Benzodiazepines are prescription medications developed to help mitigate symptoms of medical conditions, including anxiety and insomnia. Commonly referred to as “benzos,” they are some of the most frequently prescribed medications in the nation. Because of their mood- and mind-altering effects, benzos are commonly taken recreationally and have a high potential for abuse and addiction.
Withdrawal from benzos is complex and dangerous, particularly when alcohol or other drugs are in your system. The safest way to overcome benzo abuse or addiction is through a benzo addiction treatment center. Evoke Wellness at Cohasset offers a medically supervised benzo detox and comprehensive benzodiazepine addiction treatment. When you are ready to regain control of your life, we are here to help. Call 866.931.6429 to learn about our programs.
Signs of Benzo Abuse
Although benzos help millions of people have a better quality of life when used properly, they carry a risk for dependency or addiction. Unfortunately, many people, especially in the 18 to 25 age range, purposefully abuse benzos, knowingly putting themselves at risk. Many are unaware of the dangers of benzos, especially when mixed with alcohol.
Common signs of benzo abuse include the following:
- Taking them without a prescription
- Taking them more often or in higher doses than prescribed
- Difficulty controlling the use of benzos or unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop using them
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking them
- Spending a lot of time thinking about, obtaining, and using benzos
- Experiencing social, financial, or legal problems related to benzo use
- Acting impulsively or engaging in risky behaviors while using them
- Failure to maintain home, work, or school obligations
- Cravings, urges, or desire to use, despite harmful consequences
If you or a loved one abuses benzos, seeking treatment can be life-saving. Abruptly quitting benzos can be dangerous, so seeking help from a professional medical detox is always recommended.
What Are Common Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms?
Benzo withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly depending upon a person’s physiology, dosage, duration of use, and the presence of other substances in the system. However, the following withdrawal symptoms are common with benzos:
- Anxiety and panic attacks accompanied by irritability, restlessness, and a sense of impending doom
- Sleep disturbances, including difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Gastrointestinal problems, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Muscle tension and aches
- Profuse sweating and chills
- Tremors and shaking
- Rapid heartbeat and palpitations
- Cognitive disturbances, including confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory loss, or brain fog
- Seizures
Benzo withdrawal can be severe and even life-threatening if not managed properly. This is particularly true for individuals who abruptly stop using benzos after long-term use.
The Benefits of Detox for Benzos
Detox is the process of eliminating a substance from the body. Because of the dangers of benzo detox, it is always best to do so under the guidance of medical professionals. The most significant benefit of a medically supervised detox is safety. Medical professionals can provide appropriate monitoring and interventions to ensure patients detox as safely and comfortably as possible.
Other benefits of medically supervised detox include the following:
- Reduced withdrawal symptoms
- A tailored plan that addresses a patient’s specific needs and circumstances
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) where necessary
- Psychological support
- Gradual tapering for a safer detox
- A controlled environment reduces the risk of relapse
- Proper nutrition and hydration
- Restoration of physical health
Attending a medically supervised detox also helps lay the foundation for recovery. Completing detox is the first step on the road to recovery and needs to be followed by comprehensive treatment for addiction and co-occurring disorders.
Learn More About Benzo Addiction Treatment at Evoke Wellness at Cohasset
Recovery from benzo addiction requires the help of professional addiction treatment specialists like those at Evoke Wellness at Cohasset. Starting with a medically supervised detox program is essential when seeking benzo treatment. Withdrawal from benzos can cause dangerous adverse reactions. Having alcohol or other drugs in your system can increase the risks of severe withdrawal symptoms.
We know that recovery is possible. Whether you are looking for facts about benzos or are ready to begin your recovery journey, we can help. Call 866.931.6429 to learn more or fill out our online form.
