The iconic spiritual leader Thich Nhat Hanh famously said, “Hope is important because it can make the present moment less difficult to bear. If we believe that tomorrow will be better, we can bear a hardship today.” This is a particularly important message for those relying on Xanax for depression. Depression can be devastating, and many people try to escape it via substances. Ultimately, this can be dangerous because it is often only a temporary “fix.” The good news is that there are many other effective means, methods, and modalities that can help one recover from depression.
Better Understanding Xanax and Xanax Addiction
Xanax (a brand name for alprazolam) is a highly popular substance used to treat many psychological and emotional issues (such as depression). Xanax can be very helpful for people in small doses. However, it is not meant to be a prolonged treatment. This is because it can be highly addictive.
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. Clinical research data has not fully shed light on its ‘abuse liability,’ yet it is one of the most frequently prescribed benzodiazepines.”
It is also important to be able to spot the signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction. Being able to do so will help you determine if you may be relying on Xanax too much or if a loved one may have a problem with Xanax addiction.
The Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
Now, of course, the signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction are always going to vary based on the individual. However, one can look out for many of the more universal ones. The following are just a few of those signs and symptoms:
- Not being able to stop once starting to take Xanax
- Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
- Exhibiting excessive mood swings
- Feeling anxious, nervous, or overly “stressed out”
- Isolating away from family and close friends
- Loss of appetite and a lack of care regarding physical appearance and well-being
- Experiencing trouble at work or school
- Having trouble with sleep cycles, including sleeping too much and not sleeping enough
- Experiencing physical ailments such as headaches, body aches, and gastrointestinal problems
- Having continued feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and helplessness
- Causing harm to oneself or others
- Having suicidal ideations
Now, as one can see, these signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction are significant and can even be deadly. This is why reaching out for professional help sooner rather than later is critical. Doing so could mean the difference between short-term side effects and long-term consequences. It is also important to find a better treatment option than relying on Xanax for depression.
The Dangers of Relying on Xanax for Depression
Many people are prescribed Xanax on a short-term basis. This may be due to an issue with anxiety that needs to be addressed intensely and immediately. However, the issue is that some people are prescribed Xanax for a longer period, and they end up reliant on it. This is especially true for those relying on Xanax for depression.
Ultimately, Xanax will work to treat depression, but it will have diminishing returns. This is because one can build up a tolerance to Xanax, and they will begin to take more and more of it. This leads to addiction, not a “cure” for depression. Eventually, something has to give, and before that happens, one should try other modalities to treat their depression, such as holistic healing methods.
Holistic Treatment Options: No Longer Relying on Xanax
There are many great treatment options for depression. This includes psychotherapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and experiential therapies like nature immersion therapy. It also includes holistic healing methods like yoga therapy and mindfulness meditation.
Many holistic healing methods have been practiced for thousands of years. It has only been recently that they have been used to aid in treating depression. Holistic healing methods have been shown to have many benefits. The following are just a few:
- A greater focus on mindfulness
- Creates empathy
- Improved breathing
- Better strength and posture
- Acquiring a better sense of self
- Finding a better sense of mental balance and clarity
- Helping one connect with others and heal relationships
- Increased positivity and wellness
- Connects individuals with new, relatable people
- Encourages spirituality
- Reduces anxiety and depression
- Can help individuals who struggle with suicidal ideations
A Focus on Long-Term Success at Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes,” like a loose prescription to Xanax. That is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
The time for recovery is now. You can do this! We can help.
Many people use Xanax regularly without knowing the dangers or long-term harm. It can be critical to know these dangers, as well as the many recovery options for those struggling with Xanax addiction. The good news is that there are more recovery options and effective treatment modalities than ever before. 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 positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about the dangers of Xanax addiction, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
