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Xanax use can quickly lead to addiction and may result in serious consequences, including severe withdrawal symptoms, overdose, and psychological or physical harm. Overcoming Xanax addiction may require professional intervention, including medications, therapies, and long-term support.
- Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine that is prescribed or illicitly obtained and can quickly lead to addiction and dependence.
- Overcoming Xanax addiction can require supported withdrawal, medications, and therapy.
- Xanax addiction recovery can be an ongoing process and may require long-term support, including professional interventions and support from family, friends, and recovery groups.
Understanding Xanax addiction recovery
Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders. It is the most widely prescribed and misused benzodiazepine. [1] Xanax has a high risk of addiction, whether it is used as prescribed or misused.
Recovering from Xanax addiction, or Xanax use disorder (XUD), is possible. However, it can be a long process and typically requires extensive professional support. [2] XUD can negatively impact several aspects of a person’s life. The goal of recovery is to improve these aspects, as well as to overcome the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. [3]
Getting help for Xanax use disorder
XUD can result in severe withdrawal symptoms and may be associated with polysubstance use. As such, it is advisable to utilize professional support to overcome Xanax addiction for the best recovery outcomes. [2]
Various options are available, and the most appropriate treatment may depend on the individual’s needs, the severity of their addiction, and their circumstances. Healthcare providers can offer advice about and a referral to appropriate services.
Treatment options
Available treatment options for Xanax addiction include: [1][2][4]
- Withdrawal: Xanax can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, particularly when abruptly stopping use. Because of this, it can be necessary for individuals to utilize detox and withdrawal services, which can provide support during gradual dose reductions or monitoring and treatment of psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms.
- Medications: Medications might be used to help reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms, such as carbamazepine, clonidine, or longer-acting benzodiazepines.Â
- Rehab: Rehabilitation services can be accessed through inpatient or outpatient treatment programs, which provide a range of interventions for recovery.
- Therapy: Psychological interventions, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in Xanax addiction recovery, as they can help individuals recognize and replace harmful addictive behaviors, learn positive coping strategies to manage emotional distress, and treat any underlying trauma or psychological issues that have contributed to drug use.
Achieving long-term recovery
Recovery can be a long process and may involve one or more relapses. For the best chance of long-term recovery, it can be necessary to utilize ongoing interventions. This can include continuing with therapy or medications that were implemented during treatment. [3][4]
It can also be beneficial to start new treatment approaches, such as engaging in couples or family therapy and attending support groups. People can develop relapse prevention plans and contingency plans, which can be acted upon should triggers or relapses occur. [5]
Some people can benefit from sober living accommodations, which provides a sober space for people to continue with their recovery process without the temptations and triggers of their usual home environment. Similarly, it can be helpful to make lifestyle changes, such as changing social circles, routines, and daily behaviors, and implementing healthy habits around diet and exercise. [5]
Support groups for Xanax addiction
Social support networks can be a key factor in successful Xanax addiction recovery. Support from friends and family can be beneficial in managing addictive behaviors and emotional distress. Support groups can also offer invaluable support during the recovery process and can be attended by the person with XUD or by their loved ones. [3]
For example, support groups for people with XUD include 12-step groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous, therapy-based support groups (such as SMART Recovery), and religion-based support groups (such as Celebrate Recovery). These groups can help people feel part of a supportive community that understands and motivates one another throughout recovery.Â
Support groups are also available for family and friends, such as Nar-Anon, SMART Recovery Family and Friends, and Families Anonymous.
Overcoming Xanax use relapse
Relapse is a common part of addiction recovery and may occur one or more times throughout the process. For people in Xanax addiction recovery, it is important to understand that relapse does not mean that they have failed, but it should be seen as an opportunity to learn and improve upon their recovery skills. [3][4]
Having a relapse prevention plan and a contingency plan in place can help overcome triggers and temptations or bounce back after a relapse. These plans can include strategies to manage emotional difficulties, who to contact in certain situations, and reminders or goals that motivate them to maintain or return to recovery. [5]
Starting the road to recovery
The first step to recovery is recognizing problematic Xanax use and accepting and admitting that it is necessary to make changes. Contacting a healthcare provider can help people learn more about the available options.
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