NWVCIL Logo
Medically Reviewed Content
Updated: May 2026
Sources: SAMHSA, NIDA

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 7,770 rehab centers specializing in anxiety disorders across the United States.

Need Help Finding the Right Treatment Center?

Speak with a compassionate specialist now - 100% free & confidential

Call +1 (833) 244-3031
Available 24/7
All 50 States

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.

Filters:

Showing 20 of 7770 results

Stages of Recovery Inc

Situated in Waco, TX, Stages of Recovery Inc provides targeted treatment for adults facing substance use challenges alongside significant mental health disorders, as well as emotional issues in children. The center features a range of treatment options including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and day programs, utilizing methods such as 12-step support, anger management, and brief intervention strategies. It offers specialized programs for military personnel, adult males, survivors of intimate partner violence, and other domestic violence victims, catering to individuals of all ages and genders. Stages of Recovery Inc emphasizes personalized care plans and evidence-supported techniques to assist clients in their recovery process.

Stages of Recovery Inc

Stages of Recovery Inc in Lubbock, TX provides extensive treatment for substance use issues, catering to both adults and children who also face mental health challenges. The center offers various programs, including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and day treatment, and emphasizes methods such as 12-step support, anger management, and concise intervention strategies. There are specialized offerings for active military members, adult men, and survivors of intimate partner violence. With a commitment to individualized care for all clients, regardless of gender, the center strives to deliver effective rehabilitation services in a nurturing setting, helping individuals navigate their recovery journey.

Stages of Recovery Inc
Oklahoma City, OK

Situated in Oklahoma City, OK, Stages of Recovery Inc delivers an extensive variety of treatment services aimed at addressing substance use issues for both adults and young adults. The center focuses on managing co-occurring substance use disorders in conjunction with significant mental health conditions or emotional challenges. With options including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and standard outpatient treatment, Stages of Recovery Inc offers personalized care through methods like 12-step facilitation, anger management, and brief intervention strategies. This facility is particularly recognized for its unique programs catering to active military personnel, adult males, and survivors of intimate partner or domestic violence. Committed to serving both male and female clients, Stages of Recovery Inc strives to provide exceptional, customized support to assist individuals in their recovery journeys.

Stairway Resource Center
Woodland Hills, CA

Situated in Woodland Hills, CA, the Stairway Resource Center delivers a wide range of rehabilitation services aimed at adults and young adults facing challenges related to substance use and concurrent mental health conditions. The center specializes in intensive outpatient programs, outpatient day treatment, and partial hospitalization. Emphasizing approaches such as 12-step facilitation, anger management, and brief intervention, the center serves both men and women, including those who have encountered intimate partner violence. Stairway Resource Center is committed to offering exceptional care that is customized to the specific needs of each client, facilitating a supportive and successful recovery experience.

Starlite Recovery Center
Center Point, TX

At Starlite Recovery Center in Center Point, TX, adults and young adults can access a complete spectrum of addiction care. The center delivers detox, substance abuse treatment, and dedicated support for dual diagnoses involving serious mental health or emotional conditions. Offering diverse pathways like intensive outpatient, extended residential stays, and outpatient services, Starlite Recovery Center adapts to individual requirements. Their recovery model incorporates 12-step guidance, anger management techniques, and targeted interventions, fostering a tailored and successful path to sobriety. Specific programs are also provided for active military personnel, adult men, and adult women. Starlite Recovery Center is committed to delivering superior support for those pursuing freedom from addiction.

Stable Community Services

Stable Community Services located in Burlington, NJ, provides an extensive selection of treatment options for those facing challenges with substance abuse and related mental health issues. This center features intensive outpatient programs, standard outpatient services, and specialized pathways for individuals experiencing co-occurring disorders. Emphasizing methods such as 12-step support, anger management strategies, and cognitive behavioral therapy, the facility customizes its approach to fit the diverse requirements of both adults and youth. Additionally, it offers transitional housing and sober living arrangements, fostering a nurturing atmosphere for clients of all genders who are committed to recovery. With a dedication to high-quality treatment, Stable Community Services emerges as a reliable option for individuals embarking on their healing journey.

Star Center Inc
Detroit, MI

Located in Detroit, MI, Star Center Inc specializes in outpatient services for adults and young adults dealing with substance use issues. The center emphasizes motivational interviewing techniques and strategies for preventing relapse, offering customized counseling for those facing substance use disorders. They feature distinct programs tailored to adult men, women, and individuals impacted by domestic or intimate partner violence. The treatment options include outpatient services for methadone/buprenorphine or naltrexone, alongside ongoing outpatient support for both genders. Star Center Inc is committed to delivering high-quality, personalized care to assist individuals as they work towards recovery.

Starcare Specialty Health System

Starcare Specialty Health System, located in Lubbock, TX, provides extensive outpatient care for individuals struggling with addiction and related mental health challenges. They offer tailored programs for adults and youth, with specific support for expectant and new mothers and those with complex dual diagnoses. Employing proven methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing, the center emphasizes preventing relapse and delivering personalized support. Starcare fosters a nurturing and encouraging setting for healing, accommodating all ages and genders. For those desiring robust treatment that addresses overall wellness, this institution is committed to guiding you toward sustained recovery and improved mental health.

Starlight Community Services Inc

Starlight Community Services Inc, located in San Jose, CA, provides exceptional outpatient care for adults battling substance abuse and complex mental health conditions, as well as children experiencing emotional challenges. Their comprehensive approach includes 12-step integration, anger management techniques, and concise intervention methods. The center actively supports adolescents, adult men, and adult women, demonstrating a commitment to diverse populations. They are dedicated to delivering superior treatment and personalized strategies to meet every individual's specific requirements. For those in search of supportive and successful recovery options, this organization stands as a guiding light.

Stage by Staige
Kasson, MN

Situated in Kasson, MN, Stage by Staige specializes in treatment for adults and young adults struggling with substance use and concurrent significant mental health challenges or emotional issues. This center offers a range of programs, including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and standard outpatient care, utilizing methods like 12-step facilitation, anger management, and brief intervention strategies. They provide distinct programs designed for adult men, adult women, and individuals who have faced sexual abuse. With an emphasis on catering to various genders and age groups, Stage by Staige delivers thorough support for anyone on their path to recovery. Their exceptional services and customized treatment plans position them as a leading option for addiction rehabilitation.

StarCare Specialty Health System

StarCare Specialty Health System, located in Lubbock, TX, specializes in outpatient care for individuals dealing with substance use disorders and accompanying mental health challenges in both adults and children. The center employs a variety of evidence-based methods, including motivational interviewing, brief interventions, and 12-step support, to provide personalized treatment plans for adult clients, encompassing men, women, and those facing dual diagnoses. With a particular emphasis on young adults and offering a selection of gender-specific programs, StarCare is dedicated to delivering customized care for every individual. Its unwavering commitment to high-quality treatment and wide-ranging services positions StarCare as a reliable option for effective and empathetic rehabilitation in the Lubbock community.

Starlight Community Services

Starlight Community Services, located in San Jose, CA, provides outpatient treatment for adults facing substance use challenges alongside significant mental health disorders and emotional issues in children. Their customized programs incorporate 12-step support, anger management techniques, and short-term interventions. With specific pathways designed for adolescents, adult men, and adult women, the center serves a variety of age groups and genders. Committed to compassionate care and utilizing evidence-based methods, this facility emphasizes holistic recovery and tailored assistance. If you or someone you care about requires thorough addiction treatment in a supportive setting, Starlight Community Services is committed to helping you achieve sustainable recovery.

STARS Nashville TX/Recovery

STARS Nashville TX/Recovery, located in Nashville, TN, specializes in providing multifaceted addiction treatment for adults and young individuals struggling with co-occurring serious mental health conditions or emotional distress. The facility offers a spectrum of care, including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and standard outpatient services, all designed to address specific client requirements. Targeted programs are available for adolescents, adult women, and individuals who have endured sexual abuse. This center prioritizes high-quality support, welcoming both male and female patients. STARS Nashville TX/Recovery is recognized for its commitment to offering impactful treatment and ongoing assistance to those pursuing healing from substance dependence and mental health concerns.

START Treatment and Recovery Centers

START Treatment and Recovery Centers, located in New York, NY, delivers focused outpatient programs for substance use treatment aimed at both adults and young adults. The center employs proven strategies, including brief interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, to ensure customized support for individuals on the path to recovery. With an emphasis on inclusivity, START features dedicated programs for adult men and women, as well as clients who have faced incidents of intimate partner or domestic violence. Moreover, the center offers outpatient treatment options using methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, fostering a well-rounded and supportive atmosphere for clients striving for sobriety.

Stanislaus Recovery Center

Stanislaus Recovery Center, located in Ceres, CA, provides a wide array of addiction recovery services for both adults and young adults. The facility offers detox services, treatment for substance use disorders, and targeted support for individuals dealing with both addiction and serious mental health challenges, as well as for children experiencing significant emotional issues. Treatment options encompass intensive outpatient services, long-term residential care, and various outpatient programs, allowing for a personalized treatment strategy that caters to each person's unique situation. Additionally, the center features specialized programs for men and women, as well as individuals who have faced domestic or intimate partner violence. By focusing on techniques such as 12-step facilitation, anger management, and brief intervention strategies, the center promotes a comprehensive recovery process, ensuring high-quality support for all clients.

START Treatment and Recovery Centers

START Treatment and Recovery Centers, located in New York, NY, provides extensive outpatient treatment for adults dealing with substance use issues, including those facing serious mental health challenges concurrently. The center emphasizes specialized interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy, anger management, and short-term therapies, catering to both male and female clients. START's programs are inclusive, addressing the needs of active military members, seniors, and younger individuals, ensuring that treatment plans are customized for each person's circumstances. The center also offers outpatient options for methadone/buprenorphine or naltrexone treatments, focusing on delivering high-quality care to facilitate recovery. With a commitment to meeting the distinct requirements of every client, START Treatment and Recovery Centers fosters a nurturing atmosphere for individuals on their path to overcoming addiction.

START Treatment and Recovery Centers

Situated in New York, NY, START Treatment and Recovery Centers provides comprehensive services such as outpatient detox, treatment for substance use disorders, and outpatient options for methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. The center employs various therapeutic methods, including anger management, brief interventions, and cognitive behavioral therapy. It features specialized programs designed for active duty military personnel as well as adult men and women, addressing a wide range of needs. Serving both adults and young adults regardless of gender, START Treatment and Recovery Centers is committed to delivering personalized, high-quality care to support recovery and well-being in a nurturing atmosphere.

Placeholder image

Stages of Recovery Inc in Abilene, TX, delivers an extensive array of evidence-informed therapies for addressing substance use disorders and concurrent mental health issues in both adults and children. The center features specialized services for active military members, men, and individuals who have experienced domestic abuse, ensuring that the care provided is customized to meet varied requirements. Their outpatient services, which encompass treatments such as methadone and buprenorphine, serve both adults and youths. By employing methods including 12-step programs and anger management techniques, the facility aims to promote a well-rounded recovery process. Stages of Recovery Inc is committed to high standards of care, supported by a collaborative team focused on helping clients achieve enduring sobriety and enhanced mental health.

Placeholder image
Decatur, GA

STAND Inc, located in Decatur, GA, specializes in extensive treatment for substance use, emphasizing transitional housing and sober living arrangements. The facility offers various programs including intensive outpatient treatment, outpatient day treatment, and partial hospitalization, employing proven methods such as anger management, cognitive behavioral therapy, and brief interventions. STAND Inc is particularly recognized for its tailored programs aimed at adult males, those facing intimate partner violence, survivors of domestic abuse, and individuals living with HIV/AIDS. The center serves both adults and young adults of all genders, ensuring a nurturing and high-quality setting for individuals on their recovery journey from addiction.

Placeholder image
Baltimore, MD

Standing Strong in Baltimore, MD, delivers extensive support for men battling addiction, incorporating structured living environments. Their expertise lies in addressing dual diagnoses of substance abuse and significant mental health conditions in adults, alongside emotional challenges in younger individuals. Offering a range of treatment durations, including extended stays and shorter programs, the center employs proven therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. Specialized services are available for individuals managing both mental health concerns and substance dependence. Primarily serving adult males, Standing Strong is dedicated to providing personalized, effective recovery pathways for those facing addiction and mental well-being hurdles.

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

Medically Reviewed Updated April 10, 2026

Reviewed by licensed addiction specialists. Information reflects current clinical guidance.

Sources:SAMHSA·NIDA·CDC

Need Help Finding Treatment Now?

Speak with a compassionate specialist who can help you find the right dual diagnosis program for anxiety and addiction — 100% free and confidential, available 24/7.

Find Anxiety Disorders by State

Browse anxiety disorders programs in states with the most treatment options.