How to Safely Overcome Your Xanax Addiction
Xanax Overview
Xanax is a medication that works to balance the chemicals in the brain in order to treat depression, panic disorders, and other anxiety disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs generally referred to as benzodiazepines. Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States for treating anxiety. The drug increases the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, giving the individual a calm and relaxed feeling. Because of its effects, Xanax addiction is extremely common.1
It is advisable to use the medication only when prescribed by a medical physician and not for recreational purposes. Xanax is an addictive substance, and even individuals that use it as prescribed by a medical professional can also develop Xanax addiction. Although the medication has been proven to have mental health benefits, it is vital to be careful and only use it as prescribed to avoid developing a Xanax addiction.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication; doctors often prescribe it for patients experiencing mental health issues and insomnia. These mental health issues include panic attacks, excessive worry, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Although it also helps individuals in acute distress to feel calm, it is not a medication used for the long term.
The prolonged use of Xanax can lead to the individual developing dependence on the drug. Individuals experiencing Xanax addiction tend to experience some withdrawal symptoms whenever they stop taking it. The withdrawal signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction vary among individuals. It only takes a couple of days for an individual to develop a physical dependence on the medication.
Intensity of Withdrawal Symptoms
The intensity of the withdrawal symptoms depends on the length and quantity of dosage. According to research, 40% of individuals that take Xanax over six months tend to experience some moderate or severe withdrawal symptoms. However, the remaining 60% of these individuals may experience milder symptoms due to Xanax addiction.2
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Insomnia
- Muscle spasms
- Headaches
- Restlessness
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Fatigue
Acute Withdrawal Symptoms
- Dry heaving
- General anxiety
- Mental confusion
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Cravings
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
Withdrawal Complications
- Psychosis
- Coma
- Hallucinations
- Delirium tremens (DTs)
Medical Detox for Xanax Addiction
Medical detox is a process of ridding the body of toxins from an addictive substance under the supervision of medical professionals. These toxins may be a result of substance use disorders.
Detox is the first and vital step in an individual’s long-term sobriety from substance use disorder. It is a necessary step that helps with smooth addiction recovery.
How Long is Detox?
It is a short-term process that often takes place in a medical facility. Inpatient stabilization helps the individual to prepare for long-term treatment for substance use disorders.
Medical detox is suitable for individuals who have developed a dependence on a substance. If you expect withdrawal effects or symptoms from a drug, it is best to do a medical detox.
Why is Medical Detox Important?
The body requires a strict chemical balance to function properly, and repeated drug use can disrupt this balance. Drug abuse often alters the physical brain structure and levels of neurotransmitters. The following are some of the advantages of medical detoxification:
- Medical detox helps individuals relieve dangerous withdrawal symptoms by making them more comfortable.
- Although medical detox does not always occur in hospitals, it often occurs under medical professionals’ supervision in a licensed facility.
- It provides necessary information for developing an effective treatment plan.
Aftercare and Extended Treatment Opportunities
After a successful detox from a substance use disorder, there is a need for aftercare treatment. Aftercare is ongoing treatment for individuals undergoing drug addiction recovery. It can be in the form of an intensive outpatient or inpatient rehab program. Aftercare is vital because it helps reduce the individual’s relapse risk. According to research, the relapse rate of individuals experiencing substance use disorder is as high as 65%.3
Life Coach
Life coaches offer support and guidance for individuals recovering from substance abuse. They serve as a mentor to these individuals to make the recovery process more manageable.
Life coaching gives the patients someone to lean on when they go through any difficult phase during the recovery process.
Therapy and Counseling
This option involves counseling and therapy sessions held multiple times daily in an inpatient rehab facility. Continuing therapy and counseling after leaving rehab is vital in recovering from Xanax addiction or other substance use disorders. It is crucial for newly recovered individuals to attend weekly or daily sessions. These individuals can gradually reduce the frequency of their sessions as their sobriety is more secure.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Medication-Assisted Therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Sober Living Homes
Sober living homes are residential facilities for people recovering from substance use disorder. Some of these homes are allied with government organizations and rehab facilities; however, most operate independently. These homes have been proven to reduce the risks of relapse and increase the likelihood of remaining sober.
Facility-Based Programsity-Based Programs
Most rehab facilities also offer aftercare programs. These programs have various scopes and objectives, which vary tremendously. These facilities provide aftercare programs for their patients after they undergo treatments. Some of the aftercare programs offered by these facilities offer alumni support groups, follow-up therapy, and medical evaluations.
Overcome Your Xanax Addiction at Essence Healthcare
Xanax is a medication that helps to relax the body by acting on the brain and nerves. It helps effectively treat stress, panic, and anxiety disorder.
Despite its benefits, it is addictive even when used as prescribed by a medical specialist. If you or someone you know is struggling with a Xanax addiction, Essence Healthcare is here to help.
What We Offer
At Essence Healthcare, our goal is to help our patients live a healthy life in long-term recovery. We understand that every person’s recovery journey looks different. This is why our team of caring and compassionate health care professionals works with you to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
We offer a variety of treatment options, including psychotherapy, peer support groups, medication-assisted treatment, and more holistic approaches. These include yoga, meditation, and mindfulness exercises.
Contact Essence Healthcare Today
Xanax addiction can be devastating to both you and the people around you, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to Essence Healthcare today for more information about our available treatment options.
