The signs of Xanax addiction can get muddled with the symptoms the medication is used to treat. Too much Xanax can actually increase anxiety, insomnia, and headaches thereby leading a person to take even more. Since it is a form of tranquilizer, the calm and relaxed feeling that washes over the body and mind can also be addictive leading to continued use, especially in social situations. While Xanax addiction is not typically fatal, it can be when combined with other drugs or alcohol, and it can have a detrimental effect on your quality of life. Learning to recognize the signs of Xanax addiction can help you to identify potential problems with your own use or that of someone else.
Health Side Effects of Xanax Addiction
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that affects the central nervous system. It helps the body to relax and reduce anxiety. Oftentimes doctors will prescribe it for those struggling with anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, muscle relaxation, or prior to certain medical procedures. It can be safe when used as directed under the supervision of a doctor, but there is still the potential for addiction. Some of the health side effects of Xanax addiction that can be red flags include:
Drowsiness
Confusion
Slurred Speech
Blurred Vision
Troubled Breathing
Weakness
If these symptoms do occur, it is essential to seek medical help. Going through a detox program can help to safely wean your body off of Xanax and resolve negative side effects. Aftercare is essential, as detox alone is not enough to fully overcome addiction.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
One reason that many people have difficulty overcoming addiction on their own is the withdrawal symptoms they experience. These effects can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, but it is necessary to detox the body before further healing can occur. Under the care of staff at a clinical detox facility, the symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can be monitored. Some of these symptoms include:
Anxiety
Depression
Nausea and vomiting
Insomnia
Mood swings
Convulsions or seizures
Headaches
Nightmares
Muscle pain
Concentration problems
While this sounds unpleasant, professional support from a facility like New Start Recovery can help one to more safely and comfortably manage withdrawal symptoms. Once the withdrawal symptoms have passed, it makes it easier to move forward with recovery.
How to Help with Xanax Addiction
One of the best ways you can help someone with Xanax addiction is by recognizing the symptoms and offering support. Do your research to learn more about this condition as well as treatment and recovery options. You may not understand firsthand what someone is going through, but you see how it affects you and others and will have more knowledge to relate to them.
Intervention for Xanax Addiction
If someone you love is battling Xanax addiction, make an effort to talk to them about it. Share your concerns and desire to help them change their life for the better. They may not be aware of the impact their addiction has on those around them. Avoid placing blame or threatening them; instead, reassure them that they have your support and you want to do what you can to get them help.
In some cases a professional intervention is needed, especially if the person is in denial that they have a problem. The goal of an intervention is to address the problem in a logical, strategic, and compassionate way and guide the person into treatment. When they accept the offer for treatment, they should immediately begin a detox program and then transition into an inpatient or outpatient rehab program. To learn more about the services and support available for detox, contact New Start Recovery.