Treatment for Xanax Addiction and Mood Disorders
Xanax (alprazolam) is a very strong short-acting benzodiazepine. While it is most often prescribed for moderate to severe anxiety disorders and panic attacks, it is also used for anxiety associated with moderate depression. Offered in an instant-release and an extended-release formula, Xanax possesses anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic, anticonvulsant and amnestic properties which work by decreasing the excitement levels in the brain.
Xanax Abuse
People who take Xanax often experience some of the benefits of the drug within the first week of use, however because it is a short-acting drug, people have to be cautious about not taking additional doses in an attempt to enhance the therapeutic values. Xanax is also a highly addictive medication, and is considered a schedule IV controlled substance. In addition to the potential for abuse when used in higher doses than prescribed, recreational use and addiction has led to Xanax becoming a commonly misused benzodiazepine in the United States.
About Mood Disorders
Research has shown that approximately 44 million Americans experience some type of mental disorder, and mood disorders are one form of serious mental illness. The two most common mood disorders are depression and bipolar disorder. Depression is described as when a person experiences deep, unshakable sadness and diminished interest in nearly all activities. This level of depression can significantly impair a person’s ability to function causing feelings of despair, hopelessness, worthlessness and thoughts of committing suicide.
Treatment for Xanax Addiction and Mood Disorders
Even though Xanax is sometimes prescribed to treat anxiety associated with moderate depression, one of the side effects of Xanax is that it can cause depression, confusion, unusual changes in behavior or mood, and thoughts of harming or killing yourself. However, with proper treatment depression and addiction can be managed. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) one of the best treatment options for co-occurring disorders is an integrated approach, where both the substance abuse problem and the mental disorder are treated simultaneously. In an integrated program, a synergistic approach is used to blend the components of substance abuse treatment with mental health treatment in a complementary manner.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) describes the following as being part of an effective integrated treatment program:
- Health professionals, working in one setting, providing appropriate treatment for both mental health and substance abuse
- Offering these treatments in a coordinated fashion
- Provide a seamless approach, eliminating the potential for a treatment plan that may not address both issues
Get Help for Xanax Addiction and Mood Disorders
We can help answer your questions and provide information about integrated treatment, insurance coverage, or different treatment modalities. Please call our toll-free helpline today. We are available 24 hours a day to answer any questions you might have about Xanax addiction and mood disorder treatment. We are here to help.
