Xanax addiction is a growing concern in Tennessee and across the country. What often begins as a legitimate prescription for anxiety or panic disorders can quickly spiral into dependence. Because Xanax works so quickly and effectively to calm the mind, many people don’t realize how addictive it can be—until they find themselves unable to function without it.
If you’re struggling to stop or wondering whether your use has crossed the line into addiction, help is available. At Tulip Hill Recovery, we provide compassionate, trauma-informed Xanax addiction treatment in Murfreesboro designed to meet you where you are.
Our approach blends evidence-based therapies with holistic healing to treat the whole person—mind, body, and spirit.
We understand the unique challenges that come with benzodiazepine addiction and offer a safe, supportive environment for recovery. Whether you’ve been misusing Xanax for months or years, recovery is always possible—and it starts with the right care and support system.
If you’re questioning your relationship with Xanax, read more in our guide: How Do I Know if I Am Addicted to Xanax?
At Tulip Hill Recovery, you’re not just a patient—you’re a person. We’re here to help you reclaim your life.
Is Xanax Addictive?
Because of how quickly it acts, Xanax provides near-instant relief for people experiencing overwhelming anxiety or panic.
However, this short-acting nature is also what makes it so addictive. The brain begins to crave that fast-acting calm, and before long, users may feel like they need Xanax just to get through the day.
Even when taken exactly as prescribed, individuals can develop tolerance—meaning they need higher doses to get the same effect—and dependence, where stopping the medication leads to withdrawal symptoms.
Many people don’t realize how quickly Xanax can lead to both physical and psychological dependence. What starts as a solution for anxiety can become a daily requirement for functioning, often leading individuals to take more than prescribed or seek it through non-medical means.
The cycle of use, tolerance, and withdrawal is difficult to break without professional help.
Over time, chronic use of Xanax can alter brain chemistry, making recovery feel even more daunting.
That’s why expert care is so important.
If you’re wondering whether long-term use has affected your brain health, you can learn more here: Can Your Brain Recover From Xanax?
Understanding how Xanax works and why it’s addictive is the first step toward healing, and Tulip Hill Recovery is here to guide you through every phase of that journey.
Risk Factors for Xanax Addiction
Xanax is often sold illegally and referred to by a variety of street names, especially among younger users. Common slang includes Zbars, school bus, ladders, footballs, bicycle handlebars, benzos, chill pills, blues, Hulks, and planks.
These nicknames usually reference the shape, color, or dose of the pill. While slang may make the drug sound harmless, the risks of recreational Xanax use are anything but.
Xanax is frequently misused to amplify the effects of alcohol or marijuana, or to come down from stimulants like Adderall or cocaine, often in dangerous combinations called speedballs.
Mixing Xanax with other substances significantly increases the risk of overdose, respiratory depression, and even death.
Even more alarming is the rise in counterfeit Xanax on the street market.
These fake pills often contain unknown ingredients and are sometimes laced with deadly opioids like fentanyl, making them especially hazardous. One pill can be fatal.
Because of these risks, seeking professional Xanax addiction treatment in Murfreesboro is critical. At Tulip Hill Recovery, we offer medically supervised detox and individualized care to help you safely and effectively overcome benzo addiction before it turns deadly.
Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
Xanax addiction can develop quickly and quietly, often going unnoticed until it begins to seriously disrupt a person’s daily life. Because it’s commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, people may not immediately recognize the warning signs of dependence.
At Tulip Hill Recovery, we help individuals and families recognize the symptoms early and provide compassionate care at every stage of addiction.
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Physical Signs of Xanax Addiction
- Drowsiness or excessive sleep
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination or balance
- Dizziness and confusion
- Memory problems
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Behavioral Signs of Xanax Addiction
- Increased tolerance, needing higher doses to feel calm or relaxed
- Cravings and compulsive use, even when trying to stop
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Doctor shopping or seeking pills from non-medical sources
- Risky behaviors (e.g., driving under the influence or combining Xanax with other drugs)
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Emotional and Cognitive Warning Signs
- Irritability, mood swings, or heightened anxiety
- Depression and withdrawal from loved ones
- Using Xanax to cope with stress or emotional discomfort
- Fear or panic when unable to access the drug
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Polysubstance Abuse
Over time, these signs can escalate into full-blown addiction, making it difficult to function without Xanax. Many individuals also turn to other substances, such as alcohol or opioids, which significantly increases the risk of overdose.
The longer crystal meth abuse continues, the harder it becomes to repair the physical, emotional, and social damage.
That’s why early intervention is so critical. At Tulip Hill Recovery, our methamphetamine addiction treatment in Murfreesboro provides a safe, structured environment where healing and true recovery can begin.
Timeline and Stages of Xanax Withdrawal
Withdrawing from Xanax can be an intense and dangerous experience, especially for those who have used the drug for an extended period or in high doses.
Because Xanax affects the central nervous system, suddenly stopping use can trigger a rebound of overwhelming symptoms that could become life-threatening without proper medical support.
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First 24–48 Hours: Acute Onset of Symptoms
Symptoms often begin within hours of the last dose due to Xanax’s short half-life. Early withdrawal typically includes:
- Rising anxiety or panic
- Insomnia or restlessness
- Irritability
- Rapid heartbeat
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, or touch
For individuals using high doses, this early stage may also bring early signs of rebound anxiety or agitation.
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Days 3–7: Symptoms Peak
Withdrawal usually peaks during this period and can be intense. People may experience:
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or spasms
- Sweating and shaking
- Nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort
- Heightened irritability or mood swings
- Confusion, memory issues, or cognitive fog
- Risk of seizures
- Hallucinations or psychosis in severe cases
This is the stage where medical detox is most critical for safety.
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Weeks 2–4: Subacute Withdrawal
As the body slowly adjusts, physical symptoms may decrease, but emotional and neurological symptoms often remain. These may include:
- Ongoing anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Depression or emotional instability
- Persistent irritability
- Cravings for Xanax or other benzodiazepines
- Trouble concentrating
Energy levels may begin to improve, but mood and cognition can still fluctuate.
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After 1 Month: Protracted Withdrawal (PAWS)
For some individuals—especially those who used Xanax long-term—Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) can last for months. Symptoms may include:
- Ongoing anxiety or “rebound anxiety.”
- Low mood or depression
- Cognitive difficulties
- Trouble feeling pleasure (anhedonia)
- Sleep disturbances
- Intermittent cravings
While many physical symptoms improve after the first month, emotional and cognitive healing often requires continued therapy and support.
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Common Symptoms of Xanax Withdrawal
Every person’s experience varies based on dose, duration, co-occurring conditions, and whether the drug was stopped abruptly. However, common symptoms include:
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Irritability and mood swings
- Intense cravings for Xanax
- Depression or hopelessness
- Tremors or shakiness
- Muscle pain, stiffness, or spasms
- Sweating or chills
- Cognitive fog or difficulty concentrating
- Heightened sensory sensitivity (light, sound)
- Nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort
- Hallucinations or delusions (in severe cases)
- Seizures (life-threatening and require emergency care)
Levels of Care + Dual Diagnosis and Co-Occurring Disorders
At Tulip Hill Recovery, our Xanax addiction treatment in Murfreesboro is built around a holistic, evidence-based approach that addresses all aspects of recovery. Here’s what clients can expect:
Drug Detox
At Tulip Hill Recovery, we offer compassionate, medically supervised drug detox in Murfreesboro, TN, designed to help you begin your healing journey safely and confidently.
As a trusted drug and alcohol detox center serving Murfreesboro and the broader Middle Tennessee community, Tulip Hill Recovery provides individualized, evidence-based care in a peaceful, supportive setting.
Our detox programs address your specific needs and are backed by a clinical team that understands how to navigate addiction and mental health and the many complexities they bring.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
A Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) is an intensive form of outpatient treatment that provides the clinical support of inpatient rehab without requiring a residential stay.
Designed for individuals who need a high level of care but are stable enough to live at home or in a sober living environment, PHP bridges the gap between inpatient treatment and traditional outpatient therapy.
At Tulip Hill Recovery, our PHP rehab in Murfreesboro typically runs 5 to 6 days per week and offers 30+ hours of therapy.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
At Tulip Hill Recovery, our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Murfreesboro is designed to bridge the gap between inpatient treatment and full independence.
IOP provides the structure and accountability necessary for early recovery, while still giving you the flexibility to live at home or in a sober living environment, work, attend school, and rebuild your life outside of treatment.
Whether you’re stepping down from a PHP rehab program or starting outpatient care for the first time, our Murfreesboro IOP offers comprehensive support, personalized care, and a strong community to help you achieve lasting success.
Addiction Treatment Aftercare
An aftercare rehab program is a follow-up plan that helps you stay on track after completing formal addiction treatment for a substance use disorder and any co-occurring disorders.
It’s not just a final step—it’s a continuation of care that helps you stay grounded and supported in early recovery.
With our addiction aftercare programs, paired with our proven treatment methods, you gain practical tools and ongoing check-ins that help you stay strong and avoid relapse.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
As a leading dual diagnosis treatment center in Tennessee, we specialize in integrated care that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms.
Whether you’re dealing with depression and alcohol use, PTSD and benzodiazepine dependence, or another combination, we’re here to support you.
Our approach to dual diagnosis treatment is grounded in compassion, science, and personal experience.
We provide a safe space to uncover what’s really driving addiction, and we help our clients build the tools they need to recover from both.
Specialized Services
- Trauma Treatment: Many individuals with dual diagnosis have experienced trauma, which can play a significant role in both mental health issues and addiction. Our trauma treatment program is designed to address the underlying pain, helping you heal and move forward in your recovery journey.
- 12-Step Program: The 12-Step Program is a time-tested approach to recovery that provides a strong foundation for lasting sobriety. At Tulip Hill Recovery, we incorporate the 12 steps into our treatment plans, offering support and guidance as you work through each stage of recovery.
- Individual, Group, and Family Therapy: Therapy is a cornerstone of dual diagnosis treatment. We offer a range of therapeutic options, including individual therapy to focus on your personal challenges, group therapy to connect with others who share similar experiences, and family therapy to rebuild and strengthen relationships.
- Holistic Treatment: We believe in treating the whole person, not just the symptoms of their condition. Our holistic approach includes therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, and nutritional counseling, which support both your mental and physical well-being.
Related Blog Resources
At Tulip Hill Recovery, we believe that education is a powerful tool in recovery. To help you better understand the effects of drug addiction and the path to healing, we’ve created several in-depth resources you can explore:
Start Xanax Rehab today at Tulip Hill Recovery
Recovering from Alprazolam addiction isn’t easy — but with the right support, it’s absolutely possible. At Tulip Hill Recovery, we offer holistic, individualized care that addresses every part of the healing process: physical detox, emotional recovery, relapse prevention, and rebuilding a strong foundation for long-term sobriety.
Our benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Murfreesboro is built around evidence-based therapies, trauma-informed care, and a compassionate team. We don’t just treat symptoms — we help individuals rediscover hope, rebuild relationships, and reclaim their futures.
If you or someone you love is ready to break free from the cycle of Xanax addiction, contact Tulip Hill Recovery today. Healing starts with one brave step — and we’re here to walk it with you.
Frequently Asked Questions — Xanax / Alprazolam Addiction & Rehab
Xanax is the brand name for the drug Alprazolam. It belongs to the class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by increasing the activity of a calming neurotransmitter in the brain, which slows down certain brain activities and helps reduce the intensity of anxiety and panic.
It is prescribed primarily for treating anxiety disorders and panic disorders, sometimes including anxiety related to depression.
When prescribed, Xanax should be taken exactly as directed by a healthcare provider — in the correct dose, frequency, and duration.
Because of its effects on the central nervous system (CNS depressant), it should be used with caution and monitoring.
Yes. Alprazolam (Xanax) can lead to physical dependence and misuse — especially with prolonged use. Even when taken as prescribed, dependence can develop over time.
Because Xanax is a CNS depressant, taking it — especially with other sedating substances (like alcohol, opioids, or other depressants) — can cause severe drowsiness, slowed or stopped breathing (respiratory depression), coma, or even death.
Long-term or improper use increases risks of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, memory issues, cognitive decline, and other health complications.
Stopping Xanax — especially abruptly (“cold turkey”) — can lead to withdrawal symptoms. These may include anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, sweating, tremors, muscle spasms, rapid heart rate, and, in more severe cases, seizures or hallucinations.
Because Xanax acts on brain chemistry, the brain needs time to readjust, which is why a gradual taper under medical supervision is much safer than abrupt cessation.
Its calming, sedative, and anxiety-relieving effects can make it appealing — especially to individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, panic, or emotional distress.
Because Xanax works fast and often produces noticeable relief quickly, some people may misuse it for “self-medication,” to escape intense emotions, or to cope with pressure — which increases the risk of dependence, misuse, and overdose (especially when combined with other substances).
Treatment often begins with a medically supervised detox or tapering plan — a gradual reduction of Alprazolam under professional supervision to avoid dangerous withdrawal symptoms (such as seizures).
After detox, ongoing therapy (individual or group), mental health counseling, relapse-prevention, coping skills training, and supportive aftercare are typically recommended to build long-term recovery and address underlying mental health or stress issues.
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We understand addiction affects the whole family. Our comprehensive family program helps rebuild trust and restore relationships.
Weekly Family Therapy Sessions
Educational Workshops
Support Groups
Communication Skills Training