Originally posted on https://www.serenitylodgelakearrowhead.com/rehab-blog/coping-with-anxiety/

For many individuals, coping with anxiety involves self-medicating with drugs or alcohol. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people with anxiety disorders are twice as likely to also have a substance abuse issue.

Drinking or using to cope with physical and psychological symptoms of anxiety often backfires. Instead of finding relief, the person’s condition could intensify.

Without targeted intervention, the cycle of abuse continues. Although individuals may have intended to escape their anxiety disorder, they end up developing an addiction.

Helping a Loved One Coping with Anxiety and Addiction

Talking to a loved one about their co-occurring disorders can be challenging. Both topics are sensitive and deeply personal. Hoping friends or family members resolve their issues by seeking help may cause you to avoid the discussion. However, hearing your concern could be his motivation to seek treatment.

Still, be prepared for defensive behavior and denial. Many people become defensive when approached about their problem with substance abuse. Additionally, some people respond with paranoia or delusional beliefs. Communicating with them becomes difficult, and it may require a second relative or close friend to aid in the conversation.

Remember that your loved one’s anxiety disorder and substance abuse aren’t signs of moral weakness. Rather, both are chronic diseases that affect the brain. Nevertheless, therapeutic interventions in a supportive, safe environment can help men recover.

Comprehensive Recovery for Coping with Anxiety and Addiction

Living in constant worry and fear can feel debilitating. However, substance abuse only complicates this psychological condition. That’s why it takes comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment in order to overcome both conditions.

Help is Available for Coping with Anxiety and Addiction

Serenity Lodge offers addiction and anxiety treatment programs to help you or a loved one overcome the damaging effects of both. Nestled on 22 acres of land, our spiritually oriented rehab facility offers a chance to change until a new way of coping with anxiety becomes second nature.

During your stay at our place of serenity, you receive understanding support and a comfortable space to overcome anxiety and addiction. Along with addiction therapy, we offer amenities such as:

• Golf
• Massage therapy
• Nutrition therapy
• Pool and hot tub
• Racquetball

Pick up the phone and begin a new journey towards recovery. Call Serenity Lodge now at 866-379-4365 to learn more about our addiction treatment programs.