Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about something with an uncertain outcome. Who here has ever experienced some form of anxiety? I bet most everyone reading this has. I certainly have. Anxiety is both a mental and a physical disorder that affects billions of people worldwide.
For years, addicts mask these anxieties by using and engaging in other unhealthy behaviors. This temporarily removes the discomfort that accompanies anxiety. Addicts are often asked if their anxiety existed before their addiction, or if their addiction caused their anxiety. This is like asking which came first, the chicken or the egg? In the end, does it really matter? As long as both anxiety and addiction are being treated, who cares which came first?
Anxiety and Recovery: Should Medication be Prescribed?
This question is often posed. Amanda claims that when she experiences an anxiety attack, she has the tools she needs without medication. She believes her anxiety stems from a spiritual disconnect, which can be corrected by working a twelve-step program. However, everyone's unique. Other addicts may be unable to function without proper medical treatment.
Outside help is always an option for the addict who suffers anxiety. The first step is to identify if we are self-inflicting these feelings, or if they're coming from another source, something outside of our control. It's important the sufferer understand what anxiety they suffer from and how it affects them.
Anxiety is never fun. It's uncomfortable and unsettling to those who experience it. It's important to understand that there IS a solution to this discomfort, once you're able to identify the causes and conditions it stems from.