Benzodiazepine Addiction

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are prescription medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and related conditions. These medications are used to treat a variety of health conditions, including anxiety disorders and sleep disorders, and are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the U.S. Most people know benzodiazepines by their brand names, such as Xanax, Valium, Ambien, Klonopin, and Ativan.

When taken, they affect the body’s central nervous system and produce a sedating, calming sensation that can be extremely effective for managing anxiety-related disorders and other mental and physical health concerns.

However, benzos also produce a mild euphoria, causing some people to misuse or abuse these medications in order to experience this effect.

Benzodiazepines, also known simply as “benzos,” are a group of drugs classified as tranquilizers. Unfortunately, benzodiazepines have a high risk of misuse and abuse. Over time, people who take these medications can build a tolerance, which can then lead to dependency and addiction.

Identifying Benzodiazepine Misuse & Abuse

Like other forms of prescription drug abuse, it can be difficult to tell when benzodiazepine use has gotten out of control. These medications are typically prescribed to treat legitimate health conditions, making it hard to detect when you or someone you care about has begun to misuse or abuse benzos.

That being said, some of the warning signs of benzodiazepine misuse and abuse include:

• Taking a higher dose than prescribed
• Taking benzodiazepines for longer than prescribed
• Building a “back-up” supply
• Taking someone else’s prescribed medication
• “Borrowing” or stealing someone else’s medication
• Requesting early refills
• Seeing multiple doctors to obtain several prescriptions
• Lying about a health condition to obtain an unnecessary prescription
• Forging a prescription
• Buying benzodiazepines from someone else
• Lying about drug use
• Becoming increasingly more secretive
• Experiencing problems at home, work, or school
• Spending significant time thinking about, obtaining, or taking benzos
• Experiencing cravings and/or withdrawals when not using benzodiazepines

As an individual continues taking benzodiazepines, they can develop a tolerance, causing them to need more and more of the drug to achieve the same effects. This, in turn, is a slippery slope to dependency and addiction.

Negative Health Effects Associated with Benzo Abuse

Benzodiazepines are associated with numerous negative health effects. In the short-term, a person who stops taking benzos may experience anxiety, confusion, headaches, fatigue, blurred vision, irritability, and forgetfulness.

Meanwhile, some of the long-term health effects of prolonged benzodiazepine abuse include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Poor cognitive function
• Memory problems
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Lack of coordination
• Falls
• Slowed reactions
• Reduced inhibition
• Dementia

Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment

The Lakes Treatment Center offers comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with benzodiazepine addiction in Northern California. Our specialized programs are designed to address the unique challenges associated with benzodiazepine dependence and provide a safe, supportive environment for recovery.

At The Lakes Treatment Center, our benzodiazepine addiction treatment programs combine evidence-based therapies with a holistic approach to recovery. Our individualized treatment plans address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of addiction, providing patients with the tools they need to achieve long-term sobriety.

The prevalence of benzodiazepine addiction may be influenced by various factors, including stressful lifestyles and access to healthcare. At The Lakes Treatment Center, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective care for individuals struggling with benzodiazepine addiction in Northern California. Our experienced team is dedicated to helping patients overcome their challenges and build a healthier, happier life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does The Lakes Treatment Center support dual diagnosis for benzodiazepine addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders?

Dual diagnosis refers to the presence of both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition. At The Lakes Treatment Center, we understand the complex relationship between addiction and mental health issues. Our integrated approach addresses both aspects simultaneously, with specialized therapies and psychiatric support to manage co-occurring disorders effectively.

What aftercare resources are available to support long-term recovery after completing treatment at The Lakes Treatment Center?

Recovery is a lifelong journey, and ongoing support is essential for maintaining sobriety. After completing our benzodiazepine addiction treatment program, clients have access to various aftercare resources, including support groups, individual counseling sessions, and referrals to community resources in Northern California. Additionally, our team provides personalized relapse prevention plans to help patients stay on track with their recovery goal