Anxiety and substance use disorder (SUD) are two common mental health issues that frequently co-occur, resulting in a complex and interconnected pattern of behavior that is difficult to navigate. Both medical conditions have serious consequences for a person’s health yet understanding their relationship is critical for providing proper care and treatment.
Anxiety disorders, which involve intense feelings of fear or worry, can often lead individuals to self-medicate with substances like alcohol, prescription medications, or illicit drugs. In turn, substance misuse can exacerbate or trigger anxiety, creating a dangerous cycle that is difficult to break.
Here, we look at how anxiety and substance abuse disorders are related, and the root causes of such co-occurrence.
Understanding Anxiety and Substance Use Disorder
Anxiety is a natural psychological response when stressed and often accompanied by uneasiness, worry, or fear. It can take a variety of shapes, such as social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and specific fears.
However, persistent use of drugs, alcohol, or different drugs despite adverse results is an indicator of substance use disorder.
Cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and ongoing substance use even when it harms relationships, health, or other aspects of life are all related to SUD, which frequently results in psychological and physical dependence.
The Interconnection Between Substance Use Disorder and Anxiety
Anxiety and SUD have a complex relationship, with one of them often making the other worse. Many people who suffer from anxiety self-medicate by using alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes to relieve their severe symptoms temporarily.
People with GAD may use substances to alleviate their constant worry, while those with panic disorder may turn to alcohol or benzodiazepines in an attempt to manage panic attacks.
The stress of continuing an addicted drug use pattern, battling signs of withdrawal, or suffering the negative consequences of substance use can also lead to anxiety disorders.
Common Substance Use Disorders Associated with Anxiety
Individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders may be more likely to misuse certain substances in an attempt to manage their symptoms. The substances that are most commonly abused by those with anxiety disorders often have calming, sedative, or mood-altering effects. Here are some of the most common substance use disorders linked to anxiety:
Alcohol
Many individuals with anxiety disorders turn to alcohol as a way to self-medicate. Alcohol has depressant properties that can temporarily reduce feelings of anxiety or help people feel more relaxed in social situations. However, frequent alcohol use can quickly lead to dependence, and over time, it worsens anxiety symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle of alcohol abuse and anxiety.
Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan, Valium)
Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, as they have a calming effect on the nervous system. Unfortunately, they also carry a high potential for abuse, especially when used outside of a doctor’s supervision. Many individuals with anxiety misuse these medications to cope with heightened anxiety or stress, leading to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
Opioids (e.g., prescription painkillers like Oxycodone or heroin)
People with anxiety disorders may misuse opioids as a way to escape feelings of worry or tension. Opioids have powerful sedative effects that can temporarily numb both physical and emotional pain. However, these substances are highly addictive, and long-term misuse can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
Stimulants (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine)
Though stimulant drugs may seem counterintuitive for individuals with anxiety, some people with anxiety disorders misuse stimulants to enhance their mood or counter feelings of sluggishness caused by anxiety medications or depression. Unfortunately, stimulant abuse can trigger heightened anxiety and lead to dangerous physical and psychological consequences.
Marijuana
Marijuana is another substance that some individuals with anxiety may turn to in order to manage their symptoms. While it may offer short-term relief, marijuana use can lead to a greater sense of anxiety and paranoia in some individuals, making it a problematic coping mechanism for those already dealing with anxiety disorders.
Stage of Anxiety and Substance Use
The Anxiety-Substance Use Cycle Co-occurring substance use and anxiety can lead to a vicious circle that is difficult to get out of. As an example, using drugs to treat anxiety may offer brief respite, but it frequently results in withdrawal symptoms, increased anxiety, and a need to use pills again.
This cycle can significantly impact a person’s physical and emotional well-being, contributing to feelings of hopelessness and reducing motivation to seek treatment.
How Anxiety Affects Substance Use
Anxiety can significantly impact an individual’s ability to function in everyday life. People with anxiety disorders often experience:
- Excessive worry about future events, health, or social situations.
- Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, dizziness, or muscle tension.
- Panic attacks, which can cause overwhelming fear and physical symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.
To manage these distressing symptoms, some individuals may start using substances like alcohol or prescription drugs to alleviate feelings of unease. For example, alcohol is often used as a temporary relief for social anxiety, while prescription sedatives may be misused to reduce feelings of panic or stress.
Unfortunately, while substances may provide short-term relief, they do not address the root cause of anxiety. In fact, prolonged substance use can worsen anxiety symptoms and lead to physical dependence, resulting in substance use disorder.
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety and Substance Use Disorder
The co-occurrence of anxiety and substance use disorder (SUD) presents unique challenges when it comes to recognizing and treating both conditions. The signs and symptoms of each can overlap, making diagnosis difficult. Below are the common symptoms of both anxiety disorders and substance use disorders:
Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders:
- Excessive worry about daily activities, future events, or health.
- Physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness, or sweating.
- Panic attacks, which include overwhelming feelings of fear, chest pain, difficulty breathing, and dizziness.
- Avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding certain situations that trigger anxiety, including social events or public speaking.
- Restlessness and difficulty relaxing or sleeping due to constant worry.
Symptoms of Substance Use Disorder:
- Cravings for the substance, often leading to repeated use despite negative consequences.
- Tolerance, where increasing amounts of the substance are needed to achieve the desired effect.
- Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shaking, and irritability when attempting to stop using the substance.
- Neglect of responsibilities, such as ignoring work or family duties in favor of using substances.
- Continued use despite harmful effects, including worsening health, damaged relationships, or legal issues.
When both conditions are present, individuals may exhibit mood swings that shift between anxious thoughts and cravings for substances. Co-occurring disorders can lead to more severe withdrawal symptoms and an intensified mental health crisis.
The Challenges of Co-Occurring Disorders
When anxiety and substance use disorder occur together, they are referred to as co-occurring disorders or dual diagnosis. This condition requires specialized treatment to address both the mental health disorder and the substance use disorder simultaneously.
Co-occurring disorders can make treatment more complex, as individuals may experience symptoms of both conditions that overlap or interact in negative ways. For instance, withdrawal symptoms from substances can mimic or worsen anxiety symptoms, making it difficult for individuals to differentiate between the two.
Effective treatment for co-occurring disorders often requires a holistic approach, focusing on both Anxiety Disorder Treatment and Addiction Treatment Programs. Treatment may include individual therapy, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment to help individuals manage anxiety symptoms without resorting to substance use.
Risk Factors for Co-occurring Anxiety and Substance Use Disorder
Anxiety and SUD may occur together due to a variety of factors, such as psychological, ecological, and genetic factors:
Gene risk: Genealogical factors have a significant influence on substance abuse and anxiety problems. If someone has a genetic link to one of the sickness, they may be more inclined to develop both.
Sustainability Sources of stress: Events in life like abuse, trauma, or constant pressure can cause anxiety and substance abuse. These elements may cause people to turn to drugs as a way to adjust for intense feelings.
Psychology Factors: Anxiety and substance use disorders are more likely to develop in those who have negative behaviors, low self-esteem, and trouble regulating their feelings.
The Impact of Anxiety and Substance Use Disorder on Daily Life
The combination of anxiety and substance use disorder can significantly disrupt all areas of an individual’s life. This co-occurring disorder not only impacts personal health but can also have profound effects on relationships, work, and social interactions.
1. Personal Health and Well-being
Both anxiety and substance use disorder can take a serious toll on physical and mental health. Chronic anxiety can lead to long-term physical symptoms such as muscle tension, digestive issues, and heart problems. Likewise, substance use disorder can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, brain, and cardiovascular system. The combination of these two conditions can cause further health complications, requiring intensive care and treatment.
2. Work and Career
Anxiety and substance use disorder can make it difficult to maintain consistent employment or function effectively in a professional setting. Anxiety symptoms such as restlessness, concentration problems, and emotional instability may reduce work performance, while substance misuse can result in absenteeism, impaired decision-making, and lack of motivation. Over time, this may lead to job loss and career setbacks, increasing stress and exacerbating anxiety.
3. Relationships
The strain of dealing with both anxiety and substance use disorder can create significant challenges in personal relationships. Family members and friends may feel frustrated, worried, or helpless as they witness loved ones cycle through periods of withdrawal, intoxication, and heightened anxiety. Trust issues, mood swings, and erratic behaviors can lead to relationship breakdowns, which can further intensify feelings of isolation and anxiety.
4. Social Isolation
Individuals struggling with anxiety and substance use disorder may avoid social interactions due to fear of judgment or inability to cope with social situations. Those who use substances as a coping mechanism might isolate themselves from friends or family to continue their substance use in secret. This isolation can worsen both anxiety and the cycle of addiction.
5. Financial Impact
The cost of substance misuse can quickly escalate, leading to financial instability. Individuals may spend large amounts of money on substances, which can strain their finances, lead to legal trouble, or result in loss of employment. Anxiety about these financial issues can further aggravate mental health and substance misuse problems.
Get Rid of Anxiety with Bold Steps!
Getting professional support is crucial when you or someone you admire suffers from anxiety and Stress. Support networks, addiction specialists, and licensed therapists may give the tools and assistance required for sustained recovery.
Successful treatment strategies can be developed through being aware of and cognizant of the connection between substance use disorders and anxiety. Recovery is achievable and provides a route to a better, drug-free life with the correct help. So why wait? Take the first step toward recovery and contact us at (717) 896-1880 today.
Treatment Options for Anxiety and Substance Use Disorder
At Bold Steps Behavioral Health, we offer a variety of treatment programs designed to help individuals struggling with both anxiety and substance use disorder. Some of the key treatment options include:
Drug Detox Center
For individuals with substance use disorder, detoxification is often the first step in the recovery process. At our Drug Detox Center, we provide medically supervised detox services to help individuals safely and comfortably withdraw from drugs or alcohol. Detoxing under professional care reduces the risks associated with withdrawal and prepares individuals for ongoing treatment.
Anxiety Disorder Treatment
Our Anxiety Disorder Treatment programs are tailored to help individuals manage and overcome anxiety. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based therapies, we teach coping strategies and techniques that reduce anxiety symptoms without the need for substances.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
For individuals who need a structured treatment environment but are able to live at home, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offers flexible treatment. IOP provides regular therapy sessions and support while allowing individuals to continue with their daily lives. It is ideal for those seeking treatment for both anxiety and substance use disorder.
Outpatient Treatment Program
Our Outpatient Treatment Program offers ongoing support for individuals who have completed more intensive treatments but still need assistance with maintaining sobriety and managing anxiety. This program includes regular therapy sessions, relapse prevention, and coping strategies to address both mental health and substance use challenges.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
For individuals who need more intensive treatment than outpatient care but do not require 24/7 supervision, our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) offers a higher level of care. PHP combines therapy, group support, and medical supervision to address both anxiety and addiction in a structured, supportive environment.
FAQ for Anxiety and Substance Use Disorder
What is the relationship between anxiety and substance use disorder?
Anxiety and substance use disorder are often co-occurring, meaning that individuals with anxiety disorders may use substances to cope with their symptoms, and substance use can exacerbate anxiety. This creates a vicious cycle that can make it difficult for individuals to manage both conditions simultaneously.
What are the most common substances used by people with anxiety disorders?
Common substances used by individuals with anxiety disorders include alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, stimulants, and marijuana. These substances may provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms but can lead to addiction and worsen anxiety over time.
How can anxiety and substance use disorder be treated together?
Integrated treatment is the most effective approach for treating co-occurring anxiety and substance use disorder. This involves a combination of therapies and medication-assisted treatment. An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) may be recommended for individuals needing more structured care.
