Recovering from alcoholism is a long journey that can be even tougher when you also suffer from a mental health disorder such as anxiety. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for the two disorders to go hand in hand. Mental health professionals use the term "dual diagnosis" to describe someone suffering from a substance abuse problem and a mental health issue concurrently.
Basics
If you suffer from both alcoholism and anxiety, each will have an impact on the other. If you start drinking more, your anxiety will probably increase. If you feel more anxious, you're likely to turn to alcohol to cope. These two disorders are so wrapped up together that it's impossible to treat one without treating the other. Whether the alcoholism or anxiety comes first is hard to say and depends on the individual. Some people start drinking heavily to deal with their anxiety disorder and others become anxious after abusing alcohol.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Everyone experiences anxiety. It's a normal part of daily life, but it becomes a problem when the anxiety impacts your ability to be successful at school or work and to make and maintain healthy relationships. The Mayo Clinic reports that symptoms of anxiety include overwhelming fears and worries, fatigue, restlessness, trouble concentrating, muscle tension, difficulty sleeping, nausea and sweating.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
Alcohol use turns into alcohol abuse when it impacts the person's life negatively and the person doesn't cut back on drinking. It happens when someone drinks too much too regularly. Alcoholism occurs when you feel the need to drink daily, you have symptoms of withdrawal if you don't drink, you need to have a drink in the morning, you have problems with the law due to drinking and you drink and drive. If you're at risk of getting a divorce or losing your job due to drinking, you have a problem that needs attention.
Types of Treatment
Typically, anxiety is treated with medication and therapy, but it can be dangerous to mix anxiety medications such as antidepressants or benzodiazepines with heavy drinking. You may need to get sober before a doctor will prescribe medication for your anxiety disorder. Treatment for alcoholism includes detoxification, short-term rehabilitation, long-term rehabilitation, 12-step programs, individual and family therapy, and support groups. A person's treatment needs will depend on his level of alcohol use and the severity of his anxiety.
Warning
If you are dependent on alcohol, you should seek professional treatment before you stop drinking. You may need medical supervision when you stop, because withdrawal symptoms can be severe or cause death.
