Treating a person with anxiety depends on the causes of the anxiety and individual preferences. Often, treatments will consist of a combination of psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, and medication.

However, alcohol or drug dependence, depression, or other conditions often have such a strong effect on the individual that treating the anxiety disorder must wait until any underlying conditions are brought under control.

Anxiety and Addiction

A standard way of treating anxiety and addiction co-existing at the same time is psychological counseling. This can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, or a combination of therapies. CBT aims to recognize and change the thinking patterns associated with the anxiety and troublesome feelings, limit distorted thinking, and change the way people react to objects of situations that trigger anxiety. Sessions may be used to explore the causes of anxiety and possible ways to cope with symptoms.

"After thirty-six years in recovery and twenty years in addiction treatment, I am now solely focused on providing personal, 1-on-1 recovery management services to those in need. When I most needed it someone reached out and took my hand and help save my life. Ever since I have dedicated myself to returning that kindness. When I was in dire straits many years ago with an addiction to drugs and alcohol, all I wanted to do was STOP! With the support of skilled clinicians and generous men and women in the recovery community I was not only able to stop, but discovered that I was becoming a better man, a better husband, better father, better colleague, better neighbor, and a better human being. I also found that the key to my happiness is found in service to others. I have dedicated my life to this task and have been gifted with the opportunity to direct others to the discovery of that better life."

- Stuart Birnbaum, Founder