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Patients given an anxiety disorder and alcohol dual diagnosis have a substance abuse problem linked to underlying mental health issues. People suffering from anxiety often use alcohol as a coping mechanism. However, excessive drinking can heighten their symptoms during sober periods. This creates a vicious cycle in which alcohol is both the problem and the perceived solution. Effective therapies must simultaneously address both the anxiety disorder and the addiction.

Social Phobia

Social phobia is one of the anxiety-related conditions most frequently linked to alcohol abuse. Also known as social anxiety disorder, it is an extreme fear of being embarrassed, negatively judged or humiliated in social situations. Sufferers may go out of their way to avoid contact with the general public. Social anxiety manifests in physical symptoms such as nausea, blushing, stammering, shaking, sweating and a rapid heartbeat.

Panic Disorder

Panic disorder is another anxiety problem commonly diagnosed in alcoholics. People with this condition are subject to sudden episodes of intense anxiety that can mimic a nervous breakdown or cardiac arrest. During a panic attack, individuals may experience chest pains, heart palpitations, rapid breathing, trembling and dizziness. They often feel as though they are about to pass out and may fear they are going to die.

PTSD

Alcohol abuse is also frequently seen in association with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People may develop PTSD after experiencing a horrific event such as rape or series of traumatic episodes such as continuous combat in war. Symptoms of PTSD include agitation, sleeping problems, nightmares and flashbacks. Sufferers are constantly vigilant and over-sensitive to perceived threats. They find it difficult to handle the stress of the workplace or public situations.

Reasons For Abuse

Individuals with anxiety disorders often use alcohol to calm fears, reduce stress levels, numb emotional pain or relax social inhibitions. Treatments for alcohol addiction often fail because alcoholics routinely drink in order to cope with their anxiety. One study following patients in alcohol dependence programs found that those diagnosed with anxiety disorders had the greatest risk of a relapse within four months.

Therapy

Many alcohol inpatient rehabilitation centers now have programs specifically developed for anxiety disorder and alcoholism dual diagnosis patients. Treatment at inpatient facilities normally begins with detoxification. Once this process is completed, healthcare workers are better able to distinguish between the symptoms of an anxiety disorder and those brought on by alcohol abuse. A range of treatment options can then be used to reduce the patient’s anxiety and overcome their addiction.

12-Step Program

Alcohol misuse is typically addressed using twelve-step methods along with peer counseling and support. Symptoms of anxiety may be treated with prescription medications to eliminate the need for self-medication with alcohol. Psychotherapy may be used to help patients with underlying emotional conflicts. Patients are frequently offered cognitive-behavioral therapy to teach them practical ways to reduce their social anxiety and prevent panic attacks.

If you are concerned about your drinking and know it is causing problems in your life, it may be time to think about staying at a residential alcohol rehabilitation program. This is an excellent place for you to get the help you need to stop drinking. These centers are comfortable, welcoming and you will feel safe and well looked after.

The Staff

The staff is trained specially to help people with drink problems. They are sympathetic and always available to assist with any difficulties in settling in. You and your family will find lots of support and encouragement.

The Location

The locations of rehab clinics are specially chosen for their excellent environments. Most are situated in beautiful, natural surroundings to help you feel calm and relaxed. You will discover what it is that leads you to drink and how you can stop.

The Activities

There is plenty to do at rehab clinics apart from the therapies offered. For example, you may want to go swimming or visit the gym as a healthy body helps to encourage a healthy mind. You may decide to explore the surrounding countryside. These activities also form part of your recovery. You can make friends with other patients and this in turn will boost your confidence without relying on alcohol.

The Advantages

Medical staff and doctors are also available and you may be prescribed medication to help you deal with withdrawal symptoms. The food served is nutritious and healthy as most rehab clinics have a nutritionist. The rooms are comfortable and you will not lack any of the home comforts you enjoyed previously. All your needs, physical and spiritual, will be addressed to make your stay as pleasant as possible. You also have a choice of mixed or same sex clinics. The only thing that you cannot do is bring alcohol onto the premises.

The Treatment

Other treatment options available are therapy based. There are counselors who specialize in helping people with alcohol problems and you may be told of different approaches such as the 12-step recovery program. You can also discuss your problems with drinking in a group setting if you wish to do so and will receive advice and motivation from other patients as you share your ideas for dealing with your problems. This will give you different perspectives on other people’s problems with drinking.

The Holistic Path

Other therapeutic treatments offered at halfway houses are holistically based. This includes services like acupuncture and massage. Alternative therapies include hypnotherapy so you learn to take control of your cravings. Activities such as yoga are also recommended to help combat stress.