Benzodiazepine Addiction Recovery
Understanding Benzodiazepine Addiction
Benzodiazepines, often called “benzos”, are commonly prescribed medications for anxiety, insomnia, panic attacks, muscle spasms, and seizure disorders. Drugs such as Xanax, Halcion, and Valium can provide meaningful relief when used as prescribed. But over time, the brain can become dependent on these medications, even when following directions exactly.
At Faithland Recovery Center, we help individuals safely recover from benzodiazepine addiction and begin healing the deeper emotional, psychological, and physical challenges that may have led to long-term use or dependency. Recovery is absolutely possible, and you don’t have to go through this alone or watch a loved one struggle.
What Are Benzodiazepines and How Do They Work?
Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants (CNDs) that work by slowing down activity in your brain and nervous system. This calming effect is what makes them helpful for reducing anxiety, easing panic attacks, supporting sleep, or controlling seizures.
Common benzodiazepines include:
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
- Estazolam (ProSom)
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants also include Non-Benzodiazepine Sleep Medications and Barbiturates, such as:
- Zolpidem (Ambien)
- Eszopiclone (Lunesta)
- Zaleplon (Sonata)
- Pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal)
- Mephobarbital (Mebaral)
- Phenobarbital (Luminal Sodium)
According to the Cleveland Clinic, these medications are effective in the short term, but long-term use increases the risk of dependence, tolerance (needing higher doses), and withdrawal symptoms.
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How Benzodiazepine Dependence Develops
Dependence on benzodiazepines often happens gradually. Many people begin with a legitimate prescription for anxiety or sleep difficulties, without realising that the brain can adapt after even a few weeks of regular use.
Tolerance and Physical Dependence
With extended use, the brain becomes used to the medication. This leads to:
- Needing higher or more frequent doses
- Feeling “off,” unwell, or unusually anxious without the medication.
- Physical withdrawal symptoms when a dose is missed, such as nausea, shaking, or sleep disturbances.
Psychological Dependence
It’s very common that when tolerance builds, the medication may feel necessary just to make it through the day. People often report that they take benzos “just to feel normal.”
Unintentional Misuse
Most benzodiazepine addiction is not linked to recreational misuse. It more often comes from:
- Stressful life events
- Chronic anxiety or panic
- Insomnia
- Trauma or unresolved emotional pain
- Fear of withdrawal symptoms
For many, dependence feels like a trap. They want to stop, but are unable to do so without withdrawal symptoms or on their own. Faithland offers compassionate, clinically guided support to ensure safety throughout the recovery process.
Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Addiction
Recognizing symptoms early in yourself or loved ones can help prevent dangerous complications. Common signs of dependence include:
Physical Symptoms
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Dizziness
- Memory problems
- Slowed reaction times
- Withdrawal symptoms (shaking, anxiety, nausea, heart palpitations)
- Needing larger doses for the same effect
Emotional & Cognitive Symptoms
- Increased anxiety, especially between doses
- Mood swings
- Difficulty focusing or thinking clearly
- Depression
- Feeling unable to cope without the medication
Behavioral Signs
- Running out of medication early
- Doctor-shopping or seeking multiple prescriptions
- Hiding the number of pills they are taking from others
- Using benzos to “take the edge off” stress or sleep problems
When someone feels unable to stop or struggles to reduce the dose without withdrawal symptoms, it’s a clear sign they need professional help.
Worried About Yourself or a Loved One?
The Risks of Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use
Long-term benzodiazepine use can affect nearly every system of the mind and body.
Cognitive & Emotional Impacts
- Memory impairment
- Slowed thinking
- Emotional numbness
- Difficulty processing stress
- Worsening depression or anxiety over time
Increased Medical Risks
- Balance problems or falls
- Increased sensitivity to other medications
- Hormonal and sleep disturbances
- Increased risk of motor-vehicle accidents
Dangerous Interactions
When combined with alcohol, opioids, or other sedatives, benzodiazepines can slow breathing to dangerous levels. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse, these combinations significantly increase the risk of a life-threatening overdose.
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Requires Medical Supervision
Why? Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly, by going “cold turkey”, can be dangerous and, in rare cases, life-threatening. Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Severe anxiety
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Nausea and vomiting
- Panic attacks
- Irritability
- Perceptual distortions
- Seizures
At Faithland Recovery Center, we provide safe, evidence-based support to empower you to move safely through the recovery process.
Treatment for Benzodiazepine Addiction
Our approach addresses both the physical challenges of withdrawal and the underlying emotional roots of benzodiazepine dependence. Treatment often includes a combination of the following:
1. Medical Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT combines FDA-approved medications with individualized tapering plans, counseling, and behavioral therapies to offer a comprehensive approach that supports both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction recovery.
2. Outpatient Treatment at Faithland
- Outpatient treatment is designed for people who may not need or do not prefer residential care.
- It includes individual counselling, customized therapy sessions, and support tailored to help people overcome substance misuse.
- The program is suitable for people who have adequate emotional stability, a stable living environment (or supportive sober living housing), motivation to engage in therapy, and some level of control over cravings
- Faithland offers a continuum of outpatient care, adapted to different needs and recovery stages: mild (OP), moderate (IOP) and intensive support (PHP, similar to inpatient programs)
3. Virtual Intensive Outpatient Therapy (VIOP)
Virtual IOP (VIOP) delivers intensive addiction treatment online through secure video sessions such as Zoom and digital tools, making it easier to stay engaged in recovery from the comfort of home. It’s a flexible option for those needing strong, high-quality clinical support while continuing to manage work, school, or family responsibilities.
4. Residential Treatment Programs (External)
Residential Treatment Programs are more intensive, providing 24/7 clinical care and support in a structured, supportive environment. They offer daily therapy, medication management, and holistic services. Residential care is ideal for people needing a stable, immersive setting to address substance use, mental health conditions, or both without having to cope with the challenges of everyday life.
Talk to us about what treatment program option might be right for you.
It is common for individuals who develop dependence on benzodiazepines to experience underlying issues, such as:
- Anxiety
- Panic disorder
- Depression
- PTSD
- Trauma
- Insomnia
For long-term recovery to be sustained, treating these conditions is essential to getting people back on track.
6. Evidence-Based Therapies
Faithland incorporates research-backed therapies into recovery programs, including:
- Mindfulness-based Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Trauma-focused Therapies
These therapies support emotional regulation, helping people navigate life’s challenges and anxiety without medication while building new coping strategies.
Recovery Starts with One Compassionate Conversation
Recovery from benzodiazepine and CNS depressant addiction is absolutely possible, even when it feels insurmountable. With caring support and a tailored treatment plan, you can reclaim your life or support loved ones who are struggling. Faithland Recovery Center is here to walk beside you every step of the journey.
If you are seeking support for yourself or a loved one, reach out to us.
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic. “Benzodiazepines (Benzos).” https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24570-benzodiazepines-benzos
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Benzodiazepines and Opioids.” https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/opioids/benzodiazepines-opioids
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Misuse of Prescription Drugs Research Report: Prescription CNS Depressants.” https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/misuse-prescription-drugs/overview nida.nih.gov
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Comorbidity: Addiction and Other Mental Illnesses.” https://www.drugsandalcohol.ie/12727/1/NIDA_Comorbidity.pdf
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