Xanax is a prescription medication that is designed to help you deal with overwhelming anxiety. Unfortunately, many people who are prescribed this medication love the comfort that they feel when they take it. They do not feel stressed out, anxious or nervous, but instead, may feel more calm and relaxed. As time goes on, they may begin to abuse this medication to have a euphoric feeling. If you are addicted to Xanax, you may want to stop taking the medication but may worry about feeling anxious once you do. Here are a few tips to help you quit Xanax and deal with anxiety in recovery.
Deal With the Detox Process
The very first process of quitting Xanax is the detox process. This process can be the most challenging. Detoxing Benzos, such as Xanax, from your body is not easy. Depending on how many a day you were taking and how dependent you are on them, you may feel sick, weak and stressed out during this process. There is very little that can be done during the detox process to help you feel better. You simply have to be strong and know that this phase will pass. Always detox under the care of a recovery center or a doctor.
Exercise Regularly
Once you are out of the detox phase, you can begin the process of dealing with anxiety in sobriety. Fortunately for you, there are many ways that you can naturally cope with anxiety in a healthy manner, instead of turning to pills and medications. One of the ways that you can cope with anxiety is to exercise. Exercising regularly can help to produce endorphins, which help you to naturally feel happier and healthier. Exercise decreases stress and can take your mind off of whatever is making you anxious. It also helps you to manage your weight and look your best. Find an activity, exercise class or sport you enjoy and participate in it regularly.
Meditate and Reflect
Another great way to deal with anxiety when you are quitting Xanax is to meditate and reflect. Some people participate in meditation classes, some people enjoy yoga, some people learn healthy breathing techniques, some people write a journal and some people do a combination of these things. Taking the time to meditate and reflect provides you the opportunity to think. When you are anxious, you may be stressed out, overwhelmed or uncomfortable. Meditating and reflecting allows you to really think about why you are anxious, what about the situation or setting is making you anxious, what can be done to help your anxiety, and what you can do to avoid the scenario in the future. The breathing and meditation also allow you to calm yourself, easing the symptoms of anxiety you may be feeling.
Eat Healthy Meals
Eating healthy foods and meals can affect your entire body. Most people think healthy eating is only done for weight loss, but certain foods affect your health, including your mental health. For example, caffeine has been shown to make anxious people potentially more anxious. As such, if you suffer from anxiety, you may want to avoid or limit cola sodas, teas or coffee drinks. Upping your protein and fresh vegetable intake and decreasing your carb and sugar intake has also been shown to help those with anxiety. Lastly, consider eating several smaller meals a day, rather than a few large ones, to help you stay healthy, full and overcome your anxiety.
Get Plenty of Sleep
The final tip for quitting Xanax and dealing with anxiety in recovery is to get plenty of sleep. You are making changes to your body when you quit Xanax. As such, you may need to take a nap in the afternoon or get an hour or two more sleep overnight. Once you are sober, you will want to make sure you are still getting plenty of sleep. When you are tired, you can feel more irritated or have less patience with people and your surroundings. Ultimately, this can cause an increase in your anxiety symptoms. Making sure you get plenty of rest is one of the ways that you can naturally reduce your anxiety and cope with anxiety in sobriety.
You should never attempt any addiction treatment, including quitting Xanax, on your own. When you are dealing with an addiction, you have a better chance of overcoming the addiction with the help of a professional recovery center. If you need help for an addiction, Newport Beach Recovery can help you. We are a drug and alcohol rehab center in Costa Mesa, CA. Learn more about us and the services we offer by visiting our website today.