Living with constant, overwhelming worry can feel like carrying a weight you can’t put down. For many people in Biloxi, Mississippi, this daily struggle has a name: generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, GAD doesn’t just affect your thoughts—it impacts your body, your relationships, and your ability to function day to day. And for some, that anxiety leads to dangerous coping mechanisms, like alcohol or drug use.
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, we understand the deep connection between mental health and substance abuse. Our compassionate, comprehensive approach to treatment helps individuals in Biloxi and the surrounding Gulf Coast communities find lasting recovery from both.
What Is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Generalized anxiety disorder is more than occasional stress or nervousness. It’s a persistent state of worry that doesn’t go away, even when there’s no clear cause. People with GAD often feel “on edge” most of the time and struggle to relax, no matter what they do.
Common symptoms include:
- Excessive, uncontrollable worry about everyday things
- Restlessness or feeling keyed up
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or a “blank mind”
- Irritability
- Muscle tension
- Sleep problems
These symptoms can significantly interfere with daily life. For someone living in Biloxi, it may mean missed work, strained relationships, or isolation from their coastal community. Unfortunately, many people try to hide these struggles rather than seek help.
Why People with Anxiety Turn to Substances
When anxiety becomes too much to bear, some people turn to substances like alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines in an effort to self-medicate. These substances may provide temporary relief, dulling the sense of panic or nervousness. But that relief is short-lived and comes at a cost.
Over time, the brain begins to rely on these substances to regulate emotions. This not only worsens the original anxiety but also leads to dependence or full-blown addiction. In fact, research shows that individuals with anxiety disorders are more likely to develop substance use disorders than the general population.
The Complexity of Co-Occurring Disorders
When someone experiences both a mental health disorder like GAD and a substance use disorder, it’s known as a co-occurring disorder, or dual diagnosis. This combination requires careful, integrated treatment. According to a comprehensive review published in the National Library of Medicine, individuals with generalized anxiety disorder are significantly more likely to develop substance use disorders, and vice versa. Unfortunately, many treatment programs still address only one condition at a time, which limits recovery outcomes.
For example, treating substance use without addressing the underlying anxiety can lead to relapse. Similarly, focusing only on anxiety while ignoring substance use can prevent full emotional healing. That’s why it’s so important to seek specialized care that treats both conditions together.
Integrated Treatment for Anxiety and Addiction in Biloxi
At Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center, located right here in Biloxi, we specialize in treating co-occurring disorders with an integrated care model. Our clinical team recognizes that generalized anxiety disorder and addiction are often intertwined, and our approach reflects that understanding.
We offer:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify and change harmful thought patterns that contribute to anxiety and substance use.
- Medication Management: When appropriate, we use non-addictive medications to manage anxiety symptoms.
- Group and Individual Therapy: Creating space for connection, healing, and shared understanding.
- Holistic Services: Including mindfulness, nutritional support, and stress management tools.
- Trauma-Informed Care: Many individuals with GAD have experienced past trauma that fuels both anxiety and substance use.
Our goal is to empower every client with the tools and support they need to recover fully—mentally, emotionally, and physically.
Breaking the Stigma in South Mississippi
Mental health struggles are still heavily stigmatized in many Southern communities, including here in Mississippi. People may feel ashamed to admit they’re anxious, let alone addicted. This silence can delay care and increase suffering.
At MSDATC, we’re working to break down those barriers. We believe that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether you’re a young professional in Biloxi, a parent trying to hold it together, or someone who’s been hiding their pain for years, you deserve compassionate, judgment-free care.
Getting Help for Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Biloxi
If you or someone you love is experiencing signs of generalized anxiety disorder, especially alongside substance use, it’s important to act early. The longer anxiety and addiction go untreated, the more deeply they can take root.
Mississippi Drug and Alcohol Treatment Center is here to help you take that first step. Located in Biloxi, we provide accessible, confidential care to people throughout the Gulf Coast region. Our team works with most major insurance providers, and we’re committed to helping you find a path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions About Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Biloxi, MS
- What are the signs of generalized anxiety disorder?
GAD symptoms include constant worry, restlessness, trouble sleeping, irritability, and muscle tension. These symptoms often persist for six months or more and interfere with daily life. - Can anxiety lead to substance abuse?
Yes. Many people with untreated anxiety use alcohol, opioids, or other substances to cope. This often leads to addiction, which worsens anxiety over time. - Is treatment for generalized anxiety disorder available in Biloxi, MS?
Yes. MSDATC offers integrated treatment for GAD and co-occurring substance use, combining therapy, medication support, and holistic care. - How do I know if I need dual diagnosis treatment?
If you’re dealing with both anxiety and substance use, dual diagnosis care is likely the right choice. Our licensed clinicians in Biloxi can help determine the best approach. - Is treatment at MSDATC confidential?
Yes. We provide private, confidential care in a safe and supportive environment.
If you or a loved one in Biloxi, Mississippi is struggling with generalized anxiety disorder and substance use, compassionate help is closer than you think. Reach out now.
(855) 334-6120
MississippiDATC.com
13251 Reece Bergeron Road, Biloxi, MS 39532
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