Benzodiazepines are a type of prescription sedative medication with a range of legitimate medical uses. Primary among these, they can provide an anxiolytic, calming effect, which is why many people are prescribed them for anxiety. If you’ve been prescribed a benzodiazepine and you are afraid you could become physically dependent on this medication, it helps to learn a bit about how they work. It is also important to explore the options for benzodiazepine tapers and detox doctors are quick to prescribe these anxiety-quelling meds, but they do not know how to help patients get off of them comfortably and help them avoid chemical addiction. True Life Center can provide you with the support you need when you need a root-cause approach to your anxiety or help getting off of a benzodiazepine. You might even want to know if your mind and body have an addiction to benzodiazepines.
If you are looking for a benzo taper program in CA, True Life Center has the solution for you. Reach out to our team of mental health and addiction specialists online at [email protected] or call us at 866.420.1792 today.
What Are Benzos and Why Are They Risky?
Benzodiazepines are a type of prescription medication that immediately calms the nervous system. In fact, they target the same receptors in the brain as alcohol and have a similar depressant effect, which can be calming and quieting at the moment. They are also sometimes categorized as sedatives because of the way they work. Common brand names include Xanax, Librium, Valium, and Klonopin. Most people are prescribed these substances to treat panic disorder or an anxiety disorder, and they can work very well in the short term in these situations.
Benzos provide the ultimate betrayal because just as quickly as they reduce the anxiety, they switch course and ultimately exacerbate the very problems they initially extinguished. Our bodies become physically tolerant to benzos, which means you need higher doses in order to achieve the same result, which ultimately can lead to physical and psychological dependence, otherwise known as addiction. Many people with a dependence on benzodiazepines do not relate to the term addiction, because they have taken these medicines as prescribed all along. Many share that they did not know the level of tolerance and dependence that could ensue after taking benzos on a regular basis, even for a short time.
You know your body and behavior best. If you have found yourself needing benzos in order to function, but have lost your energy, joy, motivation, you may need to consider a benzo taper or detox. Many people do not realize that benzos can actually cause clinical depression and are overjoyed when they get off of these pills that have controlled their lives for so long.
Do I Need a Benzo Taper or Detox? Do I Have an Addiction to Benzodiazepines?
Most people do not see their benzo medications as habit-forming or as part of a chemical addiction, because they have taken them as prescribed and under the guidance of their doctor. Some things to consider regarding your body’s tolerance to these medications:
- You think about or feel the need to use benzos often.
- Your prescriptions run out before they should.
- Panic or anxiety occurs when you don’t take these medications.
- You’ve gone to more than one doctor to get medication, i.e. “doctor shopped.”
- You can no longer take the meds as needed, but need to take them on a consistent basis.
When you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to seek out a benzo taper or an addiction treatment center. If you are seeking help from a benzo taper program in CA, True Life Center can help.
What Can I Expect if I Do Not Get Benzo Addiction Treatment?
If you need benzo addiction treatment and do not get the help you need, it is likely that you will not be able to stop using on your own. Addiction experts have known for decades that despite the conventional wisdom that addiction is merely a matter of willpower, addiction is a disease that changes the chemistry of the brain. Without professional help, you are far less likely to quit successfully, and if you do manage it, your chances of relapse are higher.
Without professional benzo addiction treatment, you may also be at risk for overdose or other adverse health conditions that have resulted from your use. It can be tough to manage your addiction over time. It may lead to complications in relationships, financial problems, and even job loss.
What Can I Expect in Benzo Addiction Treatment?
At True Life Center, we offer comprehensive treatment that uncovers the root cause of suffering and helps our patients find a path to achievable and sustainable health. For many patients who use benzos, one of the underlying causes of this use is anxiety or panic, which is so manifest and activated in the body. Our benzo addiction treatment approach is built on helping to manage your mental health needs while also teaching you skills and helping you to become more embodied and grounded. This type of treatment can help to restore your confidence and your well-being. Our team can help with programs like:
- Partial hospitalization program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Neurobiological integration program
- Anxiety disorder treatment
Take the First Step in Recovery by Calling True Life Center Today
Are you ready to find the benzo addiction treatment that can change your life? When you are ready to start over and get the help you need, put your trust in True Life Center.
True Life Center is committed to helping individuals find and express their authentic selves. When suffering is deep and enduring, understanding the path forward brings comfort and hope. Our aim is to provide a comprehensive map for long-term recovery and optimal health. We listen carefully to you and your loved ones to understand and co-collaborate in the creation of your True Life Recovery Plan. Finding treatment for mental illness may seem challenging right now, but it’s only a phone call away. Five minutes can give you the key to years of stability and contentment. To learn more, reach out to True Life Center online today or give us a ring at 866.420.1792 to start your journey to healing today.
