The Link Between Stress and Addiction

Everyone faces some level of stress in their lives, and we all respond to it differently. Some people turn to holistic therapies, such as meditation or yoga. Other people may turn to alcohol or drugs for temporary relief. However, this latter approach often leads to dependence and eventual addiction. There is also a connection between addiction and stress, where addiction can lead to increased stress. Consequently, when someone is struggling with stress and addiction, it is vital to address both conditions using evidence-based and holistic treatment modalities. 

Understanding Stress

According to the World Health Organization, stress is “a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.” Everyone experiences stress, a natural bodily response to various situations. Stress can be beneficial in helping people remain motivated and alert. However, when stress is constant without any break, it can lead to physical and mental issues. 

Common sources of stress can include:

• Work deadlines
• Excessive workloads
• Job insecurity
• Financial concerns
• Relationship issues
• Health issues
• Family problems
• Loss of a loved one
• Having a baby
• Getting married or divorced
• Moving
• Retirement 
• Lack of exercise
• Insufficient sleep
• Poor nutrition
• Major life changes
• Natural disasters

Physical and Mental Effects of Stress

When dealing with stress, the body triggers the “fight-or-flight” response system. This natural response helps us deal with stressful situations. However, prolonged stress that is not resolved can take its toll on the body physically and mentally. Some of the physical and mental effects of stress include:

• Irritability
• Weakened immune system
• Muscle pain and tension
• Body aches and pains
• Panic attacks
• Changes in appetite – overeating or not eating
• Digestive problems
• Anxiety
• High blood pressure
• Headaches
• Uncontrolled shaking
• Depression
• Chest pain
• Exhaustion
• Sexual dysfunction
• Weight loss or weight gain
• Insomnia
• Problems concentrating and focusing
• Substance use disorders
• Impulsivity 

The Link Between Stress and Addiction

When people do not have positive coping skills to deal with stress, it can lead to addiction. Some people may find temporary relief by drinking alcohol or using various drugs to alleviate stress. However, taking this approach can cause individuals to rely on alcohol or drugs to cope with their stress. Continued use can eventually lead to addiction. 

Conversely, there is also a link between addiction and stress. Substance use disorders can take their toll on personal finances and relationships, the ability to work, and cause medical and mental health programs. All of these things can lead to elevated and continued stress. 

Examples of Stress-induced Addiction

There are various types of stress-induced addictions one can develop when they are unable to cope with stress in a positive manner, as follows:

• Alcohol use disorder
• Opioid use disorder
• Benzo use disorder
• Cocaine use disorder
• Marijuana use disorder
• Gambling disorder
• Eating disorder

Aside from these addictions, some people can engage in various behaviors, such as compulsive sex or impulsive shopping. 

Examples of Addiction-induced Stress

Some common examples of addiction-induced stress are:

• Relationship stress: Addiction impacts and strains personal relationships, causes conflicts, and can lead to elevated stress. 
• Health stress: Physical and mental health issues can develop from the impacts substances have on the body, which can also increase stress levels. 
• Financial stress: People often experience financial instability because of the amount of money they are spending on their substance of choice. This can lead to added stress from not being able to afford housing, pay bills, or support one’s family. 
• Work stress: Substance use disorders can cause poor work performance, increased absenteeism, and conflicts with coworkers. This can lead to elevated stress from the fear of being fired, which further adds to financial stress. 
• Legal stress: Some people may have to face the legal consequences of their substance use disorders, such as driving under the influence or possession charges. People have to deal with legal problems on top of other added addiction-induced stress. 

How Addiction Exacerbates Stress

There is a cyclical relationship between stress and addiction, which starts when someone turns to substances as a temporary relief from stress. As a consequence, the body recalls the feelings of relief experienced when drinking or using drugs. Moreover, this can lead to cravings and continued substance use.

As someone continues to use substances to cope with stress, they sink further and further into addiction. Over time, addiction-induced stress intensifies.. As their body has developed tolerance to their preferred substance, they now have to use large amounts to achieve the desired stress relief. The cycle continues until they eventually realize they need help, or worse, they accidentally overdose and die.  

Over the years, there have been numerous case studies on the stress and addiction cycle. In one study, it was found those who experienced adverse childhood experiences had decreased dopamine functioning. Dopamine is a response for regulating moods, pleasure, and managing stress. Turning to substances as a coping mechanism only makes things worse. 

Another study examined how stress could lead to addiction and addiction could lead to altered stress responses and cravings associated with substance use disorders. The study also examined how stress after addiction treatment could contribute to relapse. 

Stress Management and Addiction Recovery

Part of a comprehensive addiction recovery plan includes effective stress management techniques. They are often learned through various holistic therapies, including:

• Meditation: Meditation helps focus the mind while reducing stress and increasing calmness and mental clarity. 
• Mindfulness: Mindfulness helps people pay attention to their emotions, thoughts, and feelings in the present moment to help them better identify elevated stress levels. 
• Yoga: Yoga helps release tension and stress using various poses, stretches, and breathing and relaxation techniques. 
• Breathing exercises: Deep breathing exercises can help address stress and help the body relax to release it. 
• Nutrition counseling: Proper nutrition contributes to improved physical and mental well-being and effective stress management. 
• Exercise: Regular exercise can trigger the release of endorphins that can reduce stress while improving mood, energy levels, and sleep quality. 
• Group support: Group support provides opportunities to learn new stress management techniques from others. 
• Individual therapy: Individual therapy helps people uncover the root causes of their stress and develop effective coping strategies to avoid relapse. 

Treatment Options at Phoenix Rising Recovery

Phoenix Rising Recovery in Palm Springs, California, offers comprehensive treatment programs for stress-related addiction. Our programs are personalized to fit the specific needs of our clients and include:

• Substance use detox: We help people safely detox from substances with medically monitored detox treatment.
• Substance use disorder treatment: We offer different levels of care, including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient, outpatient, and aftercare. Moreover, our programs are designed to help people manage stress while maintaining their newly found sobriety.
• Medication-assisted treatment: We utilize various FDA-approved medications to address and manage withdrawal symptoms, carvings, and stress.

We also offer specific programming for various populations, including:

• Resilient star veterans program
• Gender-specific treatment
• Women’s program
• Age-specific treatment
• LGBTQIA+ specific programming
• Programs for working professionals

Begin Stress and Addiction Treatment for a Brighter Future Today

At Phoenix Rising Recovery, our stress and addiction treatment programs teach you how to manage stress positively without turning to substances. Our caring and compassionate team is ready to help you break free from substance use and regain control over your life. Contact us now to discover how to alleviate stress and achieve a brighter, substance-free future. 

Published: 3/4/2025