Xanax Addiction Symptoms and Warning Signs
Helping a loved one struggling with Xanax addiction get the help they need may be one of the most trying things a person (or family) may ever have to go through. However, with the right support, such an act also has the potential to be one of the most important and rewarding efforts that one will ever make. Yet, before encouraging a recovery journey, it is essential to know what warning signs to look out for. This includes being able to recognize the signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction.
Better Understanding Xanax Misuse and Xanax Addiction
Xanax addiction is on the rise in the United States. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), “Drug overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines [including Xanax] steadily increased from 1,135 in 1999 to 11,537 in 2017 and declined to 9,711 in 2019. Between 2019 and 2021, deaths rose again to 12,499.”
Xanax is the brand name of the benzodiazepine alprazolam. While this substance can be safely used as a treatment for those individuals who are struggling with anxiety and panic disorders, it can also be heavily misused and lead to addiction.
Xanax is also heavily misused by younger populations, with many people using it in combination with other substances, like opioids, to feel “greater” effects. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), “Abuse is frequently associated with adolescents and young adults who take the drug orally or crush it up and snort it to get high. Abuse is particularly high among heroin and cocaine users. Additionally, opioid users often co-abuse benzodiazepines to enhance euphoria.”
The Warning Signs of Xanax Addiction
There are many warning signs that someone may be struggling with Xanax addiction. These signs may be emotional, physical, and social. The following are just a few of those Xanax addiction signs:
- “Doctor shopping” and trying to get Xanax from illegal sources (especially online)
- Running out of a prescription early
- Losing interest in hygiene and physical appearance
- Craving Xanax when it is not available
- Becoming depressed and anxious without Xanax
- Isolating away from family and friends
- Becoming aggressive and exhibiting mood swings
- Unexplained financial difficulties
- Having trouble with relationships
- Struggling at school or work
The Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
There are many symptoms that an individual will start to experience as they become addicted to Xanax. Many of these Xanax symptoms are observable and can be signifiers that a loved one needs help. The following are just a few Xanax addiction symptoms:
- Sleeping too much or sleeping too little (insomnia)
- Exhibiting anhedonia (feeling no pleasure in things)
- Extreme and sudden weight loss
- Having trouble thinking clearly
- Headaches and body aches
- Having slurred speech
- A lowered libido
- Feeling nauseous
- Having trouble regulating emotions
- Trouble with coordination
If any, many, or all of the previously mentioned signs or symptoms are present, it is highly recommended that professional help be sought as soon as possible. Doing so may help a loved one avoid the long-term symptoms and consequences of Xanax addiction.
The Long-Term Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
Untreated Xanax abuse is almost certain to get worse without some type of healthy intervention. This is because Xanax addiction, like any other addiction, is a chronic disease, and chronic disease always gets progressively worse. Similarly, addiction is no different than other chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. If left untreated, the following are some of the long-term symptoms of Xanax addiction:
- Short-term and long-term memory loss
- Skin rashes and irritations
- Anxiety and depression with or without Xanax
- Gastrointestinal problems (especially constipation)
- Experiencing hallucinations and delusions
- Feelings of self-harm and/or suicide
- Seizures
- Overdose
The most serious consequence of long-term Xanax addiction is not just overdose, but also overdose death. This is why seeking professional help is so important at any stage of Xanax addiction. It is never too late to get help.
Recovering From Xanax Addiction With The Phoenix Recovery Center
Xanax addiction can rob individuals of their livelihoods and the families of their loved ones. However, it doesn’t have to be that way. There is a solution, and the first step of that solution is to reach out and ask for help.
Here at The Phoenix Recovery Center, we believe that “one-size-fits-all” “cookie-cutter” recovery rarely works. That is why we only focus on individualized and integrated recovery plans that utilize treatments from all different areas. These include psychotherapeutic modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), experiential therapies like nature immersion and art therapy, and holistic wellness methods like yoga and meditation.
We see people before we see their diagnosis. Similarly, we also see our clients through the entire process of recovery, including post-recovery and alumni services. This is because recovery is about the journey, never the destination, and there’s no better place to start that journey than right here at The Phoenix Recovery Center.
Xanax misuse and Xanax addiction are a prevalent problem in the U.S. Many people may start out using Xanax responsibly with a prescription and soon discover that they are addicted to it. Additionally, many people may choose to use Xanax recreationally and end up addicted to the substance. Furthermore, Xanax can be particularly harmful because it can be extremely difficult to detox from. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the road to recovery. For more information about recognizing the signs and symptoms of Xanax misuse and Xanax addiction, contact The Phoenix Recovery Center at (801) 438-3185.
