Addiction Treatment

Lyndal, If your son is diagnosed with an Anxiety Disorder and has been prescribed medication to manage his symptoms, he should continue to take these meds. If he has not been prescribed meds, I highly recommend that he consult a psychiatrist for an evaluation. The psychiatrist will determine whether medication is necessary. The psychiatrist should be informed that he may be drinking, as mixing prescription medications with alcohol is extremely dangerous. It may also be helpful for your son to see a therapist who specializes in treating anxiety disorders, so that he can learn some practical skills to manage his anxiety. Short-term therapy can be very effective for treating anxiety. If he requires another rehab facility, you should look for one that specializes in treating dual diagnosis.

I think it is wonderful that she is doing well and wants to continue to move forward with her life plan (and that she has a mother who is so supportive and caring). A change in environment, like going to college, is stressful for most people, particularly those who are prone to addiction. So, it is really important that she have some professional supportive services to help her through the process, such as an individual therapist who is aware of her history. Also, most college campuses have counseling services for students and I would recommend a college that has a support group specific to addiction and eating disorders, that she can join.