Why Anxiety and Panic Attacks Occur During Detox

Detoxing from drugs and alcohol often triggers physical and emotional symptoms as the body adjusts to the absence of substances. Anxiety and panic attacks are common reactions because substances like alcohol, opioids, and stimulants alter brain chemistry. When these substances are abruptly removed, the brain struggles to rebalance, leading to increased anxiety levels.

In some cases, anxiety can be further intensified by pre-existing mental health conditions or the fear of withdrawal symptoms themselves. Additionally, individuals who have been using substances to manage anxiety may find it challenging to cope without them.

The Physical and Psychological Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety during detox manifests in both physical and psychological forms. Physically, it can present as:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating
• Trembling or shaking
• Nausea

Psychologically, anxiety can lead to:

• Excessive worry
• Irrational fears
• Difficulty concentrating
• Restlessness
• Panic attacks

Understanding these symptoms is vital. Recognizing them early on can make it easier to manage their impact during the detox process.

Managing Anxiety During Drug and Alcohol Detox

At Briarwood Detox Center, we use a comprehensive and individualized approach to help clients manage anxiety throughout the detox journey. Our evidence-based therapies offer both immediate relief and long-term strategies to reduce anxiety. Here’s how we address anxiety effectively:

1. Medical Supervision
   During drug and alcohol detox, medical supervision is critical. Our team of professionals monitors your vitals, manages withdrawal symptoms, and offers medication when necessary to alleviate severe anxiety or panic attacks. This 24/7 support not only provides reassurance but also ensures your safety throughout the process.
2. Holistic Therapies
   Addressing anxiety involves more than treating physical symptoms. Our holistic therapies include meditation, mindfulness, and breathing exercises, which are highly effective in reducing anxiety and panic attacks. These techniques help calm the mind, making it easier to focus on recovery.
3. Counseling and Emotional Support
   Detoxing from drugs and alcohol can stir up a wide range of emotions. Individual counseling provides clients with a safe space to discuss their feelings and fears. Therapists help clients develop coping mechanisms that work specifically for them, ensuring that emotional support is always available during these challenging moments.

Coping with Panic Attacks in Detox

Panic attacks are sudden, intense bursts of fear that can be terrifying. While panic attacks can feel overwhelming, there are ways to cope with them during detox:

1. Breathing Exercises
   When panic sets in, controlled breathing can help restore calm. Simple techniques like inhaling slowly through the nose, holding the breath for a few seconds, and exhaling slowly through the mouth can significantly reduce the severity of a panic attack.
2. Grounding Techniques
   Grounding involves focusing on the present moment to distract from panic. Simple exercises like identifying five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste can bring immediate relief.
3. Medication Management
   In some cases, medication may be needed to manage severe panic attacks during detox. Briarwood Detox Center provides medication options when necessary to ease anxiety, ensuring that clients receive the right care tailored to their specific needs.

The Importance of Professional Detox

Attempting drug and alcohol detoxification at home can be extremely risky, especially when anxiety and panic attacks are present. Without professional support, these symptoms can escalate, potentially leading to severe complications. At Briarwood Detox Center, our programs offer the safest way to detox with medical supervision, individualized care, and comprehensive support tailored to address both physical and emotional challenges.

Long-Term Solutions for Anxiety After Detox

While managing anxiety during detox is crucial, it’s equally important to have strategies for maintaining mental health in recovery. Briarwood Detox Center extends support beyond detoxification through comprehensive treatment options that address the root causes of addiction and anxiety, promoting sustained recovery.

1. Continued Counseling
   After detox, ongoing counseling helps address underlying anxiety issues. This is essential for long-term recovery and relapse prevention, as unresolved anxiety can often trigger a return to substance use.
2. Mind-Body-Soul Approach
   Our focus on treating the mind, body, and soul ensures a holistic recovery. By integrating practices like exercise, nutritional guidance, and mindfulness into your routine, we help build resilience against anxiety and support sustained sobriety.

Get Help Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with anxiety during drug and alcohol detox, don’t wait to seek help. At Briarwood Detox Center in Austin, TX, we provide safe, compassionate care designed to ease anxiety and promote a successful detox experience.

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Anxiety and panic attacks can be daunting challenges during drug and alcohol detox, but they don’t have to prevent you from achieving sobriety. With the right support, strategies, and environment, managing anxiety is possible. Contact Briarwood Detox Center today to begin your journey to recovery in a safe, professional, and caring environment.

Drug Detox With Briarwood

Briarwood Detox Center offers detoxification treatment for alcohol, opioid, methamphetamine, prescription drugs, and much more. Our experienced clinical staff provides round-the-clock monitoring throughout the drug detoxification process and our therapy team provides support to help manage the emotional response to treatment. Additionally, we have detox facilities located in Austin, Houston, and Colorado Springs with state-of-the-art amenities.

Briarwood is dedicated to facilitating a healthy and safe environment that empowers people to make significant and lasting changes in their lives. We look forward to supporting you or your loved one on the journey to recovery. Call (512) 277 – 3103 today for more information on our programs and admission process.