Benzodiazepine addiction
What is benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs used to treat a variety of physical and mental health conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They work by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help to reduce symptoms. Benzodiazepines are among the most prescribed drugs in the world, but they can also be highly addictive and are associated with a number of side effects.
Benzodiazepines can be taken orally, injected, or applied as a patch. They are typically prescribed in low doses and taken as needed, usually on a short-term basis. Long-term use of benzodiazepines is not recommended, as this can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
What is addiction?
An individual with addiction is one who can no longer control their dependence on a substance, activity, or behaviour. It is a chronic illness that can seriously harm a person’s relationships, finances, physical and mental health.
Benzo addiction can also lead to feelings of loneliness, depression, and difficulty going about daily tasks for the addicted person. It’s critical that anyone battling an addiction to benzodiazepine gets expert assistance from a healthcare provider.
Benzodiazepine addiction
Benzodiazepine addiction is a growing problem in today’s society. Benzodiazepines, commonly known as ‘benzos’, are a class of drugs used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. While they can be effective in treating these conditions, they can also be highly addictive and have a range of potentially serious side effects.
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The effects of benzodiazepine
Benzodiazepines work by increasing levels of the neurotransmitter GABA, which has a calming and sedative effect on the body. This can help people with anxiety, insomnia, and other issues to relax and sleep. However, benzodiazepines are also highly addictive. Once someone starts taking them, they may find it difficult to stop and may need higher doses to achieve the same effect.
Common signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction include:
Difficulty sleeping without taking the drug
Increased tolerance to the drug
Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, nausea, and tremors
Impaired judgment, difficulty concentrating and impaired coordination
Social withdrawal, neglect of responsibilities, and risky behaviour
Cravings
Common side effects of benzodiazepines include:
Drowsiness
Confusion
Slurred speech
Memory problems
It can also cause depression, aggression, and impaired coordination
People who take benzodiazepines for a long time can develop tolerance, which means that they need higher doses to get the same effect. Benzodiazepines should be used with caution and only under the supervision of a doctor. They should not be combined with alcohol or other drugs that can have a sedative effect. People who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take benzodiazepines.
Treating benzodiazepine addiction
It is important to seek professional medical help immediately if you suspect you or a loved one may be addicted to benzodiazepine. Our treatment programmes at Steps Together typically include a combination of clinical treatment, therapy, hospitality and accommodation. Medication can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while psychotherapy can provide valuable support and guidance.
For our residential and non-residential (outpatient) clients, we provide an eclectic blend of discrete, private, and confidential therapy programmes. This guarantees that we provide treatment and therapy programmes that are tailored to each individual, family, or group’s needs. These cover a wide range of addictions, disorders, and emotional and mental health concerns, and they include some of the best and most scientifically supported treatment modalities.
At Steps Together, we carefully blend clinical treatment, therapy, hospitality and accommodation to provide you with the perfect holistic environment, all under one roof, to help you enjoy your stay and make the most of your treatment programme and recovery.
Benzodiazepine addiction is a serious issue that can have long-lasting effects. If you or someone you know is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, it is important to seek professional help. With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.
If you feel you are addicted to benzodiazepine, please contact us today on 0330 175 7031 for a free and confidential discussion.
Benzodiazepine detox
The first step in addiction treatment for Benzodiazepine is detoxification. Detoxing from Benzodiazepine involves slowly reducing the amount of the drug in the system until the individual is no longer dependent on it. This process can be difficult and uncomfortable, so it is important to have medical supervision to ensure the safety and comfort of the individual.
The Benzodiazepine detox period is the essential initial step in your recovery journey at Steps Together rehab facility. Although there might be discomfort, our expert recovery team will provide constant support and supervision. Benzodiazepine rehab facilities offer a controlled environment to manage withdrawal symptoms you may experience. Addiction is a serious issue and can have a detrimental effect on a person’s life.
Real stories from our previous clients
“I can’t imagine to this day what it was like for my parents, a mix of relief that I had finally agreed and disbelief that this is what it had come to.”
Ben, sober since January 2019
