This fast-paced world can be too much at times, leading to anxiety, feelings of being overwhelmed, and fatigue. Many people try to relieve these symptoms with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other sedatives. Sadly, self-medication comes with a high risk for dependence and addiction, so it is crucial to enroll in a benzo addiction treatment program if you spot signs of benzo addiction.
If you or someone you know needs benzo addiction treatment, reach out to Ashwood Recovery. Our benzo rehab offers personalized treatment programs to help you get your life back from addiction. And not only will you kick your benzo addiction, but you will also learn how to better manage the life stressors and co-occurring disorders that contributed to your benzo use. Call us today at 888.341.3607 to learn more about how we can help you overcome benzodiazepine addiction.
What Are Benzos?
Benzodiazepines or benzos are sedative drugs prescribed to help people manage conditions like:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Seizures
The main feature of benzos is their ability to help you feel calm and relaxed. Many people with anxiety disorders keep benzos on hand in case of an anxiety attack. They may also use them in situations that are particularly anxiety-provoking for them, such as before getting on a plane.
Although benzos can help people with anxiety get through difficult situations without having a panic attack, these sedative drugs can also be highly addictive. A person can easily get used to the intense relaxation benzos provide, and since they may struggle to relax otherwise, they begin to use benzos more frequently. In some cases, they start to believe that they cannot function in many life situations without being under the influence of benzos.
What Are the Signs of Benzo Addiction?
If you or someone in your life is taking benzodiazepines to help manage a medical condition, it can be challenging to determine if your prescription use has slid into dependence or addiction. Unlike someone using benzos recreationally, you may think your usage still qualifies as prescribed by your doctor. So how do you know if you need benzo addiction treatment?
Be aware of the following signs of benzo addiction to let you know if you may need to consider professional help:
- Needing to take a higher dosage of benzos than prescribed to achieve the same sedating effects
- Experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if you try to stop using benzos
- Struggling at school or work due to benzo use
- Engaging in dangerous behaviors while under the influence of benzos, such as driving a car or operating machinery
- Participating in “doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions for benzos
Any of the above can indicate potential benzo addiction and suggest that a person be referred to benzo rehab for assessment.
Why Benzo Addiction Treatment Is Necessary
Some people may not understand the necessity of professional treatment for overcoming benzo addiction. However, sedative drugs can be challenging to quit, especially if a person does not have healthier methods for managing their anxiety. They may prefer the risk of benzo use over having a panic attack. Unfortunately, long-term benzo use can have consequences, such as:
- Worsening of anxiety symptoms
- Worsening of insomnia
- Difficulty breathing
- Headaches
- Memory loss
- Tremors
- Coma
Benzodiazepines can serve an important purpose and help people get through incredibly challenging times. However, long-term treatment through therapy and lifestyle changes are the key to safely and healthily managing stress, anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions interfering with your well-being.
Find Healing with Benzo Rehab at Ashwood Recovery
Benzo addiction no longer needs to control your life. If you notice signs of benzo addiction in yourself or a loved one, call Ashwood Recovery at 888.341.3607 today to get started on your road to recovery.