Types of Addiction
Xanax Addiction Treatment
Xanax Addiction Treatment
If you are struggling with Xanax addiction or other prescription drug dependencies, GateHouse Treatment has all the tools and resources needed for a long-lasting recovery. We help to promote personal responsibility and accountability and are thoroughly invested in the recovery process of every client who walks through our doors. Don’t hesitate to get the help you need. Let GateHouse support you in your recovery from Xanax addiction by giving us a call.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Xanax addiction involves the mental disease of addiction and therefore requires comprehensive therapy to help the client battle the mental cravings. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to be effective in helping clients with this addiction.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a therapy modality used by several licensed clinicians to help with the therapy process in clients suffering from addiction. The main idea in CBT is that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are connected in a way that all influence one another. In turn, by modifying one such as feelings, you can then change your behaviors and thoughts that could be affecting you adversely.
If you or a loved one is suffering from Xanax addiction, reach out today, and find out how GateHouse can help.
What is Xanax Addiction?
Xanax is classified in the sedative and Anxiolytic class of drugs called Benzodiazepine, with the generic name ‘Alprazolam.’ A psychiatrist typically prescribes Xanax to treat unbalanced chemicals in the brain to help ease or avoid anxiety symptoms or panic attacks. While it can have medical benefits, its effects and chemical properties make it easily addictive, making the potential for abuse very high.
Xanax History
Alprazolam (Xanax pills) hit the U.S. markets in 1981. Different from previous benzodiazepines, it has an immediate onset of action and allows the body to eliminate chemicals faster than other existing benzodiazepines.
The U.S. FDA approved alprazolam on October 16th, 1981, when it became a Schedule IV drug of the Controlled Substance Act the following month. By the 1990s, Xanax pills were among the most commonly prescribed drugs for anxiety disorder and panic attacks.
Common Street Names for Xanax Pills:
- Benzos
- Xannies
- Handlebars
- School buses
- Bars
- Blue footballs
- Zannies
Physiology and Side Effects of Xanax Pills
Xanax processes through the central nervous system (CNS) and the brain. Xanax pills bind y-aminobutyric acid A (GABA) receptors in the brain and boost these chemicals, slowing down nerve cell activity in the brain.
In smaller doses, Xanax pills can work to reduce emotions of anxiety and panic attacks, but in larger doses can produce a euphoric effect with severe addictive properties.
Taking Xanax can have many side effects, and the user can build a tolerance to the effect the longer the medication is used. Side effects can include:
- Memory problems
- Slurred speech
- Seizures
- Muscle Movements
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Blurred Vision
- Increased appetite
- Weight Gain
Understanding Xanax Pills Addiction
When administered orally, Xanax pills give the user a relaxing euphoria which calms them. Over time, when repeatedly used, the drug prevents the brain from naturally providing chemicals that recognize pleasure, causing the user only to feel pleasure when using Xanax. Xanax abuse happens when individuals take more than prescribed or use without a prescription. If the addiction becomes severe, Xanax detox may be necessary for recovery.
If you require treatment for Xanax addiction, don’t wait – contact GateHouse Treatment today to learn how we can help.
Xanax Quick Facts
- There are 50 MM written prescriptions for benzodiazepines every year
- Prescription rates for Xanax are up 9% every year
- 7 out of 10 people who are addicted to Xanax, first find them in their homes
- 33% of long-term Xanax users report an increase in depression symptoms
- 125,000 annual ER visits due to Xanax abuse
- 61,000 people seek help for Xanax abuse yearly
- Xanax stays in the body for 12-15 hours
- Addictions can involve 20-30 pills taken daily
Signs of Xanax Abuse
While people can exhibit different signs & symptoms when abusing Xanax pills, some common symptoms include:
MOOD
Anxiety, mood swings, agitation, mania, restlessness, depression, rage
BEHAVIORAL
Stealing, confusion, memory problems, disorientation, forging prescriptions, changes in appetite, violence, decreased inhibitions, slurred speech, risky behaviors
PHYSICAL
Dry mouth, coordination problems, constipation/diarrhea, fluctuations in weight, sweating, stuffy nose, drowsiness, swelling in hands and feet, tremors, seizures, hallucinations
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Xanax addiction involves the mental disease of addiction and therefore requires comprehensive therapy to help the client battle the mental cravings. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to be effective in helping clients with this addiction.
