific anxiety diagnosis, the substance involved, and personal circumstances. Each anxiety type requires a tailored therapeutic approach.
What therapies help with anxiety and addiction together?
Evidence-based therapies include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to challenge anxious thoughts and addictive behaviors, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation and distress tolerance, exposure therapy for specific fears, and mindfulness practices to manage both anxiety and cravings. These approaches address both conditions simultaneously.
Will my anxiety get worse when I stop using substances?
Anxiety may temporarily increase during early withdrawal and recovery as your brain chemistry rebalances. This is normal and expected. Quality dual diagnosis treatment provides support through this period with therapy, appropriate non-addictive medication, coping skills training, and medical monitoring. Long-term, treating both conditions properly leads to significant improvement in anxiety symptoms beyond what substances ever provided.
How do I find a treatment center for anxiety and addiction?
Look for centers explicitly offering dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder treatment. Verify they have licensed mental health professionals, psychiatric services, medication management capabilities, and experience treating both conditions together. Use our directory to filter for dual diagnosis programs, read facility details, and verify accreditation. Contact admissions teams to discuss your specific needs.
Does insurance cover anxiety and addiction treatment?
Most health insurance plans cover dual diagnosis treatment under mental health and substance use benefits, thanks to the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. Coverage varies by plan and may include inpatient, outpatient, detox, therapy, and psychiatric services. Contact your insurance provider or the treatment center's admissions team to verify your specific coverage and out-of-pocket costs.
Is it safe to stop taking Xanax cold turkey?
No, never stop taking Xanax (alprazolam) or any benzodiazepine abruptly. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can cause life-threatening seizures, psychosis, delirium, and death. A medically supervised taper — gradually reducing the dose over weeks or months — is the only safe way to discontinue benzodiazepines. If you are taking Xanax and want to stop, talk to a medical professional about a safe tapering plan. Learn more about prescription drug treatment.
How long does anxiety last after getting sober?
Rebound anxiety is typically most intense during the first 1–4 weeks of sobriety as the brain adjusts to functioning without substances. Most people see gradual improvement over 2–6 months as brain chemistry normalizes. Some experience post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) including anxiety for up to a year. With proper medication, therapy, and ongoing support, anxiety becomes increasingly manageable over time. The vast majority of people in recovery report significantly less anxiety after 6–12 months of sobriety than they experienced while actively using.
Medical Review and Sources
Trusted Resources
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Federal agency providing information, resources, and treatment locator for substance abuse and mental health.
Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
National Institute on Drug Abuse
NIH institute advancing science on drug use and addiction causes, consequences, and treatment.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
NIH institute supporting research on alcohol's impact on health and providing treatment resources.
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