People across the country take Xanax every day. The benzo helps reduce symptoms ranging from anxiety and stress to insomnia. Because Xanax is a prescription medication, people think it is less harmful than illicit drugs. Unfortunately, Xanax is a temporary solution not meant for frequent or long-term use. However, thanks to their calming effect and accessibility, benzos like Xanax are often abused and highly addictive. Xanax addiction treatment is the safest way to stop using Xanax and find alternative treatments and therapies.
If you or someone in your life is struggling with signs of Xanax abuse, know you are not alone. Treatment options are available. The team at A Better State is here to help with our holistic outpatient clinic. We provide clients across New England trauma-informed treatment for Xanax, other drugs, and mental health conditions. Call us at 781.412.1488 to learn more about treating the signs of Xanax addiction.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine prescribed for short-term or occasional relief of anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. Like other benzos, Xanax works by slowing down the brain’s processing speed with high levels of GABA and dopamine. GABA is a naturally occurring chemical the brain makes to promote relaxation and sleep. Benzos flood the brain with higher amounts of GABA than the human body can produce naturally.
They also flood the brain with dopamine, causing euphoria, joy, and pleasure. This causes a “dopamine reward” effect, making Xanax highly addictive. For those with mental health conditions, Xanax can be even more addictive for those living with unprocessed trauma and mental health conditions. When someone takes Xanax, their brain stops producing GABA and dopamine, leading to abuse, addiction, increased doses, and withdrawal.
5 Signs of Xanax Addiction
Xanax works by slowing the body’s processing speed. It can wreak havoc on the brain and nervous system. When someone takes a prescription drug other than prescribed, they are abusing their prescription. Signs of Xanax abuse include:
- Slow understanding and processing speed
- Difficulty following conversations
- Short-term memory loss
- Craving Xanax
- Mixing Xanax with other drugs
Abusing Xanax is common. When the brain and body become dependent on benzos, someone may experience intense cravings and irrational thoughts and believe they will die without more Xanax. This is a natural reaction to chemical dependence. This can also lead to mood swings, changes in mental health, and trouble asking for help. Xanax can be incredibly difficult to stop taking with medical and psychological help. If someone stops taking Xanax cold turkey, they will experience a “rebound” effect. This means their initial symptoms will return and worsen. It may lead to other drug-seeking behavior, self-harm, or overdose.
Start Xanax Addiction Treatment in New Hampshire
Xanax’s side effects can be dangerous. Long-term use can cause brain damage. If you or someone you love struggles with signs of Xanax abuse, our team is here to help. At A Better State, we believe in a different approach to addiction treatment. By uncovering and treating the root cause of addiction, our clients thrive.
Our holistic outpatient cocaine addiction treatment program includes:
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Family therapy
- Art therapy
- Yoga therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Mindfulness meditation therapy
With mental health programs for anxiety, depression, and PTSD, our dual diagnosis clinic focuses on the whole client, not just their addiction. Our comprehensive outpatient programs provide daytime and evening PHP and IOP options to help you and your loved ones recover without compromising your schedule.
Learn More About Xanax Abuse Symptoms at A Better State
Find an alternative to Xanax and start feeling better today. Contact us now at 781.412.1488 to learn more about our Xanax addiction treatment program.
