Xanax (also known as Alprazolam) is a medication that falls under the class of benzodiazepine (tranquilizers). This drug is used to treat conditions such as panic disorder, anxiety, and depression. It is highly addictive and habit-forming, and the addiction to this drug is on the increase in many parts of the world, including the United States. The feeling it gives which is drowsiness, relaxation, and intense calmness makes it popular and widely sought.
Between the years 2012 and 2015, death as a result of abuse of the drug rose from 6,000 to 9,000 according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. This affects not just the individual addict, but his or her family members.
When, Where, and How to Get Help
The first road towards recovery is persuading the individual who is hooked on the drug to admit and accept that they are addicted to it. When you eventually seize the right chance to talk to them, approach them with an understanding and compassionate mindset because such individuals would be prone to having a defensive attitude. Make them realize that you are concerned about their use of the substance. You can ask if they are ready and willing to accept help.
If they want to stop, then it’s a matter of getting them into a Xanax addiction treatment facility. Xanax has a very dangerous detox. So, they would definitely want a medical detox.
Upon completion of the detox, other underlying mental issues and illnesses can be diagnosed by the rehab professional because these may contribute to the addiction.
Specialized facilities that handle and treat recurring disorders always tackle both issues and problems simultaneously.
Xanax addiction can be born from some underlying mental disorders and conditions like social phobia, agoraphobia, and PTSD, so it is recommended to attend programs that provide treatment for some of these co-occurring disorders.
Causes
Different causative variables can lead to the development of Xanax addiction such as genetic environmental factors and brain chemistry. Drugs that belong to the benzodiazepine group give a relaxing sensation since it binds with some receptors in the brain. After some prolonged usage period, some changes begin to occur in these receptors, which makes them less stimulated or affected by stimulus. After some time, the brain builds up some tolerance and the person at that point would require more dosage to be consumed to have the same effect.
How to Spot an Addiction
The social, cultural, political, and environmental tumult happening around the world inflicts a lot of pressure on every citizen of a nation. Some individuals often resort to a faster way of getting rid of these pressures that cause depression and anxiety, sleeplessness, and stress.
When an individual becomes addicted to Xanax, they may be drowsy, have slurred speech, confused, and easily annoyed. It can be similar to the effects of alcohol without the smell of alcohol.
Several disorienting signs and symptoms can be spotted in a Xanax addict. These are dizziness, sleepiness, memory and recollection issues, and difficulty in concentrating.