Anxiety Disorder

Although everyone feels anxious or nervous some times, those with anxiety disorders have constant anxious, fearful feelings that disrupt their daily lives.  More than 19 million adults suffer from anxiety disorder in the United States.

The American Psychological Association lists the following symptoms for anxiety disorder:

• Endless checking or rechecking actions
• A constant and unrealistic worry about everyday occurrences and activities
• Fear and anxiety that appear for no apparent reason

Anxiety Disorder and Substance Abuse

For a person with an anxiety disorder, a co-occurring substance abuse problem can begin as a way to self-medicate.  Meaning, this individual will use alcohol or drugs to help calm their anxiety and worry.  Self-medication such as this, however, often simply exacerbates the anxiety disorder. Some studies indicate that for people with mental illness, such as anxiety disorder, are more sensitive to drugs and alcohol, and therefore more likely to become addicted. People having a mental health problem and a coexisting drug or alcohol problem are said to have a dual diagnosis.

As with any dual diagnosis, treatment at Lakeview Health Systems for a client's anxiety disorder will begin after the detox process.  A customized treatment plan will set goals for each client, and treatment for the client's anxiety disorder may come in many forms, such as psychotherapy, behavioral and cognitive therapies.

At Lakeview Health Systems, our nationally recognized rehabilitation programs can provide recovery help from substance abuse problems and address anxiety disorder, all in a state-of-the-art treatment facility. For more information on our programs, contact us at 1-800-657-4357. All calls are toll-free and confidential.