Anxiety isn’t unusual. In fact, it’s the most commonly diagnosed behavioral health condition in the U.S. And originally, it had an important role in protecting people from danger. When we encounter a perceived threat — whether it’s a big presentation at work, or a big date — our brains can’t distinguish between the modern-day problem and the physical threat (such as a wild animal) that would have affected our ancestors. As a result, the brain’s “fight or flight” impulse engages. Our glands release adrenaline, our hearts pound and our blood pressure rises as we prepare to battle — or run — for our lives. When running from a wild animal, the “fight or flight” impulse is highly valuable. But in stressful situations we encounter in today’s world, it’s more likely to work against us.
When that highly alert state takes over and becomes the norm, it can indicate the presence of an anxiety disorder. These disorders can occur for no apparent reason — or they can occur as the result of unresolved trauma. When traumatic situations remain unprocessed by the brain, it can leave the system in a continuous state of alert and anxiety.
It’s unfortunately very common for people suffering from anxiety disorder to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. If you’re one of these people, know you’re not alone — and you’re not foolish for seeking a way to minimize the disorder’s symptoms. However, while you can get by managing your symptoms with drugs and alcohol for a while, it’s not an effective long-term strategy. The toxic substances can create anxiety in their own right, especially after they begin to wear off — and that compounds your existing anxiety. Also, as you come to rely on those substances, you can develop a psychological or physical addiction to them. Eventually, you build a tolerance to them and find they don’t work as well as they used to.
The good news is that there are much better and more effective ways of treating anxiety — from prescription medications that aren’t addictive, to therapy and holistic approaches. We can help you find the right way to recover today. Give Golden Peak Recovery a call now.
If you suffer from one of the many anxiety disorders, you may also experience rapid heartbeat, chest pain, shortness of breath, trembling hands, sweating, sleeplessnes, dizziness, choking, stomach pain and nausea.
You may also feel an overwhelming sense of fear that lasts for months at a time. You may also have repeated attempts to address that sense of fear, including reliance on substances or other behaviors to manage the symptoms. And in many cases, you may find yourself struggling with your social life, career, relationships and other facets of life
At Golden Peak Recovery in Denver, we understand the relationship between substance abuse and anxiety disorders. That’s why we treat the two together. We begin with medical detox, helping you to manage any withdrawal symptoms along the way so you’re safe and comfortable. Then, we’ll spend time with you and discuss your symptoms — then develop an individualized recovery plan to help you deal with both your co-occurring mental health conditions and your addiction. Through therapeutic options like dialectical behavioral therapy, acceptance commitment therapy and dialectical behavior therapy, you’ll learn how to manage your anxiety disorder in a positive, healthy way. You’ll also build lasting friendships to help you thrive in recovery.
