It’s not unusual for people to turn to drugs and alcohol to deal with their mental health issues. They may be reluctant to reach out for any number of reasons. They may be afraid of what people will think of them, they may not feel their issues are that bad, or they may not have the time or money to deal with them. Instead of getting the help they need, they turn to illicit substances to reduce their symptoms.
While drugs and alcohol may provide temporary relief, they typically make mental health worse in the long run. People who use may experience soaring highs followed by devastating lows that lead them to a vicious cycle.
Anxiety is a mental illness that is commonly self-medicated with alcohol and other types of drugs. This article will look at how anxiety and alcohol use disorders are related.
What is Anxiety?
I think it’s safe to say that we have all experienced anxiety at some point in our lives. We are familiar with the stress, the racing heartbeat, the nervousness, and all the other symptoms that come with it.
Most of us can relieve anxiety by dealing with our problems, meditating, breathing deeply, and using other relaxation techniques. But for some, it’s not that easy.
Some people experience feelings of anxiety that may not come about for any specific reason. It can last for several days, weeks, or months. It can get in the way of their ability to enjoy life or even perform basic tasks.
When anxiety is as bad as this, a person should seek professional help. But many choose not to. They self-medicate with alcohol instead.
What is Alcohol Use Disorder?
Many of us occasionally enjoy an alcoholic beverage, but some don’t know when to stop. They drink to the point where they build a tolerance to alcohol, so they need to increase their drinking amount to get the same effect.
After a while, they may also develop withdrawal symptoms. Their bodies get so used to having the alcohol in their system that they can’t function without it. When they are sober, they react by shaking, becoming feverish, getting headaches, experiencing high anxiety, and more.
Other symptoms of alcohol use disorder include:
- Slurred speech
- Dangerous behavior
- Nausea and vomiting
- Legal issues
- Troubled relationships
- Mood swings
- Problems with coordination
- Blackouts
- Dizziness
- Financial difficulties
Knowing When It’s Time to Get Help with Anxiety and Alcohol Use Disorders
It is typical for people to drink when they feel anxious. Alcohol is a sedative that depresses the central nervous system producing a calming effect. And this may be okay when done in moderation. But when someone has an anxiety disorder and drinks constantly, an addiction may start to form.
Moreover, in the long run, alcohol use can make anxiety worse. Prolonged drinking has been known to increase anxiety disorders. In fact, even drinking in moderation can worsen anxiety after a few hours.
If you find yourself turning to alcohol often to reduce anxiety symptoms, it’s time to get help. If you are experiencing the symptoms of alcohol use disorder listed above, don’t wait another day.
How Laguna View Detox Can Help
There are many rehabs that offer help for anxiety and alcohol use disorders, and it can take hours to find the one that’s right for you. You can save some time by checking out Laguna View Detox first.
Laguna View Detox is a luxury rehab facility located in the peaceful and upscale community of Laguna Beach. We offer detoxification, inpatient treatment, and an aftercare and alumni program. Our caring staff provides the ultimate in-care for each patient.
When it comes to treating anxiety and alcohol use disorder, we take a dual diagnosis approach. This entails treating the addiction and its underlying cause of anxiety simultaneously. A variety of therapies can be integrated, and we will find the one that works best for you. Our program is proven to provide long-lasting recovery results.
Anxiety and alcohol use disorder is a slippery slope. Don’t let it set the path for your life. Call Laguna Beach Detox today. We will provide a plan that helps you leave your dependency issues behind you.