ANXIETY DISORDERS

If you or someone you love suffers from an anxiety disorder, you are not alone; approximately 19 million American adults struggle with some form of an anxiety disorder. These disorders are especially troublesome because they fill a person's life with overwhelming anxiety and fear. Unlike short, mild anxiety that a person experiences before a big event like public speaking or a blind date, anxiety disorders are chronic and severe, and grow worse and worse if left untreated. A person with anxiety may feel like they are out of control, dying, choking, or having a heart attack. These instances often come without warning and can be debilitating.

Panic disorder is common with anxiety. Panic "attacks" can occur any time, even while a person is sleeping, and usually peak in ten minutes, but can last for longer periods of time. A panic attack caused by anxiety is very real with physical symptoms. If you are having a panic attack, it's likely that your heart will pound; you will feel sweaty, weak, or nauseous, faint or dizzy. Your hands and feet may tingle or feel numb, and you may get sweats or chills. You may feel as if you are having a heart attack, being smothered, choking, or just out of control. Often feelings of impending doom are present, or a person may believe they are having a heart attack.

Certain places or things may cause anxiety, which leads to avoidance. For instance, a person who finds that an elevator may cause panic attacks will simply stop using elevators. Then, when confronted with a situation that requires an elevator must be used, they will simply remove themselves from the situation completely.

To alleviate their feelings of panic and anxiety, many people will turn to use of drugs and/or alcohol. Not only is this dangerous because of the potential addiction to alcohol and/or drugs, but because alcohol and illicit drug use will amplify the anxiety problems, it will lead to more usage, which only creates a vicious cycle. A person then may have increased anxiety caused by their dependence on alcohol and/or drugs.

A person suffering from anxiety combined with substance abuse may find the only way to find relief is through extended treatment at a recovery center. At Gulf Coast Recovery, drug and alcohol abuse is treated, but Gulf Coast Recovery is more than just a detox program. The cause of substance abuse, anxiety, is examined and treated according to the individualized needs of the client. A combination of group therapy, individual counseling, and medication (if necessary) will be utilized to ensure successful recovery.

Located on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, Gulf Coast Recovery provides an environment that promotes relaxation so that a client can focus on their recovery. With a Jacuzzi onsite, weekly barbecues, and monthly boating trips to Egmont Key, Gulf Coast Recovery provides the best possible environment for successful, long-term recovery. If you or someone you love is suffering from substance abuse, stemming from anxiety, please call Gulf Coast Recovery today for information on treatment programs and options.