Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of people each year. Research has shown that anxiety and substance use disorders often occur together, which can complicate recovery from both. While searching for mental health help in Texas, you may have questions about anxiety treatment programs at Santé Center for Healing and how our dual diagnosis approach works. Taking time to learn more about these topics can help you make informed decisions as you pursue your recovery journey.
Anxiety and Substance Abuse: What Is the Connection?
Even though research has shown that there is a connection between anxiety and substance use disorder, the exact causes are not yet known. However, there are a few theories that may explain the relationship between anxiety and substance use:
- Self-medicating – The symptoms of anxiety can become overwhelming to people who have the condition, leading them to seek relief from their symptoms in any way they can find. This might explain why some people with anxiety turn to alcohol or illicit drugs, even though addiction can complicate anxiety.
- Substance-induced anxiety – Although it seems counterintuitive, using anti-anxiety medication too much can actually make anxiety worse over time. The cycle of anxiety, taking medication, and “rebound” anxiety can create a serious issue for people living with the condition.
- Neural pathways and genetics – Scientists are still looking into these theories, but there is strong evidence that people can be genetically predisposed to having certain types of mental health conditions, as well as substance use disorders.
Anxiety treatment is a healthy path for someone living with uncontrolled stress—especially if they also have a substance use disorder.
What Is Anxiety Treatment Like?
Choosing to get help for anxiety is very brave but can also be a bit scary. It can be reassuring to understand more about what treatment options are out there and how they can help. Some of the elements of anxiety and substance abuse treatment are:
- Detox – During a detox program, clients who are dealing with a serious addiction are given medications and counseling to help them navigate the early stages of recovery as safely and comfortably as possible.
- Residential treatment – This type of program offers a safe, recovery-focused environment in which clients participate in individual counseling, group therapy, and other therapeutic activities. Clients stay at the treatment center full-time.
- Intensive outpatient program (IOP) – An IOP is similar to a residential program, with the same level of care and treatment, but clients return to their residences each evening. This can be a transitional step for those who have completed a residential program.
- Outpatient counseling and support groups – After completing the intensive phases of an anxiety treatment program, clients often wish to continue counseling on a less intensive outpatient basis. For clients dealing with substance abuse issues, support groups such as Narcotics or Alcoholics Anonymous can offer a way to stay connected in recovery.
Participating in the different levels of dual diagnosis treatment can provide a clear, supportive start to the recovery journey.
Santé Center for Healing: Offering Anxiety Treatment in Texas
At our treatment center in Argyle, Texas, for the past 25 years, we have offered inclusive, comprehensive, and impactful therapy for long-term recovery from mental health conditions and substance use disorders. Each client receives an individualized treatment plan so that they get the help they need in the best way for them. Our alumni program allows clients to stay connected to a strong, recovery-focused community. If you or someone you love has been struggling with anxiety and substance abuse, contact us today at 866.238.3154 to get started on the road to recovery.