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.
Need Help Finding the Right Treatment Center?
Speak with a compassionate specialist now - 100% free & confidential
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.
Showing 20 of 9213 results
Sanctuary Sober Living LLC, located in Phoenix, AZ, delivers a full spectrum of addiction recovery options for adults and young adults. This facility is adept at treating dual diagnoses of substance abuse and mental health challenges, offering intensive outpatient, standard outpatient, and day treatment modalities. Their approach integrates 12-step principles, anger management techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy to ensure personalized treatment plans. Sanctuary Sober Living LLC has dedicated tracks for adult men and women, including those affected by domestic or partner abuse. The center cultivates a nurturing atmosphere for healing, serving both male and female individuals with high-caliber, evidence-supported therapeutic interventions.
Sandstone Care, situated in Denver, CO, delivers a full spectrum of addiction recovery support for individuals of all ages. Their offerings encompass detox services, comprehensive substance abuse rehabilitation, temporary residences, and sober living environments. Emphasizing personalized treatment plans, Sandstone Care provides intensive outpatient programs, day treatment, and partial hospitalization. They also feature tailored programs for those dealing with trauma, co-occurring mental health and addiction issues, and younger individuals. Employing methods like 12-step integration, emotional regulation training, and short-term therapeutic strategies, the center ensures high-quality care for all. Sandstone Care is committed to supporting individuals on their journey to enduring wellness and restoration.
Sandstone Care, located in Towson, MD, provides a wide array of services for those battling addiction and seeking to reclaim their lives. This center focuses on detox, treatment for substance use, and supportive living arrangements such as halfway houses and sober living environments. With various treatment options including intensive outpatient programs and partial hospitalization, the facility employs methods such as 12-step programs, brief interventions, and cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, it offers specialized support for adolescents, survivors of trauma, and individuals facing dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use disorders. Sandstone Care serves both adults and youth of all genders, ensuring that each person receives personalized care that reflects their specific circumstances.
Situated in Reston, VA, Sandstone Care delivers an extensive array of services aimed at treating addiction for adults, young children, and teenagers. This facility offers various options, including detox, substance abuse treatment, transitional living arrangements, and sober housing. Sandstone Care customizes its treatment strategies to meet personal requirements, featuring programs like intensive outpatient care and outpatient day services. Specialized initiatives are available for adolescents, individuals who have experienced trauma, and those facing both mental health challenges and substance use issues. The center employs techniques such as 12-step programs, anger management, and short interventions, striving to provide exceptional care for all clients, regardless of gender.
Sandstone Care located in Rockville, MD, presents a wide array of addiction recovery services customized to address the specific needs of individuals. The center encompasses detox services, treatment for substance use, transitional housing, and options for sober living. Various program formats are offered, including intensive outpatient, outpatient, and day treatment sessions. Sandstone Care is known for its expertise in 12-step methodologies, anger management, and short intervention strategies. Special programs are designed for teenagers, individuals with a history of trauma, and those experiencing simultaneous mental health and substance use challenges. The facility provides support for adults as well as children and adolescents of every gender, ensuring a focus on delivering high-quality care and comprehensive support for effective recovery.
Sandstone Care, located in Darien, IL, delivers an extensive array of services aimed at addressing addiction. This center offers detox services, addiction treatment, and transitional living arrangements, including halfway houses and sober living environments. It provides a variety of treatment options such as intensive outpatient programs, outpatient services, and day treatment, serving both adolescents and adults. Sandstone Care employs evidence-informed methodologies including 12-step support, brief interventions, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The facility has a focus on supporting individuals who have faced trauma, along with those dealing with simultaneous mental health and substance use challenges. Programs are customized to cater to the distinct needs of both male and female clientele, ensuring comprehensive and effective care.
Sandstone Care, located in Broomfield, CO, provides an extensive array of services for addiction recovery. The center emphasizes detox services, treatment for substance use disorders, and options for transitional living, including halfway houses and sober living facilities. Treatment modalities range from intensive outpatient programs to standard outpatient services and day treatments, catering to both adults and youth, with tailored programs specifically for adolescents, those who have faced trauma, and individuals with dual diagnoses of mental health and substance use issues. Utilizing a variety of methodologies such as 12-step programs, anger management techniques, and short-term interventions, Sandstone Care focuses on personalized care for every individual. The center is committed to offering effective, gender-sensitive treatment for both men and women.
Sandstone Care located in Colorado Springs, CO, provides a wide array of rehabilitation services that encompass detoxification, treatment for substance use disorders, and focused care for individuals facing concurrent addiction and significant mental health issues. The center features hospital-based inpatient treatments and utilizes various methodologies, including 12-step strategies and anger management techniques. It serves adult men and women, along with individuals who have encountered intimate partner violence. Catering to both adults and young adults of all genders, Sandstone Care ensures high-quality support in a nurturing setting, making it an excellent option for those in need of tailored and effective solutions for addiction and mental health concerns.
Sandstone Care, located in Buffalo Grove, IL, delivers a complete spectrum of addiction recovery programs designed for personalized care. Their services encompass detox, comprehensive substance abuse treatment, and supportive transitional living. Sandstone Care offers flexible treatment options like intensive outpatient, outpatient, and day programs, employing methods such as 12-step support, brief counseling, and cognitive behavioral techniques. They also have specialized tracks for young people, individuals dealing with trauma, and those with co-occurring mental health and addiction challenges. Catering to adults and young individuals of any gender, Sandstone Care in Buffalo Grove is dedicated to providing high-quality assistance for individuals pursuing sobriety.
Sandstone Care in Colorado Springs, CO, provides a complete spectrum of recovery support for those struggling with addiction. Their services encompass detox, substance abuse therapy, temporary accommodations, and sober living environments. Sandstone Care offers adaptable care through intensive outpatient, outpatient, and partial hospitalization programs. The center utilizes a variety of therapeutic methods, including 12-step encouragement, anger resolution, and brief counseling, to meet varied individual requirements. They also offer specialized care for young people, individuals who have experienced trauma, and those with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues. Sandstone Care assists both adults and younger individuals, providing personalized care for male and female clients across all their offerings.
Sandstone Care LLC, located in Crownsville, MD, specializes in a wide range of rehabilitation services designed for individuals of all ages and genders. The center's expertise includes detox programs, treatment for substance use disorders, and addressing co-existing mental health conditions. It offers various options, such as long-term residential care, detoxification services, and round-the-clock residential support. The facility employs diverse treatment methodologies, including the 12-step approach, anger management techniques, and brief interventions. Additionally, Sandstone Care LLC provides customized programs to meet the needs of adolescents, trauma survivors, and those with concurrent mental health challenges. Committed to delivering high-quality care, the center aims to support recovery for adults, children, and young adults in a nurturing and therapeutic setting.
Sandhills Behavioral Care PLLC, located in Rockingham, NC, specializes in outpatient detox services and treatments for substance use disorders, including care for those facing both substance use and severe mental health issues. The center offers outpatient options for methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, employing methods like 12-step facilitation, anger management, and brief interventions. Sandhills Behavioral Care PLLC also features programs specifically designed for active military members, teenagers, and adult males, serving individuals of all genders, including older adults. Patients can look forward to compassionate, effective treatment in a nurturing setting that emphasizes holistic recovery and sustained wellness.
Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health, situated in Indianapolis, IN, provides extensive outpatient care for individuals facing addiction, including detoxification and the management of co-occurring mental health conditions. They cater to adults experiencing substance use disorders and children with emotional disturbances. Their expertise lies in outpatient detox, methadone and buprenorphine therapies, and naltrexone treatment. Focusing on techniques such as anger management, brief interventions, and cognitive behavioral therapy, Sandra Eskenazi Mental Health delivers personalized support to adult women, expectant and new mothers, and those with dual diagnoses. They serve adults and young adults across genders, offering superior treatment and assistance for those pursuing specialized recovery and mental wellness services.
The Sandra Eskenazi MH Center located in Indianapolis, IN, provides a wide array of rehabilitation services designed for both adults and young adults dealing with substance use issues alongside comorbid mental health conditions. The center features intensive outpatient treatment, outpatient detox programs, and various forms of outpatient therapy, incorporating techniques such as anger management, brief interventions, and cognitive behavioral strategies. Catering to the specific needs of adult men, adult women, and individuals with dual diagnoses, the center emphasizes personalized treatment plans. With a commitment to high-quality care and diverse therapeutic options, it stands out as a reliable resource for individuals seeking meaningful rehabilitation support.
Sanford Behavioral Health, located in Bemidji, MN, provides an extensive selection of outpatient treatment options designed for individuals dealing with substance use issues and concurrent mental health conditions. The center focuses primarily on adult males, clients with dual diagnoses, and those involved in the legal system, administering evidence-based approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy and motivational incentives. With specialized offerings for both adults and younger populations, the facility includes various treatment modalities, such as methadone and buprenorphine. Sanford Behavioral Health is dedicated to delivering personalized and high-quality care, making it a reliable option for individuals in need of effective rehabilitation services within the Bemidji region.
Sands Freedom Center, situated in Sioux Falls, SD, delivers comprehensive evidence-based therapies for individuals battling substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Their offerings encompass intensive outpatient, extended residential, and standard outpatient care, employing proven methods like cognitive behavioral therapy, Contingency management, and the Matrix Model. Sands Freedom Center is equipped to serve adult men and women, younger adults, and those who have endured trauma, providing bespoke support designed for each person's unique journey. This establishment prioritizes exceptional and individualized recovery paths, fostering a nurturing atmosphere for those pursuing healing and wellness.
Adolescents and young adults are the focus at Sandstone Care Alexandria in Alexandria, Virginia, which provides outpatient detox, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and regular outpatient treatment with sober living options. Buprenorphine and naltrexone are used, and programs address co-occurring disorders and trauma. TRICARE, tribal funds, and private insurance are accepted.
Sandstone Care Detox Center in Chantilly, Virginia, provides hospital inpatient and residential detoxification plus short-term residential treatment for substance use disorders. Buprenorphine and naltrexone are used in care, and programs serve young adults and adults, including pregnant women and clients with co-occurring conditions. TRICARE and private insurance are accepted.
Adolescents and young adults are the focus at Sandstone Care Richmond in Glen Allen, Virginia, which offers outpatient detox, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and regular outpatient treatment alongside sober living options. Buprenorphine and naltrexone are available, and programs address co-occurring disorders and trauma. TRICARE, tribal funds, and private insurance are accepted.
Adolescents and young adults are the focus at Sandstone Care Virginia Beach in Virginia Beach, Virginia, which offers outpatient detox, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, and regular outpatient treatment with sober living options. Buprenorphine and naltrexone are used in care, and programs address co-occurring disorders and trauma. TRICARE, tribal funds, and private insurance are accepted.
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.
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.
Browse anxiety disorders programs in states with the most treatment options.
Related conditions, treatment approaches, and levels of care.