Xanax is a common prescription drug. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, stress, or insomnia, Xanax is a likely, temporary solution. People around the United States take Xanax every day for these and other symptoms. Unfortunately, thanks to their calming effect and accessibility, people often abuse benzos such as Xanax. Like other benzos, Xanax is highly addictive. The best way to overcome benzo abuse is through Xanax addiction treatment. Programs can help people uncover the root cause of Xanax abuse, find healthy coping mechanisms, and other forms of treatment.
If you or someone in your life is struggling with Xanax or prescription drug abuse, the team at Ashwood Recovery can help. Our outpatient programs provide comprehensive Xanax addiction treatment in Idaho. Call us now to learn about our personalized detox programs at 888.341.3607.
What Is Xanax?
A popular benzo, Xanax, is prescribed for short-term relief of anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. Doctors across the country prescribe benzos to patients every day. Like other benzos, Xanax works by slowing down the brain’s processing speed, increasing gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) and dopamine levels.
GABA is a naturally occurring chemical the brain makes to promote sleep and relaxation. Benzos flood the brain with higher amounts of GABA than the human body can produce naturally. They also release a rush of dopamine, which causes euphoria, joy, and pleasure. This dopamine reward makes Xanax highly addictive. When someone takes Xanax, the brain stops making GABA and dopamine, leading to addiction and withdrawal.
Understanding Xanax Abuse and Addiction
When the brain and body become dependent on Xanax or other prescription drugs for chemicals like dopamine, a person experiences withdrawal and cravings when the drug leaves their system. They may experience intense cravings, irrational thoughts and believe they will die without more Xanax, which is a natural reaction to chemical dependence. Dependence also makes it incredibly difficult to stop taking Xanax without help.
An individualized detox program can reduce cravings and slowly ween the brain and body off prescription drugs. If someone stops taking Xanax cold turkey, they can experience a rebound effect. Their initial symptoms of anxiety or insomnia will return and worsen. Rebounding may lead to other drug-seeking behavior, self-harm, or overdose.
Signs of Xanax Abuse and Addiction
While slowing the body’s processing speed, Xanax can wreak havoc on the brain and nervous system. Signs of Xanax abuse include:
- You’re slow to understand, process, and respond.
- You have difficulty following conversations.
- Short-term memory loss.
- Taking more Xanax than prescribed.
- Loss of language skills and reading comprehension.
- Craving Xanax.
- Intense mood swings.
Over time, Xanax can change how the brain perceives objects in space, making it hard for people to understand the world around them. This distortion can be detrimental to home, work, and school life.
Xanax Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in Idaho
Whether someone takes Xanax as prescribed or begins abusing their prescription, the drug is addictive. Because Xanax has such a profound effect on the brain, it’s safest to detox and recover with professional support. If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug abuse, the team at Ashwood Recovery can help. Our outpatient recovery programs offer individualized detox plans, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Art therapy
- Dual diagnosis
- Medical intervention
- Relapse prevention
- Group and family therapy
Whether you’re transitioning from residential care or need the flexibility of outpatient recovery, Ashwood Recovery is here to help you and your loved ones recover.
Begin Your Prescription Drug Addiction Recovery at Ashwood Recovery Today
Xanax addiction is common. Don’t let this drug or other benzos keep you from life. Call us now at 888.341.3607 to learn more about our flexible outpatient programs.