Rehab Treatment for Addiction and Anxiety Disorders

World Class Addiction Treatment

We give patients the therapeutic tools they need to stay abstinent and live fulfilled lives.

01721 546 263 Book Free Assessment

Castle Craig specialises in dual diagnosis treatment, addressing complex conditions such as alcohol use disorder paired with anxiety or substance use disorder alongside anxiety. As one of the UK’s longest-serving family-run drug and alcohol addiction rehab centres, Castle Craig has been offering expert care for over 30 years with tailored addiction and anxiety disorder treatments designed to support every individual’s unique needs.

For those seeking treatment for addiction and anxiety, Castle Craig provides an addiction and anxiety treatment programme tailored to address the challenges of co-occurring conditions. If you are seeking treatment for addiction and anxiety, contact Castle Craig today on 01721 546 263. If you are looking for more information on the relationship between anxiety and substance misuse, or have questions such as “does addiction cause anxiety?” or “can you get addicted to anxiety medication?”, simply continue reading to learn more.

What is Anxiety and Addiction as a Co-Occurring Disorder?

Anxiety and addiction are two complex conditions that can often co-occur, which means you can experience both simultaneously. When someone is diagnosed with both anxiety and addiction, it is referred to as a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder.

Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry, fear, or apprehension that is often persistent and can interfere with daily activities. If you’re suffering from anxiety disorders, you may use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with your symptoms. In some cases, substance use can temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms, making it difficult for you to stop using them. Common anxiety disorders include generalised anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.

Addiction, on the other hand, is a chronic and often relapsing brain disease characterised by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences. Drugs, including alcohol, can temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms, making it difficult for you to stop using them. However, substance use can also alter brain chemistry and increase the risk of developing anxiety disorders. Additionally, the stress and consequences associated with addiction can cause or worsen anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety and addiction can create a vicious cycle where anxiety symptoms lead to substance use, and substance use worsens anxiety symptoms. This cycle can make it challenging to treat either condition effectively.

Rehab for Substance Addiction and Anxiety Disorder

Worried about anxiety and drug or alcohol addiction? Call our residential treatment team today and start your path to recovery.

01721 546 263 Contact Us

What Are the Symptoms of Anxiety? 

Anxiety is a complex emotional and physiological response to a perceived threat or danger. Everyone experiences anxiety differently, but some common physical and emotional symptoms include:

• Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
• Sweating, shaking, or trembling
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Shortness of breath or tightness in the chest
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• Fatigue or weakness
• Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
• Irritability or agitation
• Excessive worry or fear

Anxiety can also manifest in the form of panic attacks, which involve sudden and intense feelings of fear or terror, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as chest pain, sweating, and trembling. It is important to note that anxiety can be a normal and adaptive response to stress. Still, if it becomes chronic or interferes with daily functioning, it may require professional treatment.

Signs of Anxiety Disorders and Their Link to Addiction 

Anxiety is one of the most globally pervasive associated mental health issues with addiction and can include more than generalised anxiety. Social anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder fall under the category of anxiety and can all be associated with addiction.

• Symptoms similar to body dysmorphia could include body checking, fact-checking, and skin checking for imperfections and issues. Obsession over these areas can lead to compulsive behaviours like picking until there is bleeding or damage.
• Excessive apologising and taking responsibility for problems or offences which are not personal.
• Dissociating during challenging moments or conversations or simply “tuning out” while around other people.
• Suddenly departing the premises and leaving without any explanation, typically with no return.
• Having snap reactions to people, places, and situations by making rude comments, lacking verbal control, and acting offensively.
• Shaking or jittery hands and limbs, which can include bouncing the knee or legs, constantly fidgeting or seeming to be restless.
• High occurrences of forgetfulness or losing track. Can include difficulty staying organized. Symptoms of attention deficit and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are common.
• Engaging with technological devices like a phone at inappropriate times to stay distracted.
• Obsessive thinking and ruminating thought patterns, when expressed, can seem overwhelming to others.
• “Jammed speech” patterns of hyper-talking.
• Sporadic episodes of extreme emotions and emotional displays such as becoming frantic, anxious, crying, screaming and having panic attacks.

Symptoms of anxiety are often overlooked because they are commonly confused with stress. Stress and anxiety are similar and often symptoms of one another, but are not the same issue. For full recovery from addiction, it is essential to assess and properly treat anxiety.

Dealing With Anxiety and Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol can impact anxiety disorders in several ways, both in the short term and the long term. While alcohol can provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms, it can also exacerbate anxiety in the long term and contribute to the development of anxiety disorders. This connection between alcohol use disorder and anxiety highlights the need for awareness and proper treatment.

In the short term, alcohol can act as a sedative, creating a temporary feeling of relaxation and euphoria. This relief from anxiety symptoms may make social situations more comfortable. However, as the effects of alcohol fade, anxiety symptoms often return, sometimes more intensely than before. For those facing alcohol addiction and anxiety disorders, this cycle can perpetuate co-occurring struggles that are difficult to manage.

Over time, regular or heavy alcohol use can alter brain chemistry, reducing mood-regulating neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These changes can intensify symptoms of anxiety and depression. Additionally, physical health problems caused by alcohol addiction, such as liver damage, often contribute to stress and anxiety. Daily functioning may also suffer, triggering further anxiety about work, school, or relationships.

It is crucial to understand that while alcohol might offer temporary relief, it is not a safe long-term solution for managing anxiety symptoms. Instead, treating anxiety disorders and alcohol use disorder requires a comprehensive approach, combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle changes. Seeking professional help is essential for anyone struggling with anxiety and alcohol use.

Living With Anxiety and Drug Addiction

Anxiety can cause feelings of fear and worry that can lead to self-doubt and self-criticism. If you’re suffering from anxiety, you may also have difficulty sleeping, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and make it challenging to function during the day. It’s often at this stage that people turn to drugs as a way to self-medicate and alleviate their anxiety symptoms. Those struggling with substance use disorder and anxiety may feel trapped in this cycle of using drugs to cope.

Drug addiction can worsen anxiety symptoms and create a cycle of dependence and withdrawal. People suffering from addiction often experience intense cravings for drugs, which can cause significant distress and anxiety. The fear of withdrawal symptoms can also lead to anxiety and contribute to a cycle of drug use. This is a common struggle for individuals facing drug addiction and anxiety disorders, as the two conditions are closely linked in many cases.

It is crucial to seek professional help for anxiety and drug addiction to manage the symptoms effectively. Treatment options may include therapy, medication-assisted treatment, support groups, and holistic approaches such as mindfulness and exercise. Recovery from anxiety and addiction is a gradual process, and it is essential to seek ongoing support and make lifestyle changes to maintain sobriety and manage anxiety symptoms effectively. Handling both substance use disorder and anxiety requires a dedicated, multifaceted approach to achieve long-term recovery and well-being.

Can You Get Addicted to Anxiety Medication?

Some anxiety medications may include ingredients with addictive properties, especially if taken outside of prescribed guidance. Even when a medication isn’t physically addictive, there’s still a risk of developing a psychological dependence. This can make it difficult to manage anxiety without the medication, potentially leading to overuse or reliance.

If you have concerns about dependence on anxiety medication, seeking professional guidance is strongly advised. Castle Craig provides specialist treatment for prescription medication addiction, alongside expertise in managing co-occurring anxiety and related mental health conditions. For further information about tailored treatment options, contact Castle Health on 01721 546 263.

Our Approach to Anxiety and Addiction Rehab

With over 35 years of experience, Castle Craig has supported thousands of individuals in overcoming the challenges of anxiety alongside drug and alcohol addiction. Recognised for expertise in dual diagnosis treatment, we are dedicated to compassionate, person-centred care. Our evidence-based approach prioritises respect, innovation, and excellence, ensuring tailored recovery plans that address both mental health and substance use effectively.

Call Now: 01721 546 263

Anxiety and Addiction Treatment 

The best treatment for anxiety and addiction involves an integrated and individualised approach that addresses both conditions simultaneously. Treatment options may include medication, therapy, support groups, and holistic approaches, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

Some of the most effective treatments for anxiety and addiction include:

Medication for Anxiety and Addiction

Medication: Medications can be used to manage anxiety symptoms and reduce drug cravings. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can often help manage anxiety symptoms, while medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Therapies for Anxiety and Addiction

Behavioural therapies: Therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), can help you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours that contribute to anxiety and addiction. Other forms of therapy, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), or acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), can also be effective.

Support groups: Support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide a sense of community and support for people in recovery. They can also offer a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and struggles with others who can relate.

Holistic approaches: Holistic approaches such as meditation, mindfulness, yoga, and exercise can help reduce anxiety symptoms and promote relaxation and well-being.

Inpatient Residential Rehab for Substance Addiction and Anxiety Disorders

Many inpatient rehab centres focus exclusively on either substance addiction or anxiety disorders. However, treating these conditions separately can sometimes overlook their interconnectedness. Specialisation in co-occurring conditions offers individuals a more effective path to recovery by addressing both aspects of their struggles simultaneously.

Castle Craig provides dual diagnosis treatment, combining expertise in caring for those with drug or alcohol addiction alongside anxiety and other mental health challenges. This integrated approach ensures that both addiction and underlying mental health issues are carefully managed for a more comprehensive recovery.

Anxiety-Related Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Castle Craig

At Castle Craig, we understand the complexities that come with treating a dual diagnosis such as anxiety and addiction. Your therapist or addiction specialist will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses both anxiety and addiction effectively. Treatment should be ongoing and may require adjustments over time as your needs may change. Recovery is a gradual process, and it is essential to seek ongoing support and make lifestyle changes to maintain sobriety and manage anxiety symptoms effectively.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or drug misuse, while also experiencing anxiety symptoms, we recommend specialised dual-diagnosis treatment. Contact us for more information on how to access our rehab programme, which addresses co-occurring illnesses like anxiety.

Get in Touch Today

To find out how we can help you, please telephone Castle Craig on our Helpline: 01721 546 263 or click here to arrange a free addiction assessment or here for more information.

You’re almost there.