Xanax is a common, brand-name prescription medication. It is classified as a benzodiazepine or benzo and is prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication. Xanax is powerful, which in turn makes it addictive when it is misused. Typically, a Xanax addiction builds over time. This can make it harder to recognize Xanax addiction signs as they may not be obvious immediately.
Find out more about Xanax addiction treatment in Laguna Beach by calling 877.279.1777. We are located just two blocks away from the Pacific Ocean. Our serene setting helps to create a calming environment for you or your loved one.
What Are the Signs of Xanax Addiction?
Anytime someone uses Xanax outside of prescription guidelines, they are said to be misusing a drug. Misuse does not guarantee that someone will develop an addiction, but it is a clear precursor. One of the other major red flags is when someone tries to get more than one Xanax prescription from different doctors. Referred to as doctor shopping, this practice allows people to take more than they need, which can quickly lead to an addiction.
In the case of Xanax, you may not notice either of those warning signs. Xanax use is easy to disguise. It’s just a small pill, and most people begin with a valid prescription. Still, there are things you can watch for to help determine if your loved one is struggling with Xanax addiction.
The signs of Xanax addiction break down into three categories: physical, psychological, and behavioral. The physical Xanax addiction signs include:
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Lack of coordination
The coordination, drowsiness, and slurred speech are the most noticeable of those signs. The others may fly under the radar more easily. It’s also important to look for sets of signs together. Just one on its own may not be an indication of Xanax addiction.
Psychological and Behavioral Xanax Addiction Signs
Next up are the psychological and behavioral Xanax addiction signs. Misusing and abusing Xanax modifies the brain’s neural pathways. This produces cognitive issues like a lack of concentration, inattentiveness, and poor problem-solving abilities. Other psychological signs related to Xanax addiction include irritability, extreme mood swings, memory loss, and suicidal ideation.
The last category of Xanax addiction signs is behavioral. The behavioral signs range from losing interest in beloved activities or hobbies to isolation from friends and family. The biggest thing to look for is significant changes in someone’s behavior.
How Is Xanax Addiction Treated?
The first step in Xanax addiction treatment is detox. This process is delicate because going off of Xanax can involve serious withdrawal symptoms. The most dangerous withdrawal symptom is seizures. Out of caution, addiction treatment providers like Oceanfront Recovery wean people off of Xanax rather than trying to have them quit cold turkey.
Once detox is complete, the rest of the treatment can begin. Typically, Xanax addiction treatment involves one or more types of therapy and support groups. It’s also essential to address any underlying issue someone originally took Xanax for. If that underlying issue is not addressed, a person will likely relapse.
People who get a prescription for Xanax tend to have anxiety issues. Abusing Xanax ultimately is not helping that anxiety problem, but it does mean there was a valid use for Xanax in the first place. In the absence of Xanax, a person must still treat their anxiety. That’s where dual diagnosis treatment comes in, which is the application of treatment methods for both a substance abuse disorder and a mental health disorder simultaneously.
Overcome Xanax Addiction With Oceanfront Recovery
Oceanfront Recovery is here to help you or someone you love beat a Xanax addiction—contact us at 877.279.1777 to learn more about Xanax addiction signs and how we treat addiction. Everyone deserves a chance to escape Xanax and enjoy a healthier and more fulfilling life. Let us help you find out just how rewarding that can be.
