Benzodiazepines Addiction

What Causes Benzo Addiction?

Benzos are prescribed for anxiety disorders, insomnia or sleep disorders, panic disorders, and epilepsy. These medications are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. Common brand names include:

• Valium
• Xanax
• Ativan
• Restoril
• Klonopin

So, why are these types of drugs so addictive? Benzos stimulate GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) production in the brain. Known for its calming effects, GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter—meaning it blocks chemical messengers and decreases neural activity in the brain. 

When misused or used in the long term, you can develop a dependency and tolerance to benzodiazepines. This means that it takes a higher dosage to achieve the same effects. It also means that withdrawal symptoms arise when discontinuing the use of the medication.

Most often, a benzo addiction happens when you take your medications in a different way compared to what your doctor advised. This is more common in individuals who may be dealing with grief, trauma, financial stress, or other mental health issues. 

The good news is that recovery is possible. At Freedom Recovery Centers (FRC), our caring and compassionate team can help you overcome addiction—one step at a time. We address the root causes of addiction, ensuring you have the best chance at making a full and lasting recovery. 

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Symptoms of a Benzo Addiction

While benzos have a calming effect, they also give way to various symptoms when these drugs are abused. Common symptoms of benzo abuse and addiction include:

• Doctor shopping
• Wanting to reduce use but being unable to
• Drowsiness
• Weakness
• Poor decision-making
• Blurred vision
• Mood fluctuations
• Partaking in more risky behavior
• Mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol or other drugs

The most dangerous risk is overdosing on benzos (which is rare) or mixing benzos with alcohol, which can be fatal. Long-term impacts may further include increasing anxiety, insomnia, depression, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, memory issues, headaches, and seizures.

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Treatment for a Benzo Addiction

At FRC, we believe in a holistic and evidence-based approach for lasting and sustainable recovery. While each person has a treatment plan tailored to individual needs, your program may include:

Medically-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

The most effective and safe way to overcome a benzo addiction is by gradually reducing the dosage. This tapering off can also prevent withdrawal symptoms, like seizures. However, the duration of this may vary depending on the severity of your addiction. For some people, this tapering-off phase can take place over 10 weeks. 

Behavioral Therapy

At FRC, we strive to address the underlying issues driving your addiction. This is why we include behavioral and talk therapies in your treatment plan. These therapies can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms and may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)
• Anger Management
• Motivational Interviewing‍

Group Therapy & Community Support

You don’t have to do this alone. We offer group sessions and activities to foster a sense of belonging and community at our rehab center in Richmond, Virginia. This can help you feel less alone, as well as offer support as you navigate your sobriety.

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Why Choose Freedom Recovery Centers

At FRC, we strive to go above and beyond. We aren’t just another rehab “facility.” We understand how overwhelming and scary rehab and recovery can sound. But we’re here to guide you through every step of the way.

Our rehab center in Richmond, Virginia, provides nutritious and delicious food, comfortable beds, a nail studio, a massage clinic, basketball courts, and more! Together, we can help you lead a vibrant, healthy, and happy life. Whenever you’re ready, our team is here to answer your call 24/7 and provide transportation to our center. Begin paving your way toward a life where addiction doesn’t hold you back!

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Take the First Step Today

Your recovery starts with taking one initial step. It’s entirely possible to make a full recovery from a benzo addiction. Call us at 804-635-3746 to begin your journey today!

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FAQs

Are benzodiazepines safe?

Benzos are considered safe when taken as prescribed by your doctor or for short durations. They are more likely to be addictive when misused or used for longer durations.

How common is benzodiazepine addiction?

Benzodiazepines are some of the most commonly abused drugs. However, the good news is that recovery is possible with the right support and help.

How do you treat benzodiazepine dependence?

A benzo dependence is treated by tapering off the drug, as well as through behavioral therapies—particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Typically, a combination of approaches is used to address your addiction from every angle. However, your exact treatment plan will depend on the severity of your addiction or dependence.

Are benzos hard to get off of?

Withdrawal from benzos can be very difficult. This is why tapering off is often the go-to strategy for discontinuing long-term use and helping minimize withdrawal symptoms.