How to Overcome Xanax Cravings
Prescription drugs, such as the anti-anxiety agent Xanax, have surpassed illicit drugs as the number one abused substance in America. According to a recent study conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHA) 4.7 million Americans abuse pain medication annually. This alarming trend is proof that misusing prescription drugs like Xanax is connected to a high risk of addiction.
How Does Xanax Work?
Xanax works by triggering a chemical found within the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA.) GABA produces a calming effect by slowing down or stopping certain nerve receptors from traveling to the brain. This chemical reaction affects the body in the following five main ways:
- Reduced anxiety
- Prevention of seizures
- Drowsiness
- Short-term memory loss
- Muscle-relaxant
Due to its calming effects, Xanax is used as a treatment for anxiety, panic and mood disorders.
Why Is Xanax Addictive?
Addiction is a product of pleasurable experience and repetition. When a smoker is feeling stressed, he or she will light a cigarette to get the nicotine fix that releases stimulating endorphins into the brain. Over time, the body will begin to rely on this artificial production and cease the natural release of chemicals. The exact same dependency occurs with Xanax use.
Since Xanax is a much stronger drug than cigarettes, it leads to physical and psychological addiction at a much faster rate. Many physicians believe addiction-forming dependencies can develop within as little as two weeks of use.
Resisting Xanax Cravings
Being dependent on a drug is a slippery slope. The longer a person uses the substance, the greater dosages they must take to achieve the same results. When quitting Xanax, one of the worst things a person can do is quit “cold turkey” because such an abrupt method leads to excruciating withdrawal symptoms. Instead, the best way to eliminate Xanax addiction/cravings is with the guidance of a rehab center. Rehab centers offer several time-tested methods to build will power and resist temptation. These methods may include the following:
- Personalized help from trained recovery specialists
- Group counseling with peers facing similar hardships
- Healthy and supportive involvement of family and loved ones
- Planned system of goals
- Accountability
How to Quit Xanax
We understand that Xanax addiction is a complex disease and that resisting relapse is difficult. This is why we can connect you to recovery solutions that are directly intended to break the routines that perpetuate physical and psychological addiction. These treatment options replace damaging effects of Xanax abuse with a healthy lifestyle. If you or a loved one is struggling with the consequences of Xanax addiction, we can help. Our recovery helpline is available 24 hours a day to provide you with information on the treatment options you need. You are not alone in the struggle against addiction. Call us today.
