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Breaking the Cycle of Anxiety and Substance Use
Anxiety and addiction frequently converge, creating a cycle where each condition worsens the other. Our integrated treatment breaks this cycle for lasting recovery.
adults in the U.S. experience an anxiety disorder each year
of those with anxiety also have a substance use disorder
more likely to develop addiction if you have anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes chronic or overwhelming, it can significantly impact quality of life. Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions, affecting millions of Americans each year.
The relationship between anxiety and addiction is bidirectional—anxiety can lead to substance use as a form of self-medication, while substance use can worsen anxiety symptoms over time. This creates a harmful cycle that requires integrated treatment to break.
At Surf City Detox, our dual diagnosis program addresses both anxiety and addiction simultaneously. We understand that treating one without the other often leads to relapse, which is why our comprehensive approach is designed for lasting recovery.
Recognizing when anxiety and addiction are occurring together is the first step toward healing.
Understanding why these conditions so often occur together helps guide effective treatment.
Self-medication: Using substances to temporarily relieve anxiety symptoms
Withdrawal effects: Alcohol and drug withdrawal often increases anxiety
Shared brain chemistry: Both conditions involve similar neurotransmitter systems
Avoidance behaviors: Both anxiety and addiction involve avoiding uncomfortable feelings
Trauma: Past trauma can contribute to both anxiety and substance use
Our evidence-based approach addresses anxiety and addiction together for the best outcomes.
Safe, medically supervised withdrawal that manages anxiety symptoms throughout detox.
Learning to identify and change thought patterns that fuel both anxiety and addiction.
Gradually facing anxiety triggers without using substances to cope.
Learning healthy ways to manage stress, including breathing exercises and meditation.
When appropriate, non-addictive medications to manage anxiety during recovery.
You don't have to choose between managing anxiety and achieving sobriety. Our dual diagnosis program helps you heal from both.
Confidential. Compassionate. Available when you need us.