Xanax Rehab Los Angeles

What You Need to Know about Xanax

Rehab and Recovery from Xanax Dependency in Los Angeles

Xanax is the most prescribed psychiatric drug in the U.S. with over 47 million prescriptions written for it in 2011.  Xanax (alprazolam, in the benzodiazepine family) is a depressant that acts on the central nervous system, and is used to treat a wide range of anxiety disorders.

As are all benzodiazepines, Xanax is a highly addictive and often abused medication that boosts the effect of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transmitter in the brain.  Low GABA levels lead to feelings of anxiety, so Xanax will produce relaxation and sedating effects.

Because the drug is so addictive, up to 40% of those who take them will develop a dependency, inciting both physical and psychological addiction.  Tolerance to Xanax ramps up quickly, leading to more frequent and increased dosing.  In fact, someone with a Xanax dependency may take up to 30 pills per day.

Treatment for Xanax Dependency

Once someone who has developed a Xanax addiction attempts to stop using the drug they will soon experience highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.  Because detoxing from benzodiazepines can be dangerous, it is advised that detox and withdrawal be carried out in a safe inpatient rehab facility.  So, the beginning of Xanax rehab’s length of time is the detox and withdrawal phase.

Xanax withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Panic attacks
• Irritability
• Hand tremors
• Insomnia
• Blurred vision
• Sweating
• Heart palpitations
• Muscle pain
• Increased anxiety
• Headaches
• Difficulty concentrating

The second stage of treatment involves the psychological component of the Xanax dependency.  Because anxiety disorders often involve disordered thought patterns and responses, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is the psychotherapy of choice for Xanax treatment.  CBT is a short-term therapy that helps patients identify their irrational thoughts and subsequent behaviors in response to them, and help them learn healthy new, constructive responses.

If there is a dual diagnosis—a mental health disorder that accompanies the substance use disorder—treatment for both should be done simultaneously for the best chances of a sustained recovery. The total Xanax rehab length of time varies depending on the degree of the addiction, but most Xanax rehab length of time are 30-90 days.

Holistic Therapies During Xanax Rehab

In most cases, Xanax is prescribed to reduce feelings of anxiety.  An important part of Xanax rehab is teaching the client how to relax without having to rely on medications.  Once the client learns to incorporate the relaxation practices into their daily life they will be equipped to manage feelings of anxiety without relying on medication.

These therapeutic options can include yoga, Reiki, massage, mindfulness techniques, art and music therapy, equine therapy, tai chi, deep breathing techniques, acupuncture, acupressure, meditation or prayer, and aromatherapy.  It is helpful to long-term recovery to establish new habits that include the holistic treatment options that best suit you so these activities can become part of daily life.  Managing stress and learning relaxation techniques are key to living life without Xanax.

Xanax Rehab Length of Time Should Include Aftercare Treatment

Because comprehensive treatment for addiction includes aftercare, the Xanax rehab length of time should also include outpatient care.  Outpatient care gives the person new in recovery a follow-up program, which includes continuing education, group and individual counseling, and active participation in a recovery community.

Although the initial benzodiazepine detox and treatment phases of recovery were successful in stabilizing the client and providing a few weeks of group and individual therapy, the aftercare phase is equally important.  Those that skip this step of treatment and attempt to ‘wing it’ are much more prone to relapse.  Having a weekly session with the therapist provides a sense of accountability that helps keep people strong in recovery.  This holds true for 12-step or non 12-step meetings as well; the social support piece of recovery is of utmost importance.

Receive High Quality Help in Private Los Angeles Detox for Xanax

Deciding to get help for a Xanax dependency is the first step in taking back control over your life.  Call to connect with a treatment center that will provide a free assessment and insurance verification. Call today at (866) 644-7911.