Xanax, a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine, is often used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, but its highly addictive nature can quickly lead to dependence. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 30% of overdoses from opioids involve the use of benzodiazepines. With a rise in Xanax prescriptions, it’s more important now than ever to understand and address the negative consequences. For those struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, professional treatment offers the best path toward lasting recovery.

At Free by the Sea, located in the peaceful coastal town of Ocean Park, Washington, we provide compassionate, evidence-based rehab for Xanax addiction. Learn how our addiction treatment programs can help you or a loved one starting today.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, a type of benzodiazepine—commonly referred to as a “benzo.” Benzodiazepines are classified as central nervous system (CNS) depressants, meaning they slow down brain activity and bodily functions. According to the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF), they are considered minor tranquilizers and are primarily used to manage anxiety and panic disorders.

While Xanax is effective for short-term relief, its high potential for abuse and dependence has made it a growing concern across the United States, including in communities like Ocean Park, Washington. Physicians may prescribe Xanax for conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, or—on rare occasions—alcohol withdrawal, though this last use is typically reserved for medically supervised situations due to the severe risks involved, especially when Xanax and alcohol are combined.

Although Xanax can bring relief to individuals struggling with mental health issues, its misuse can quickly lead to addiction. That’s why it’s important to seek rehab for Xanax treatment from a licensed rehab center like Free by the Sea, where we provide safe, comprehensive inpatient and outpatient rehab in Washington State.

Xanax Abuse Statistics

Xanax (alprazolam) misuse remains a growing concern across the U.S., particularly in Washington State and the Pacific Northwest. Between 2019 and 2020, emergency department visits for benzodiazepine overdoses surged by 23.7%, and overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines climbed by 21.8% for prescription formulations, with illicit benzodiazepine-related deaths jumping nearly 520%. In Washington, benzodiazepines increasingly appear in crime lab seizures as “street Xanax,” with novel designer benzos accounting for nearly 50% of all benzodiazepine cases in 2020.

These alarming trends reflect a larger national issue: alprazolam is the most commonly misused benzo, and benzodiazepines are involved in about 30% of U.S. prescription-drug overdose deaths, second only to opioids. In Washington, drug overdose deaths have more than doubled—from 14.1 to 28.1 per 100,000 residents between 2011 and 2021—with benzodiazepines often contributing to these fatalities.

These local and national statistics highlight an urgent need for dedicated, evidence-based rehab services. If Xanax misuse is affecting you or a loved one, especially in or near Ocean Park, Washington, Free by the Sea offers expert rehab for Xanax designed to guide individuals safely through detox and into long-term recovery.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Abuse?

Young woman opening up during a counseling session as part of rehab for Xanax.

Understanding how Xanax affects the mind and body is essential when determining if you or a loved one may need help. While this medication can be beneficial when used as prescribed, misuse can quickly lead to dependence and serious health risks. Below, we outline the most common signs of Xanax abuse, symptoms of addiction, and side effects to watch for—especially if you’re considering rehab for Xanax in Ocean Park, Washington, or the surrounding area.

Signs of Xanax Abuse

Recognizing the signs of Xanax abuse early can make a critical difference in preventing long-term addiction. Common behavioral signs include:

Taking Xanax in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed
Visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions (“doctor shopping”)
Avoiding responsibilities at work, school, or home
Isolating from family and friends
Using Xanax recreationally or to cope with stress

If you notice these signs in yourself or a loved one in Ocean Park, Washington, seeking professional help may be the next step toward recovery.

Symptoms of Xanax Addiction

When Xanax misuse progresses into addiction, the body and brain begin to rely on the drug to function. Common symptoms of Xanax addiction include:

Cravings for the drug
Increased tolerance, requiring higher doses to feel the same effects
Withdrawal symptoms when not using
Inability to stop despite wanting to quit
Risk-taking behaviors while under the influence

These symptoms often signal a deeper dependence that may require structured treatment at a Xanax rehab facility like Free by the Sea.

Side Effects of Xanax Use

Even when taken as prescribed, Xanax can cause a variety of short- and long-term side effects. These include:

Drowsiness and fatigue
Confusion or memory problems
Dizziness or loss of coordination
Blurred vision
Mood swings or irritability
Slurred speech

Long-term misuse can also lead to depression, cognitive decline, and increased risk of overdose, especially when combined with other substances such as alcohol. Seek professional dual diagnosis treatment in Ocean Park, Washington.

Withdrawal From Xanax Abuse

Withdrawal is the body’s reaction to the absence of a substance it has grown dependent on—in this case, Xanax. When someone uses Xanax regularly, the brain adjusts to its sedating effects. Once the drug is reduced or stopped, the central nervous system becomes overactive, leading to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous symptoms.

Common Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:

Anxiety and panic attacks
Insomnia or sleep disturbances
Tremors and muscle cramps
Nausea and vomiting
Seizures
Hallucinations or severe confusion
Tremors
Delirium
Seizures
Paranoia
Indigestion
Depression
Heart palpitations
Severe body aches

Because Xanax affects brain chemistry, withdrawal can be particularly intense and even life-threatening without medical supervision. That’s why a professional detox program is essential. At Free by the Sea in Ocean Park, Washington, we offer a medical detox program with 24/7 support to ensure safety, comfort, and a stable transition into further treatment.

If you or someone you care about is facing withdrawal, our rehab for Xanax treatment is here to help. You don’t have to face it alone.

Who Is At Risk for Xanax Abuse?

Therapist and client in active discussion during rehab for Xanax treatment.

Unfortunately, every person is at risk of drug addiction at the end of the day. It may come about from someone’s lowest moment or by total accident. One might think it could never affect them. Yet, they might find themselves among the millions of Americans with an anxiety disorder. Their doctor prescribes them Xanax, and the rest is history.

While anyone prescribed Xanax has the potential to misuse it, certain individuals are at higher risk for developing a dependence. Xanax abuse can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, but risk factors often include:

A personal or family history of substance abuse
Co-occurring mental health disorders like anxiety or depression
Long-term use or high-dose prescriptions
A history of trauma or chronic stress
Young adults or teens experimenting with prescription drugs

Xanax misuse may also be influenced by limited access to mental health resources, peer pressure, or self-medicating for untreated emotional pain. People who take Xanax without a prescription—or continue using it beyond medical guidelines—are especially vulnerable to addiction.

Understanding your risk is the first step toward prevention. If you or a loved one falls into any of these categories, seeking rehab for Xanax at a qualified rehab in Washington State can help prevent long-term harm.

Xanax Addiction Treatment

At Free by the Sea in Ocean Park, Washington, we provide a full continuum of care designed to address both the physical and psychological aspects of Xanax addiction and other substance use disorders (SUDs). Our serene coastal location and evidence-based programs offer individuals the structure and support they need to begin lasting recovery. Below are the key components of our treatment offerings:

Medically Supervised Detox

Detox is often the first step in overcoming Xanax dependence. Because benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous without medical care, we provide 24/7 supervision by licensed medical professionals. Our detox services prioritize safety, stabilization, and preparation for the next phase of treatment.

Residential Treatment Program

Our residential inpatient rehab program offers clients a safe and supportive environment where they can fully focus on recovery. With access to round-the-clock care, structured daily routines, and therapeutic activities, clients benefit from being immersed in an inpatient treatment setting, free from outside triggers and distractions.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

For individuals who don’t require 24-hour care but still need intensive support, our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) provides structured treatment during the day while allowing clients to return home or to transitional housing at night. This option balances accountability with flexibility and is ideal for those transitioning out of inpatient care.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is designed for clients who are ready to return to daily responsibilities but still need regular therapeutic support. IOP includes several sessions per week of individual counseling, group therapy, relapse prevention planning, and continued access to holistic care options.

Individual and Group Therapy

Addiction therapy with licensed therapists helps clients address the underlying emotional and psychological factors driving their substance use. In group therapy, individuals gain peer support, develop communication skills, and learn healthy coping mechanisms in a collaborative setting.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals who misuse Xanax also struggle with co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Our dual diagnosis program offers integrated care that treats both addiction and mental health issues simultaneously, leading to more effective and sustainable recovery outcomes.

Holistic & Experiential Therapies

Free by the Sea enhances traditional treatment with holistic therapies that support whole-person healing. These may include:

Yoga and meditation
Art and music therapy
Mindfulness-based stress reduction
Life skills training and goal setting

These modalities promote emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and help clients reconnect with themselves in meaningful ways.

Aftercare Planning

Recovery doesn’t end after treatment. That’s why we offer a personalized aftercare program, including referrals to support groups, continued therapy, and alumni programs. Our goal is to ensure each client leaves with the tools and support needed to maintain sobriety long-term.

If you’re seeking professional inpatient or outpatient treatment for Xanax addiction in Ocean Park, Washington, Free by the Sea is here for you. Begin your recovery journey in a setting that promotes healing, peace, and lasting change.

Choose Free By the Sea for Xanax Abuse Treatment in Washington and Oregon

Woman enjoying freedom and clarity after completing rehab for Xanax.

Overcoming Xanax addiction is challenging, but with the right support, recovery is possible. At Free by the Sea, we offer compassionate, comprehensive care for individuals throughout Washington, Oregon, and the Pacific Northwest. Our Xanax addiction treatment center in Ocean Park, Washington, provides a peaceful coastal environment where healing can truly begin.

Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, our team is here to guide you every step of the way—from safe detox and personalized therapy to long-term recovery planning. With a full continuum of care and a commitment to treating the whole person, Free by the Sea is a trusted choice for those ready to break free from addiction.

Take the first step toward lasting recovery. Contact us today to learn more about our rehab for Xanax addiction treatment.

References:

Dr. Richard Crabbe

Dr. Richard Crabbe joined our team in 2019 as our psychiatrist and medical director. He attended the University of Ghana Medical School where he became a Medical Doctor in 1977. From 1978 through 1984, he was a medical officer in the Ghana Navy and provided a variety of services from general medicine to surgeries. He received his Certificate in General Psychology from the American Board of Psychology and Neurology in 2002.

Insurances We Accept

Free by the Sea recognizes the importance of having insurance to receive addiction treatment. Let us work with you to provide you or a loved one with premier addiction treatment services. We accept several private insurance plans. Verify your rehab coverage with us today to ensure you receive the support that you need! Find out if you are covered today!