Anxiety medications like Xanax and Valium are well-known as powerful, effective options for individuals struggling with racing thoughts, panic, and other symptoms. However, these benzodiazepines (benzos) are highly addictive. Finding a non-addictive anxiety medication can help you avoid the harmful effects of addiction or, if you live with a substance use disorder, might be prescribed during dual diagnosis treatment.
Red Oak Recvoery offers medication management for young men in North Carolina. Prescription medications are helpful tools in managing mental health conditions like anxiety. With expertise in both substance use and mental health, we know how important it is to find the right balance of medication and therapy in treating anxiety. Call 828.382.9699 to get help today.
Understanding Anxiety and Its Impact
Anxiety is more than just feeling stressed or worried; it’s a pervasive condition that can significantly affect one’s quality of life. For those in recovery, managing anxiety is crucial, as untreated anxiety can complicate the recovery process and potentially lead to relapse. Anxiety can have many triggers—and can be a trigger itself—like boredom, financial stress, social situations, or feeling overwhelmed.
Individuals living with anxiety often deal with cycles of symptoms like:
- Racing thoughts
- Physical tension and restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating or relaxing
- Irritability or agitation
- Nausea or stomach pain
Anxiety can be debilitating for those who experience it regularly. For some, medication may be an essential part of their treatment plan in managing these symptoms.
The Risks of Addictive Medications
Traditional anxiety treatments often rely on medications that, while effective, carry a risk of addiction. For someone recovering from substance abuse, these risks are magnified. That’s why exploring non-addictive, non-narcotic, and non-habit-forming options is essential.
Addictive medications like benzos also bring dangerous withdrawal symptoms if you need to stop taking them. Delirium tremens (DTs) are more common with benzo and alcohol withdrawal than other substances. DTs can cause seizures, hallucinations, and other life-threatening symptoms.
Types of Non-Addictive Anxiety Medications
Several types of non-addictive medications can help manage anxiety without the risks associated with narcotics. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are among the most commonly prescribed, offering relief without the potential for addiction.
SSRIs and SNRIs include:
- Prozac (fluoxetine)
- Paxil (paroxetine)
- Zoloft (sertraline)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine)
These medications work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. They are generally safe for long-term use and have minimal side effects compared to benzos.
Therapy Is Also Important
While medication can be an effective tool in managing anxiety, it is essential to combine it with therapy for a more comprehensive treatment plan. Therapy can help individuals better understand the root causes of their anxiety and learn coping mechanisms and strategies for managing symptoms without relying solely on medication.
At Red Oak Recovery®, we offer a holistic approach to treating anxiety, combining evidence-based therapies with medication management to help our clients achieve lasting recovery. Our team of experts understands the unique challenges and triggers that young men living with anxiety, dual diagnosis conditions, and substance abuse face. We are committed to providing personalized care and support to help individuals achieve optimal mental health and well-being.
Reach Out to Red Oak for Anxiety Treatment
If you or a young man in your life is struggling with anxiety and/or substance abuse, don’t hesitate to reach out to Red Oak Recovery® for help. Our team of experienced professionals can provide a thorough assessment and create a personalized treatment plan that addresses all aspects of mental health. Contact us online today or at 828.382.9699 to find effective treatment at our center in the North Carolina mountains.
