As anxiety and depression medications lead to addiction to dangerous prescription drugs, so does substance abuse lead to anxiety disorders. Clearly, both problems are serious and need to be managed and treated.
Those who struggle with substance abuse, also face side effects of developing an anxiety disorder. For those who already struggle with anxiety disorders, substance abuse will further damage and strain the persons emotional health. Luckily, there is always hope through programs like prescription drug addiction treatment or dual diagnosis treatment. Both anxiety disorder and substance addiction can be treated, regardless of which one of them was diagnosed first.
The Chemical Connection Between Anxiety Disorder and Substance Addiction
The chemicals in substances such as marijuana, cocaine, hallucinogens, and prescription pain relievers, as well as substances that seem harmless like caffeine, may affect how the brain functions and cause symptoms of anxiety, such as:
- Consistent paranoia
- Worry and nervousness
- Panic, as if about to die
- Insomnia
- Concentration difficulties
- Memory loss
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Heartbeat acceleration
- Trouble breathing
- Sweating
These symptoms are not only found during the use of the substances but also weeks after the use of these substances has stopped. The cycles of depression and anxiety can be difficult to break, especially after the effects of the substances have worn off, the pressures of using again can be strong while seeming “comfortable.” Those struggling with anxiety disorders resulting from substance addiction may try to treat the problem with more substance abuse.
While, having just one of these disorders is hard enough, being diagnosed with both substance addiction and anxiety disorder can be even more complicating.
Behavioral Symptoms
- Counterfeit drug prescription
- Inability to make good decisions
- Unusually lethargic or hyper
- Stealing prescriptions from family or friends
- Doctor shopping
- Irritation once prescription drug runs out
- Taking prescription drugs for nonmedical purposes
Psychological Symptoms
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
Diagnosing
Anxiety and depression medication can create a path straight to substance addiction. Those who struggle with anxiety disorders may turn to substance abuse in order to manage their anxiety disorder. In order to diagnose effectively and correctly, it’s important to understand the deep seed of the problem, whether it’s substance addiction or anxiety disorder that led to the given behaviors.
During the diagnose, mental and physical evaluations should be performed. The doctor will ask questions regarding symptoms, drugs or even alcohol, and other habitual actions. The evaluations and tests performed on blood and urine can tell the type and the number of substances left in your body, which will help determine whether or not if the problems arose from symptoms of anxiety.
Why Is Dual Diagnosis And Why Is It Important?
Dual diagnosis is a term used to describe the co-occurrence of a mental health disorder and substance abuse or addiction. It is a complex and often overlooked issue that affects many individuals around the world.
Understanding dual diagnosis is crucial because it can significantly impact an individual’s treatment and recovery journey. When both mental health disorders and substance abuse are present, they can interact with one another, making the treatment process more challenging.
Moreover, dual diagnosis can also increase the risk of relapse and worsen symptoms of both conditions. Therefore, it is essential to address both issues simultaneously in order to effectively treat dual diagnosis individuals and improve their overall well-being.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Seasons in Malibu
Dual diagnosis treatment at Seasons in Malibu is a unique approach to treating substance abuse disorders and mental health issues. It recognizes that both conditions often occur together, and therefore require a comprehensive treatment plan.
At Seasons in Malibu, we understand the complexity of dual diagnosis and the impact it can have on an individual’s life. That’s why our team of highly trained professionals is dedicated to providing personalized and evidence-based treatment for both substance abuse and mental health disorders.
Our dual diagnosis program includes a thorough assessment of each individual’s needs and the development of a customized treatment plan that addresses both conditions simultaneously. This may include therapy, medication management, support groups, and holistic approaches such as yoga and meditation.
Anxiety and depression medication can definitely lead to addiction. Don’t let dual diagnosis hold you back any longer. Recovery is possible, and we are here to support you every step of the way. So, take the first step on the path to recovery. Contact us today at 424.235.2009.