A substance abuse disorder is a difficult cross to bear for anyone, but the weight can become even more pressing when combined with another mental illness. Many people who struggle with addiction also suffer from a co-occurring disorder, and these two factors often exacerbate each other. Because of this, it’s important to seek treatment for both, not just one or the other. Trying to get clean without addressing an underlying anxiety disorder might prove to be near-impossible. Still, a good dual diagnosis treatment plan will address both the addiction and the anxiety. If you’re looking for dual diagnosis treatment in Laguna Beach, CA, look no further than Oceanfront Recovery.
Our beautiful facility is conveniently located near the beach and is equipped with modern technology and simple comforts to make you feel at home. Our exemplary staff is dedicated to working with you on your journey to recovery and getting you back home to the things that matter. Dual diagnosis treatment is vital to recovery from substance abuse when a co-occurring disorder occurs. We have the resources to provide that invaluable care to you or your loved one. For more information about how we can help, contact us today by calling 877.296.7477.
Anxiety and Addiction
Anxiety and addiction impact each other in many different ways, and some people find it hard to recognize signs of an anxiety disorder in themselves. If you’re dealing with substance abuse, too, you may write some things off as part of your addiction, but this isn’t always the case. It may be that anxiety influences the development of an addiction. Many substances can offer a respite from anxiety symptoms, but with proper treatment available, dangerous self-medication isn’t the right solution.
The first step to determining whether the anxiety affects your substance abuse disorder is to see if you recognize anxiety within yourself. Here are some common signs that may point to a treatable anxiety disorder:
- Nervousness or restlessness that doesn’t go away, or that doesn’t seem to have a particular cause
- Trouble sleeping at night, or having trouble staying asleep
- “Overthinking” situations and obsessing over things that could go wrong
- Panic attacks that may include a racing heart, shortness of breath, and shakiness or trembling
- Constant worry to the point that it interferes with your work, school, relationships, or other aspects of your life.
How Co-Occurring Disorders Work
Someone who has a substance abuse disorder and another mental health disorder has co-occurring disorders or a dual diagnosis. This can make both disorders more difficult to diagnose. Symptoms of one mental illness can be attributed to substance abuse or vice versa, and these symptoms can impact each other in different ways.
If you feel that your symptoms of mental illness only get worse when receiving treatment, it may be a sign that you’re only receiving part of the treatment you need. Co-occurring disorders must be treated alongside one another in a dual diagnosis setting. Otherwise, work toward sobriety can be interrupted or sabotaged by symptoms of the other disorder.
Seek Help with Oceanfront Recovery
Oceanfront Recovery’s Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center offers the best possible care for those with co-occurring disorders. Here, you can receive individualized treatment that takes everything into account, not just your addiction. With a pristine location, highly-trained staff, and a myriad of amenities and resources, Oceanfront is the best choice for recovery for you or your loved one. If you believe that anxiety symptoms or another mental health disorder are making your recovery from substance abuse more difficult, know that you’re not alone. Reach out today by visiting us online or by calling 877.296.7477.
