Stress and addiction

Stress is like a pressure cooker, and it can sometimes build so quietly that you don’t realise how much heat you’re under until it’s about to explode. For many, drugs and alcohol become a way to release that pressure, a quick fix to numb the anxiety and tension that won’t go away. But what starts as a temporary escape can quickly spiral into addiction, and this only ramps up the pressure. At Oasis Runcorn, we understand how stress and addiction are often intertwined, feeding off each other ravenously. We offer a space where you can find healthier ways to manage stress, regain control and find life-changing peace.

What is stress?

Stress is your body’s natural response to challenges or demands. It is what kicks in when you are under pressure, whether it’s from work, relationships, or just dealing with your everyday problems. Stress isn’t always bad – a little bit of stress can help you stay focused and motivated. But when stress becomes overwhelming or sticks around for too long, it can start to take a toll on your physical and mental health.

Stress is linked to the chemical cortisol. This is the hormone your body releases when it senses a threat or challenge, preparing you to either fight or flee. In short bursts, cortisol can give you the energy and focus you need to tackle whatever is in front of you. But when your body keeps pumping out cortisol over long periods, that is when chronic stress can become a debilitating problem.

What is chronic stress?

Chronic stress is when that feeling of being under pressure doesn’t go away. Instead of facing short bursts of stress, you find yourself dealing with it day in and day out.

Over time, chronic stress can wear you down, making it harder to function and enjoy life. It can affect your immune system, increase your risk of heart disease and lead to mental health issues like depression or anxiety.

In one survey, 74% of adults in the UK were so stressed at least once a year that they couldn’t cope or felt overwhelmed. The same survey found that stress had caused suicidal thoughts in 32% of adults, with 16% self-harming because of stress.

These figures show just how dangerous stress can be, particularly when it rises to chronic stress that goes untreated.

What are the most harmful symptoms of stress?

Chronic stress can seriously start to wear you down, leading to both short-term and long-term health problems. Some of the most troublesome include:

Short-term stress symptoms

• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating
• Tense muscles
• Upset stomach
• Anxiety
• Irritability

These short-term stress symptoms usually go away once the stressful situation is over. However, if the causes of stress go unresolved, it can lead to more serious problems.

Chronic stress symptoms

When stress becomes a constant part of your life, your body stays on high alert, which can lead to more serious health issues over time. Long-term stress might cause:

• Constant fatigue
• Sleep Problems
• Constant headaches or migraines
• Weakened immune system
• Anxiety, depression and other mental health problems
• High blood pressure and increased risk of heart problems

What is the relationship between stress and addiction?

When stress starts to feel like a constant weight on your shoulders, it can push you toward dangerous coping mechanisms. Whether it’s reaching for a drink to unwind after a tough day or turning to drugs to numb the anxiety, the temporary relief that they provide can quickly turn into a crutch.

The problem is that when substances become your only way to cope, you are not actually dealing with the root causes of the stress. Instead, the developing addiction can lead to even more stress, whether it’s from health issues, strained relationships or financial troubles. Over time, this creates a vicious cycle where stress drives you to substance use, and the consequences create even more stress. When there is both a co-occurring mental health and addiction issue, it is known as a dual diagnosis.

Research shows that stress is a major factor in both the development of addiction and in triggering relapses for those in recovery. Chronic stress, in particular, changes the way your brain works, making it harder to resist cravings and easier to fall back into old habits. This is why it is so important to addiction while also targeting the causes of stress.

What does stress and addiction treatment look like?

At Oasis Runcorn, we understand how tightly stress and addiction are connected. That’s why our rehab treatment focuses on helping you develop healthier ways to manage stress so you don’t have to rely on substances to get through the day.

Here is how we can help:

Group therapy

Think of group therapy as your stress relief squad. You’ll connect with others who know what it’s like to carry the weight of the world on their shoulders. In these sessions, you’ll share your journey, learn stress-busting techniques and build a support system that makes those tough days a little bit easier.

One-on-one counselling

When it feels like stress and addiction are calling the shots, one-on-one counselling is your chance to take back control. You will work closely with a therapist who understands how these two challenges feed into each other, develop healthier coping strategies and start feeling like yourself again.

Behavioural therapy

Stress can twist your thoughts and fuel your addiction, making a recovery feel out of reach. CBT and DBT are here to help you straighten things out. These therapies teach you how to tackle those stress-induced thoughts head-on and give you the tools to handle life’s challenges without needing drugs or alcohol.

Family therapy

Stress and addiction can strain your relationships to the breaking point. Family therapy is a space where you can start mending those bonds. It will help you all open up, understand each other’s struggles and find a path forward as a family. When everyone is on the same page, it is easier to support each other through tough times.

Holistic therapies

Stress doesn’t just mess with your mind – it hits your body and spirit hard, too. Our holistic therapies are all about helping you find balance. Meditation, yoga, sound and art therapy help you unwind, recharge and build the resilience you need for recovery.

Further support after rehab

Leaving rehab doesn’t mean that you are now on your own. We stay connected with you, offering an exclusive Alumni Network, plans for relapse prevention and weekly group therapy to keep you grounded. Whether you are dealing with a rough day or just need to talk, we’re here to help you navigate life beyond rehab with the tools and confidence you have gained.

Get help for stress and addiction today

Tired of feeling like stress and addiction are running the show? It’s time to take back control. We offer the tools and support you need to build a balanced, fulfilling life. Connect with us today to embark on the path to peace and start your transformation.

Frequently Asked Questions