The Connection Between Anxiety and Addiction
Anxiety and addiction are closely linked, creating a cycle difficult to break without the right treatment. With over 30% of adults in the United States reporting symptoms of anxiety and/or depression, the rise in mental health struggles and addiction mirrors a surge in substance use and its consequences. Based on research, an estimated 19.1% of adults in the U.S. had an anxiety disorder in the past year, and an estimated 31.1% of U.S. adults experienced an anxiety disorder at some time in their lives. Individuals facing anxiety or depression often turn to substances such as alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications as a way to self-medicate, seeking temporary relief from emotional pain. However, this form of coping typically worsens anxiety, potentially leading to the development of a substance use disorder. The relationship between these conditions is complex, but understanding it is essential for effective treatment. Anxiety can make the world feel overwhelming, and the need to escape that constant stress can drive individuals to substances for a brief sense of control. The temporary relief from these substances, however, only creates more long-term harm, reinforcing feelings of hopelessness and dependence. The emotional and psychological burden grows heavier, making it increasingly difficult to find a way out without proper help. If not addressed together, anxiety and addiction can continue to fuel one another, making recovery even more challenging. The impact of untreated anxiety on the recovery process can be profound, leading to relapse or incomplete healing. Those in recovery from addiction may find themselves struggling with lingering anxiety, which can quickly turn into a reason to self-medicate again. Recognizing the connection between mental health and substance use is the first step toward healing—seeking comprehensive treatment that targets both issues simultaneously can pave the way for lasting recovery.
How Does Anxiety Affect Addiction?
Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions in the U.S., affecting over 40 million adults annually. For many, anxiety manifests as racing thoughts, excessive worry, irritability, restlessness, and panic attacks—symptoms that interfere with daily life. The constant state of stress drives individuals to seek immediate relief, often turning to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications. While substances like alcohol or opioids may provide temporary relief from anxiety symptoms—calming the mind or numbing distress—this escape is short-lived. Once the effects wear off, anxiety often resurfaces, sometimes more intensely than before. This sets off a harmful cycle: the brain becomes reliant on substances to manage anxiety, and what began as occasional use quickly spirals into addiction. This dependency can worsen anxiety symptoms. Withdrawal from substances like alcohol or drugs mimics anxiety-related physical sensations—irritability, agitation, and panic—creating a dangerous feedback loop. Over time, substance use can alter brain chemistry, making it even more difficult to manage anxiety without the aid of drugs or alcohol. In the long term, substance use significantly alters brain chemistry. Alcohol, for example, impacts gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)—a neurotransmitter responsible for calming the central nervous system and promoting feelings of serenity. Chronic alcohol use disrupts the brain’s natural ability to regulate GABA, making it harder to manage anxiety without alcohol. Over time, this dependence deepens, further entrenching both addiction and anxiety. 
Does Getting Sober Help With Anxiety?
Sobriety can be a transformative step for those struggling with anxiety and addiction, offering a path to greater mental clarity and emotional balance. The research underscores the benefits of quitting alcohol: a 2019 study from the University of Hong Kong found that individuals who abstain from drinking report better mental and physical health, as well as a higher quality of life, compared to those who drink in moderation. While anxiety may temporarily intensify during early sobriety due to withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness or agitation, this phase typically subsides with time. WhiteSands Treatment offers a supportive environment to help patients navigate these early challenges. Through services like therapy, dual diagnosis treatment, and holistic options such as yoga and mindfulness, clients can develop tools to manage anxiety effectively and embrace a sober lifestyle. Incorporating regular exercise, mindfulness, and proper nutrition can profoundly enhance the benefits of sobriety. Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators, which help reduce anxiety and improve overall mental well-being. Activities such as yoga or walking outdoors can be particularly effective, combining physical activity with mindfulness to create a sense of calm and focus. Proper nutrition is equally important in recovery. A balanced diet provides the brain and body with the nutrients needed to restore neurotransmitter function and stabilize mood. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin B6 are particularly beneficial for managing anxiety and supporting brain health. WhiteSands Treatment offers a comprehensive approach that integrates these holistic practices into addiction treatment, ensuring patients receive the support they need to achieve lasting relief from anxiety. Through individualized care and a commitment to healing, patients can move toward a healthier, happier life free from the burdens of addiction and anxiety.
How Long After Quitting Drinking Does Anxiety Get Better?
The timeline for anxiety improvement after quitting drinking varies depending on factors like the duration and severity of alcohol use and the presence of underlying mental health conditions. For many, anxiety symptoms begin to improve within a few weeks of sobriety, typically around the four-week mark. However, those with more severe addiction or pre-existing anxiety disorders may experience a longer recovery period. At WhiteSands Treatment, the dual diagnosis treatment program addresses both addiction and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to recovery. In addition to traditional therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychotherapy, WhiteSands integrates holistic treatments, such as yoga and mindfulness meditation, to help manage anxiety and improve emotional resilience. For those facing alcohol-induced anxiety, WhiteSands’ medically-assisted detox program helps ease withdrawal symptoms while monitoring mental health. MAT is also available to stabilize mood and reduce anxiety during early recovery, providing patients with the tools needed for lasting recovery. Â 
Will Giving Up Alcohol Cure My Anxiety?
While giving up alcohol can improve mental health, it may not completely cure anxiety—especially for those with pre-existing anxiety disorders. Alcohol often masks underlying issues, and its removal may bring these issues to the surface. For example, someone who drank to manage social anxiety may find their symptoms resurfacing once they stop drinking. However, sobriety offers an opportunity to address these issues through healthier coping mechanisms, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or medication prescribed by a mental health professional. While alcohol-induced anxiety can improve significantly with sobriety, those with co-occurring disorders should adopt a multifaceted approach, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and possibly medication.
Breaking the Cycle of Anxiety and Addiction With Help From WhiteSands Treatment
The connection between anxiety and addiction underscores the importance of integrated treatment. Programs that address both conditions simultaneously can help individuals achieve lasting recovery and improved mental health. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction and mental health disorders, don’t wait to get the help you need. Call WhiteSands Treatment today at (877) 855-3470 to learn more about our comprehensive addiction treatment programs and start your journey toward recovery.
External Sources
- US News – Quitting Alcohol May Help Mental Health
- SAMHSA – Mental Health and Substance Co-Occurring Disorders
- ADAA – Anxiety Disorders – Facts and Statistics
- National Institute of Mental Health – Any Anxiety Disorder
If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.
About the Author
Jackie has been involved in the substance abuse and addiction treatment sector for over five years and this is something that she is truly eager about. She has a passion for writing and continuously works to create informative pieces that not only educate and inform the public about the disease of addiction but also provide solutions for those who struggle with drug and alcohol abuse.
