Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine medication. It is often prescribed for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety. In this way, it works well to help people control the symptoms of these conditions. However, it is also a very addictive drug. For those who are using it outside of a prescription, it may be necessary to consider Xanax drug rehab, a program that can enable a person to stop using this drug safely. Knowing when that type of treatment is necessary can sometimes be very challenging.
When Does a Xanax Addiction Start?
Recognizing the signs of a Xanax addiction is not straightforward because many people who use this drug often find themselves needing it to function normally. However, there are a few key things to consider.
First, determine if it is being used properly. To effectively control anxiety and insomnia, a person has to follow the prescription guidelines the doctor sets. These rules help to ensure that effective dosing of the medication is provided but that there is not enough present to cause Xanax addiction to form. If a person uses this drug outside of the prescription rules, that’s a key indication that addiction has developed or may soon.
Other signs of an addiction to Xanax may include:
- An inability to stop using the medication without feeling intense cravings
- Needing to use more than prescribed or wanting to use the drug more frequently
- Thinking about or desiring the drug often, even when a dose has already been consumed
- Engaging in reckless behavior while using the drug
- Combining Xanax with other drugs, prescription medications, or alcohol
Another key to look for is withdrawal symptoms. These do not happen when a person is using the prescription as directed by their doctor. However, in those with an addiction, it is common to see signs such as anxiety, intense mood swings, and physical pain such as muscle and bone pain. In addition to this, some may have trouble with concentration. They may be irritable.
How to Get Help for Addiction
For those who believe prescription drug addiction occurs, there are several steps to ensure treatment is applied correctly. The first step is to turn to a doctor to determine if it is safe to stop taking the Xanax. Some people may need a detox center or step-downed drug use to ensure no adverse side effects occur. It is not safe to simply just stop without doctor guidance.
From there, a drug addiction treatment program is necessary. It will help control dependence and use and explore the reasons a person is struggling with anxiety and how to better cope with it. It will provide an opportunity to understand the addiction itself. Some of the benefits of enrolling in an addiction treatment program include:
- Minimizing any type of withdrawal or craving that is occurring
- Getting help for the underlying cause of anxiety
- Treating a person’s physical needs at the same time as emotional needs
- Developing strategies to combat stress and challenges in daily life
- Developing an understanding of triggers and how to manage them
Xanax treatment is very effective. For those unsure, if they need it, work with a therapist to get a full assessment.
Find Help Addressing Your Needs
Xanax is a drug you may need. Do not just stop taking it, but recognize the risks of continuing to do so. There are other methods to treat your use of this drug. If you believe you are at risk for addiction or know you are already struggling with it, reach out for help. Treatment programs effectively help people build a healthy future for themselves that doesn’t rely on this drug’s use. Call a treatment program today.
