It can be difficult to come to terms with the fact that a loved one may be struggling with substance use disorder (SUD) or different forms of substance misuse. This is why many friends and family members choose to ignore the warning signs of misuse or addiction in a loved one. However, pointing out warning signs is essential because the sooner these signs are acknowledged, the sooner a loved one can get the help they need. Part of advocating for recovery includes being able to spot the signs that indicate that someone is on Xanax.
Better Understanding Xanax
Xanax is the brand name for the benzodiazepine alprazolam. According to the Journal of Addiction Medicine, “Alprazolam is one of the most widely prescribed benzodiazepines for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Its clinical use has been a point of contention as most addiction specialists consider it to be highly addictive, given its unique psychodynamic properties which limit its clinical usefulness, whereas many primary care physicians continue to prescribe it for longer periods than recommended.”
The issue is that when this medication is overprescribed, it can lead to serious addiction. However, people prescribed Xanax are not the only people effected. Many people who don’t have a prescription also misuse Xanax. Xanax is not just addictive but can be extremely dangerous and even deadly (especially when consumed alongside alcohol and other substances).
Indicators that Someone Is on Xanax
Being able to tell if someone is high on Xanax is the first step toward getting them the help they need. The following are just a few of the signs that a loved one may be on Xanax:
- Appearing jittery, sweaty, and shaky
- Exhibiting aggressive behaviors
- Showing risky behaviors
- Often appearing lethargic and drowsy
- Complains of regular and painful constipation
- Has unexplained skin rashes
- Exhibits regular mood swings
- Loses interest in hobbies and activities once enjoyed
- Expresses being anxious and/or depressed
- Has sudden financial struggles without other explanation
Another telltale sign that someone is on Xanax is that they have trouble communicating and putting together concise thoughts. This includes struggles with both short-term and long-term memory loss. If any of these signs are present, there is a potential that a loved one is on Xanax and needs some professional help as soon as possible.
The Dangers of Being on Xanax
Perhaps the biggest danger of misusing Xanax is that it can lead to addiction. Xanax addiction can be very difficult to break, as Xanax withdrawal and detox can be both daunting and difficult.
Detoxing from Xanax can cause significant discomfort. According to Addiction, “Physiological dependence on benzodiazepines is accompanied by a withdrawal syndrome which is typically characterized by sleep disturbance, irritability, increased tension and anxiety, panic attacks, hand tremor, sweating, difficulty in concentration, dry retching, and nausea, some weight loss, palpitations, headache, muscular pain and stiffness and a host of perceptual changes. Instances are also reported within the high-dosage category of more serious developments such as seizures and psychotic reactions.”
While the symptoms of Xanax detox may be uncomfortable, they can be short-lived and beat the alternative – overdose and overdose death. These symptoms can also be significantly reduced when professionals in a safe and secure setting oversee the detox process.
How to Heal From Xanax Addiction
Helping a loved one heal from Xanax addiction starts with recognizing that they are on Xanax, but it should not stop there. Many effective treatment programs can help a loved one recover from their Xanax addiction.
Depending on the severity of the Xanax addiction, an individual may choose between a residential program, a partial hospitalization program (PHP), or an intensive outpatient program (IOP). These various options can help an individual acquire the tools and skills they will need to not only establish sobriety but also to achieve recovery in the long term.
Healing from Xanax addiction also requires establishing a connection with one’s community, which is why it can be essential to join a recovery community. Many people choose 12-Step recovery because it offers this sense of community and allows them to help other people who are going through the same struggles.
The Phoenix Difference at The Phoenix Recovery Center
At The Phoenix Recovery Center, our goal is to empower individuals and their families who have addiction and mental health disorders to celebrate life through lasting solutions. We do this by ensuring that each of our clients has recovery plans that are both comprehensive and individualized.
Xanax addiction can rob individuals and their families of a chance at the happy, healthy life they both deserve and desire – but it doesn’t have to. There is a solution. We can help make recovery a reality.
There are many telling signs that someone is misusing Xanax (and is potentially addicted). If it is discovered that someone is misusing or addicted to Xanax, it is important to get them professional help as soon as possible. The good news is that there are many effective tools and treatments to help someone detox and recover from Xanax addiction. If you feel like you or a loved one are struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders, we can help get you on the right road to recovery right away. For more information on how to tell if a loved one is high on Xanax, please reach out to The Phoenix Recovery Center today at (801) 438-3185.
