The Dangers of Relying on Xanax for Depression

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Xanax is a drug that is often prescribed to people struggling with depression. Unfortunately, it is often misused, which can lead to addiction and other serious health problems. There are many dangers of relying on Xanax for depression. In fact, misusing Xanax can actually worsen depression and cause other mental health problems.

Xanax addiction is very serious and should be treated as such. The good news is that there is help available. Our team at The Kimberly Center treats those struggling with this type of addiction. We can help you through the detox process and help you to begin living a happier and healthier life right away.

What Is Xanax?

The technical term for Xanax is alprazolam, which is among a drug class known as benzodiazepines. In addition to depression, it can be used to treat other conditions like anxiety and panic disorder. It is taken orally either as a standard tablet, extended-release tablet, or solution. It should always be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor.

The way that this drug works is that it helps decrease high levels of excitement in the brain. This allows the individual to feel relief from intense fear or depression. When it is not taken correctly, or if it is taken without a prescription, you can experience some pretty major side effects, some of which may be severe. This can also lead to addiction.

There are different ways that Xanax can be abused. Xanax abuse may include just taking more of the drug than you’re supposed to. It could also include taking it with other drugs or alcohol, injecting it, or snorting it.

Understanding How an Individual Can Reach the Point of Relying on Xanax for Depression

Some people, particularly teens, acquire Xanax by buying or stealing it from someone with a legitimate prescription. They may have the intention of using it recreationally only some of the time. However, over time they may build up a tolerance to the drug. Once you have built up a tolerance to a drug like Xanax, you will need more and more of it to experience the same effects.

It is through continual misuse and building up a tolerance to it, that you can become addicted to Xanax. You may also experience uncomfortable withdrawal side effects if you stop taking Xanax suddenly. This can further cause a person to continue to misuse the drug.

Other people can reach a point of relying on Xanax completely by accident. They may have received their prescription from their doctor to treat their depression and had every intention of taking it correctly. However, over time they may decide to take more of it than they were prescribed. This could be because they don’t feel as if they are experiencing relief fast enough or not the level of relief they were hoping for.

Understanding the Dangers of Relying on Xanax for Depression

It is possible to overdose on Xanax if you are taking it incorrectly. There are some signs of Xanax overdose that you should be able to recognize so that you can get yourself or someone else help right away. Remember that it is important to get help right away and not wait for symptoms to progress before seeking medical attention.

Some common signs of Xanax overdose include:

  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness
  • Lack of consciousness
  • Changes in breathing
  • Slowed heart rate
  • Muscle weakness
  • Irritability
  • Loss of balance
  • Fainting

How to Get Help if You’re Relying on Xanax for Depression

If you currently have a problem with relying on Xanax for depression, there is help available. It is important to reach out for help as soon as possible before your condition worsens. At The Kimberly Center, Xanax addiction is one of the conditions that we treat. If you choose to receive treatment at our facility, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll be in very good hands.

At our facility, we offer several different treatment plans to fit your unique needs and situation. This includes inpatient care, outpatient care, and sober living. If you’re not sure which treatment program is right for you, you can speak with a member of our team who will be able to give you a recommendation. Each treatment plan is individualized to best serve each client.

If you choose our inpatient care plan, you will be staying at our facility full-time during your treatment program. There will be staff around 24/7 to help monitor your symptoms and treat any withdrawal symptoms you may be experiencing. You will still be able to communicate with family and friends back home.

With our outpatient program, you will continue to live at home but will come to our facility regularly for treatment. With this option, you will be able to continue to go to work or school as normal. You will also be able to maintain your normal schedule for the most part.

Xanax addiction is very serious and can lead to dangerous health complications. You don’t have to resort to relying on Xanax to treat your depression. You can find relief in other ways, such as through therapy and lifestyle changes. If you feel as if you’ve tried everything and you still cannot find relief from your depression, know that you are not alone. Reach out to your doctor today to learn about what different resources are available to you. If you are struggling with addiction of any kind, our team at The Kimberly Center is here to help. Give us a call at (855) 452-3683 today to learn more about our services. 

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