According to the National Institute on Mental Health, more than 18 percent of adults experience some type of anxiety disorder. This makes it the most common mental health condition in the country. Unfortunately, in an attempt to deal with these many symptoms, many people with an anxiety disorder have a co-occurring substance use disorder. The National Institute on Drug Abuse states that if a person has anxiety, they are twice as likely to also have a substance use disorder. Knowing the symptoms of anxiety can help you understand more if you are concerned about a loved one. If you or a loved one is suffering from co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders, seek treatment from a dual diagnosis therapy treatment program in Florida.
Common Symptoms Of Anxiety
While there are different forms and conditions of anxiety, there are several symptoms that nearly everyone with the condition experiences. Some of the most common symptoms of anxiety include the following:
- A fear that is both intrusive and that occurs often over a period of at least six months
- This fear can be about a specific thing or it can be more generalized
- Repeated attempts at working through the fear are not successful
- A decline in satisfaction with life in general, or with relationships, their social circle, and job
- Noticeable lack of enthusiasm for hobbies that were once enjoyed
- Reduction in job performance
- Using addictive substances such as drugs, alcohol, and/or tobacco as a means of coping
- Increase in risky or harmful behaviors, such as overeating or gambling
In many cases, anxiety can also lead to physical symptoms as well. A person with anxiety might have a strong physical reaction to an object or situation that does not seem to be threatening or dangerous in itself or to other people. This can be difficult to understand for those close to the person who is experiencing anxiety. However, some physical symptoms of anxiety can feel life-threatening to the person experiencing them.
Rapid heartbeat, chest pain, choking sensations, dizziness, and shortness of breath can all cause a person to panic because they feel life-threatening when they are occurring. Other physical symptoms of anxiety include sweating, nausea, insomnia, stomach pain, and trembling.
Dual Diagnosis: Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Condition
Dual diagnosis is a term well-known in the medical community and to anyone who treats people with substance use disorders. Having a substance use disorder and a mental health condition occur at the same time is extremely common. Therefore, all high-quality addiction treatment centers screen for mental health issues during their client’s assessments.
When a person makes the brave decision to get professional help for their substance use disorder, they are asked if they are attempting to manage their anxiety symptoms on their own, and, if so, how they are doing it. In many cases, the person has used drugs and/or alcohol as a way to cope with their anxiety. In this fast-paced world, being able to keep up is just one factor that can lead to this type of self-medication.
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida is here to help you every step of the way. Whether you need help with both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition such as anxiety, or you are seeking assistance for a loved one, we are here to guide you to a bright future free from addiction and anxiety. Our treatment services include:
We encourage you to contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery FL today at 866.294.5306 to speak with a member of our compassionate and supportive staff. They can answer any questions you might have.
