Anxiety and substance use often occur together, and when one is left untreated, recovery can become more difficult. Some people struggle with ongoing anxiety while also dealing with alcohol or drug use, even if they do not realize how closely the two are connected.
Spokane Falls Recovery Center provides anxiety and addiction treatment in Spokane through a co-occurring capable approach that addresses both concerns at the same time, helping individuals build a stronger foundation for long-term recovery. Contact us today at 844.962.2775 to take the next step toward healing from anxiety and addiction.
What are co-occurring conditions?
Co-occurring conditions, sometimes called dual diagnosis, refer to the presence of both a mental health condition and a substance use disorder at the same time. Anxiety is a common mental health concern that appears alongside drug and alcohol addiction.
Mental health challenges and substance use disorders often influence each other. Anxiety symptoms may increase substance use, while substance use can intensify anxiety. When both conditions are present, treating only one can leave the other unresolved.
Examples of co-occurring conditions can include:
- Anxiety alongside alcohol use
- Panic symptoms combined with stimulant use
- Chronic worry paired with prescription or illicit drug use
Because co-occurring conditions are common, care must address mental health and substance use together. Integrated care helps individuals understand how these challenges interact and supports more effective mental health treatment and recovery outcomes.
How untreated anxiety fuels addiction and relapse
Untreated anxiety can play a role in addiction and relapse. Many people experience ongoing worry, fear, or physical tension that makes daily life feel overwhelming. Without healthy coping strategies, substances may feel like a way to reduce emotional pain or quiet anxious thoughts.
Common patterns include using alcohol or drugs to cope with stress, social discomfort, or panic symptoms. This coping strategy can quickly become a cycle. Anxiety increases substance use, and substance use worsens anxiety, especially during withdrawal or early recovery.
Signs that anxiety may be affecting substance use include:
- Using substances to calm nerves or sleep
- Avoiding situations that increase anxiety without substances
- Feeling increased anxiety during periods of sobriety
- Returning to substance use during stressful events
Recognizing symptoms of anxiety early and addressing them through mental health counseling can help reduce relapse risk and support healthier coping strategies.
Integrated treatment approach at Spokane Falls Recovery Center
Spokane Falls Recovery Center offers anxiety and addiction treatment in Spokane through an integrated, co-occurring capable model. This approach recognizes that mental health treatment and substance use treatment work best when provided together rather than separately.
Addiction treatment programs are designed to address anxiety symptoms while also supporting recovery from substance use. Mental health counseling, medication management when clinically appropriate, and evidence-based therapies are coordinated within the same treatment plan.
Benefits of integrated treatment include:
- A better understanding of personal triggers
- Coordinated care across mental health and addiction services
- Individualized treatment planning
- Supportive and structured treatment programs
Spokane Falls Recovery Center provides a supportive and comfortable environment where patients can focus on healing their anxiety and substance use challenges with guidance from a dedicated clinical team.
Personalized treatment programs and therapies
Treatment at Spokane Falls Recovery Center is based on individual needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Some individuals benefit from residential treatment, while others are best supported through an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or outpatient care.
Therapeutic options may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address anxious thinking patterns
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to support emotional regulation
- Individual therapy to explore anxiety triggers and recovery goals
- Group therapy to build skills and peer support
Holistic therapies and supportive services may also be included to promote mental wellness and overall stability. A personalized treatment plan considers mental health history, substance use patterns, family needs, and insurance considerations to support long-term recovery.
The role of mental health in recovery
Mental health plays a central role in a lasting recovery, especially for people with anxiety. Addressing and managing anxiety symptoms can improve emotional balance, decision-making, and resilience during recovery.
Mental health counseling helps individuals understand how anxiety affects thoughts, behaviors, and substance use. Ongoing support can help alleviate emotional distress, enhance coping strategies, and increase confidence in daily life.
Effective addiction treatment focuses on stopping substance use and improving mental wellness. When anxiety is managed, individuals are often better able to stay engaged in recovery and move toward improved mental health outcomes.
Creating success in long-term recovery
Long-term recovery is supported by a comprehensive approach that continues beyond initial treatment. Ongoing aftercare support, family involvement, and alumni connections help individuals stay engaged in their recovery journey.
Strategies that support long-term recovery include:
- Continued therapy or counseling
- Participation in alumni or peer support
- Family therapy, when appropriate
- Structured routines and relapse-prevention planning
A structured treatment environment and continued support help individuals build healthier relationships, manage anxiety, and enhance their quality of life over time.
Taking the next step toward recovery at Spokane Falls Recovery Center
Anxiety and substance use are closely connected, and treating them together can lead to more effective recovery. Recognizing co-occurring anxiety and substance use early allows people to receive care that addresses the full picture of their mental health and recovery needs.
Spokane Falls Recovery Center offers co-occurring capable mental health and addiction treatment programs designed to support long-term recovery. Reaching out for help can be an important step in achieving stability, healing, and enhanced well-being. Call our admissions team at 844.962.2775 or complete our contact form to connect with someone who can help you take the next step.
FAQs on anxiety and addiction recovery
Dual diagnosis refers to having both a mental health condition, such as anxiety, and a substance use disorder at the same time.
Unmanaged anxiety often leads people to self-medicate, which can increase the risk of substance use and relapse.
Programs include residential treatment, intensive outpatient programs, outpatient care, and personalized treatment planning.
Addressing anxiety and substance use together supports more effective recovery and long-term stability.
