Xanax belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. While effective for short-term use, Xanax prescriptions come with a high risk of addiction when taken long-term. At Red Ribbon Recovery, we recognize how quickly Xanax use can escalate into Xanax dependence. Our compassionate, judgment-free environment provides high-quality Xanax addiction treatment, utilizing a range of evidence-based approaches to support lasting recovery.
What is Xanax?
Xanax, the brand name for alprazolam, is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that helps slow down brain activity, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. As part of the benzodiazepine class of medications, it is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and insomnia.
Classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, Xanax carries a risk of misuse, dependence, and addiction. While it is legally available by prescription in various strengths and tablet forms, it is also one of the most frequently diverted and abused prescription drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has identified counterfeit Xanax pills circulating on the street, many of which do not contain alprazolam and may be laced with dangerous substances like fentanyl.
How does Xanax addiction develop?
Xanax addiction doesn’t happen all at once—it often begins with legitimate use for anxiety or panic attacks but can gradually turn into physical and psychological dependence. Over time, individuals may find themselves relying on the drug to function, increasing doses as their tolerance builds. Eventually, what started as occasional or prescribed use can lead to compulsive behavior and withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to stop without medical support.
Clinicians diagnose sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder using criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). When Xanax use begins to interfere with daily responsibilities, relationships, and overall health, it may indicate addiction. Common warning signs of a substance use disorder, including Xanax addiction include:
- Taking larger amounts or using for longer than planned
- Wanting to cut back but being unable to do so
- Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from the substance
- Experiencing intense cravings or urges to use
- Neglecting work, school, or family responsibilities due to substance use
- Continuing use despite negative effects on relationships, emotions, or well-being
- Losing interest in hobbies, activities, or social interactions
- Using in unsafe situations, increasing the risk of harm or injury
- Ignoring physical or mental health problems caused or worsened by use
- Needing higher doses over time to achieve the same effect (tolerance)
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating, tremors, or nausea, when not usingIf someone experiences two or more of these symptoms within 12 months, they may meet the DSM-5 criteria for a sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use disorder.
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The effects of Xanax abuse on the brain and body
While Xanax misuse might feel good at first, over time, it has extremely negative impacts on your body and central nervous system.
For example, long-term use of Xanax causes cognitive impairment, including feelings of confusion and issues with concentration, decision-making, and problem-solving.
Other symptoms of Xanax addiction over time include:
- Decreased mental alertness
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Muscle weakness
- Poor balance and coordination
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slurred speech and blurred vision
- Worsening depression
- Organ damage to your liver and kidneys
- Respiratory depression, which can result in a coma or death
Some researchers feel that Xanax belongs only in the short-term category and shouldn’t be prescribed for longer than a few weeks, but many doctors still prescribe the drug for months or even years, which can result in drug abuse and Xanax addiction.
If you use Xanax and are concerned about the damage the drug is causing in your life or are concerned about Xanax withdrawal symptoms, reach out to us to learn more about treatment for Xanax addiction.
When to get Xanax addiction treatment
Recognizing when to seek help for Xanax addiction is crucial for preventing further physical, mental, and emotional harm. Because Xanax is often prescribed for legitimate medical reasons, it can be difficult to determine when use has crossed the line into dependence or addiction. However, there are clear signs that professional treatment is necessary:
- You feel unable to function without Xanax. If you rely on Xanax daily to manage stress, anxiety, or sleep, it may indicate dependence.
- You’ve developed a tolerance. If your prescribed dose no longer provides the same effects and you find yourself taking more than directed, this is a red flag.
- You experience withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, nausea, shaking, or seizures when you try to cut back suggest physical dependence.
- You continue using despite negative consequences. If Xanax is affecting your job, relationships, or health, yet you struggle to stop, addiction may be present.
- You engage in risky behaviors. Doctor shopping, buying Xanax illegally, or mixing it with other substances like alcohol can be dangerous and life-threatening.
- You’ve tried to quit and failed. If you’ve attempted to stop using Xanax but found yourself unable to due to withdrawal symptoms or cravings, professional treatment can help you break the cycle safely.
If any of these signs resonate with you, seeking treatment as soon as possible is the best way to regain control of your life. Early intervention can prevent the worsening of withdrawal symptoms, reduce the risk of complications, and set you on a path toward lasting recovery.
At Red Ribbon Recovery, we offer compassionate, evidence-based treatment to help you safely detox, manage withdrawal symptoms, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. If you’re unsure whether you need professional help, our team can provide an assessment to determine the right level of care for your needs. You don’t have to face this alone—reach out today.
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Xanax treatment at Red Ribbon Recovery in Indiana
Addiction to Xanax and other CNS depressants can cause significant negative impacts on your life, including your physical and mental health, but fortunately, there is effective treatment for Xanax addiction. At our treatment center in Indiana, healthcare professionals can provide a variety of Xanax treatment options, including assessments, detox, inpatient care, outpatient treatment, and aftercare support.
If you struggle with Xanax use or substance use disorder, we can help you create an addiction treatment plan with the Xanax addiction treatment options that work best for your needs.
Medically assisted detox for Xanax withdrawal symptoms
The first step to overcoming Xanax abuse and addiction is going through detox. However, the detox process can be frightening due to the significant withdrawal symptoms of stopping Xanax use. At our medically supervised detox program, you’ll have the support you need to manage the physical and mental symptoms of acute withdrawal.
At Red Ribbon, you’ll have medical professionals supporting you 24/7 with approved medication and other interventions to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and other acute withdrawal symptoms. In addition to treatment for those physical symptoms, you’ll get counseling to help manage the psychological impact of detox and withdrawal.
If you face severe withdrawal symptoms, our medical professionals will be there to provide the medication, medical expertise, and other support that you need to move through medical detox safely and with as much comfort as possible.
One of the things we work on during treatment is helping you understand that there are other ways to manage anxiety that don’t require the use of Xanax or other substances. We’ll help you develop coping strategies and healthy ways to express and work through the underlying causes of anxiety and other mental health conditions.
Once you finish the medically supervised detox program, you’ll be ready for the next steps in your treatment program.
Managing co-occurring mental disorders
Another important part of treating addiction is ensuring that any co-occurring disorders are also addressed. Drug abuse and addiction commonly co-occur with mental health disorders, especially when it comes to benzodiazepine addiction because the medication is originally prescribed for mental health concerns.
It’s essential to treat both disorders together because they affect one another. Substance abuse can worsen mental health conditions, while disorders like panic disorder can make the substance abuse treatment process more complex and challenging.
Both our inpatient and outpatient treatment programs provide individual and group therapy to help you address the root causes of Xanax addiction, including any mental health needs.
Inpatient treatment for Xanax addiction
Substance abuse treatment for severe Xanax addiction generally includes residential treatment after the detox process. Inpatient treatment allows you to focus entirely on treatment without any outside distractions. It also gives you the structure you need to stay busy and manage cravings as well as old mindsets as you work to break free from them.
One of the Xanax addiction treatment options that can be essential to long-term recovery is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Research in addiction medicine has shown that MAT is very effective at helping patients remain stable in treatment, lowering the chances of relapse and increasing the number of people who are able to overcome addiction.
At our Xanax rehab, we have treatment providers who can provide FDA-approved medications for MAT. The healthcare professionals at our treatment facility will monitor the results and help ensure you have the right medication at the right dosage to overcome Xanax addiction.
In the early stages of recovery, addiction treatment is carefully tailored to your unique needs. With the right support, evidence-based care, and dedicated professionals by your side, overcoming substance use disorder is possible.
Outpatient programs for Xanax addiction treatment
We have a variety of treatment options, and after inpatient rehab, several outpatient programs can help you continue your recovery journey. There are three programs of varying intensity: partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and general outpatient care.
Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
A partial hospitalization program is the most intensive level of outpatient care, providing structured support while allowing individuals to return home at the end of the day. PHPs offer many of the same services as residential treatment, including individual and group therapy, behavioral therapy, and evidence-based treatments for substance use disorder.
Treatment takes place five days a week, with sessions lasting either a full or partial day, depending on individual needs. During PHP, participants work closely with medical professionals and therapists to develop coping strategies, address underlying mental health concerns, and build a strong foundation for recovery.
This level of care is ideal for those who require intensive support but do not need 24/7 supervision in a residential facility.
Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
The intensive outpatient program (IOP) provides a structured yet flexible treatment option for individuals who need significant support while maintaining work, school, or family responsibilities. Unlike PHP, IOP requires a lower time commitment, typically involving three-hour sessions several days a week, with morning and evening options available.
IOP includes individual and group therapy, relapse prevention education, life skills training, and holistic approaches to healing. The focus shifts toward practicing independent living, applying newly learned coping strategies in real-life situations, and reinforcing long-term recovery skills.
This level of care is best suited for those who have completed a higher level of treatment, such as PHP or residential rehab and are ready to transition to more independent recovery.
Standard outpatient treatment (OP)
Standard outpatient treatment (OP) is the least intensive level of care, designed for individuals who have developed stability in their recovery but still benefit from ongoing professional support. OP typically consists of one to two therapy sessions per week, providing a space to continue working on personal growth and relapse prevention.
Outpatient rehab allows for maximum flexibility, enabling individuals to maintain work, school, and family commitments while still receiving professional guidance. Therapy sessions may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and support groups to reinforce healthy coping strategies.
This level of care is ideal for those transitioning from IOP or PHP or for individuals who need periodic support to sustain long-term sobriety.
Continued engagement in a standard outpatient rehab program at our treatment center in Indiana helps prevent relapse and fosters personal accountability in maintaining a healthy, substance-free lifestyle.
Aftercare support for lifelong recovery
It’s not easy to overcome Xanax addiction, and finishing treatment is just the beginning of your recovery lifestyle. Our team knows you need additional ongoing support to stay strong and avoid relapse, and we connect you with the aftercare resources you need.
Aftercare often includes ongoing individual therapy sessions as well as peer support, recovery groups like 12-step programs or SMART recovery, and links to community resources.
A peer is someone who’s been through what you’ve been through and can provide support and help you find the resources that allow them to stay stable.
Struggling with Xanax addiction might have resulted in you losing your job or place to live. Once you’re in recovery, you can get housing support and employment services to help you live independently and productively in the future.
Our goal is to see you overcome Xanax, addictive substances, and other bad habits and transform your life into something extraordinary.
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How to support a loved one struggling with Xanax addiction
Watching someone you care about battle addiction can be overwhelming, but support from family and friends can make a significant difference. Encouragement, patience, and access to the right resources can help guide them toward recovery. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) suggests the following ways to offer meaningful support:
- Create a judgment-free space. Let them know they can talk openly without fear of criticism.
- Express concern with kindness. Approach conversations with empathy, reassuring them that help is available.
- Acknowledge family history, if relevant. Understanding any genetic factors may help them recognize the need for treatment.
- Practice patience and compassion. Recovery is a process, and offering consistent encouragement can help them feel less alone.
- Reinforce that addiction is treatable. Remind them that professional help can lead to a better, healthier life.
- Assist in finding resources. Help research treatment options, therapists, or support groups that can guide them toward recovery.
Your support may not lead to immediate change, but showing that you care without judgment can encourage them to take the first step toward seeking help.
Get Xanax addiction treatment in Indiana
If you’re addicted to Xanax, you might feel hopeless and wonder if you can ever break free. We’re here to tell you it’s possible, but not alone. Our team at Red Ribbon Recovery provides a complete continuum of care, ranging from Xanax withdrawal treatment to inpatient care and outpatient treatment.
The early stages of treatment are the time when you need the highest level of support. Our professional staff has the knowledge and experience to tailor that support directly to your needs. If you’re ready to take your first steps into a happier, healthier future, contact us today.
We are here to help you or a loved one find addiction treatment near you.
Admitting you have a substance abuse problem and asking for help is not always easy. If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction or another substance use disorder, help is available. Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (317) 707 9848 to learn about resources in your area or reach out to our team for personalized treatment.
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Sources
- Ait-Daoud, N., Hamby, A.S., Sharma, S., & Blevins, D. (March 2018). A review of alprazolam use, misuse, and withdrawal. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 12(1), 4-10.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th edition).
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (June 2016). Impact of the DSM-IV to DSM-5 changes on the National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (US).
- George, T.T. & Tripp, J. (May 2022). Alprazolam. StatPearls Publishing.
- Drug Enforcement Administration. (July 2018). Drug scheduling.
- Center for Behavioral Health and Statistics and Quality. (July 2024). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Rockville, MD.
About the content
Written by: Carli Simmonds. Carli Simmonds holds a Master of Arts in Community Health Psychology from Northeastern University. From a young age, she witnessed the challenges her community faced with substance abuse, addiction, and mental health challenges, inspiring her dedication to the field.
Medical reviewed by: Jodi Tarantino, LICSW. Jodi Tarantino is an experienced, licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Program Director with over 20 years of experience in Behavioral Healthcare. Also reviewed by the RRR Editorial team.
Red Ribbon Recovery is committed to delivering transparent, up-to-date, and medically accurate information. All content is carefully written and reviewed by experienced professionals to ensure clarity and reliability. During the editorial and medical review process, our team fact-checks information using reputable sources. Our goal is to create content that is informative, easy to understand and helpful to our visitors.
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