Benzodiazepine Rehab in Pennsylvania

The rise of benzodiazepine use across the nation is a growing concern, and it’s adversely impacting millions of individuals every year. According to recent data from Boston University, a staggering 118,208 overdose deaths involved benzodiazepines from 2000 to 2019, with 84 percent of these deaths involving an opioid. Like opioids in the past, there is a significant overprescribing culture of benzos plaguing our country. In the short-term, they can be an effective weapon in managing conditions like anxiety and insomnia, but they’re just that – meant for the short-term. Many people continue to misuse them for their intoxicating and sedating effects.

If you or someone you love is struggling with benzodiazepine dependency, it’s understandable to feel scared and uncertain about the future. However, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and there is a path to recovery. Below, we’ll discuss the importance of benzodiazepine treatment and why benzos are not like other drugs as they can cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines, often referred to as “benzos,” are a class of medications commonly prescribed to help manage anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They work by calming the nervous system, providing relief from intense feelings of stress and promoting a sense of tranquility. Some of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines include Xanax, Valium, and Ativan. While these medications can be incredibly effective when used as prescribed and offer much-needed relief to those dealing with overwhelming anxiety or sleep disorders, they can be dangerous.

The very properties that make benzodiazepines so effective can also lead to dependency. Over time, the body will become accustomed to their effects, requiring higher doses to achieve the same level of relief. This process, known as tolerance, can set the stage for dependency and addiction, which is why it’s so important to use these medications under close medical supervision. It’s why doctors typically will not prescribe benzos for more than 14 days due to the high risk of dependency.

Understanding how dependency develops is crucial in addressing the problem and finding a path to recovery. Next, we’ll explore the mechanisms behind benzodiazepine dependency and how it can gradually take hold.

How Does Benzodiazepine Dependence Develop?

Benzodiazepine dependence often develops quietly and gradually. It often begins with a legitimate prescription to help manage anxiety, insomnia, or other conditions. At first, the relief these medications provide can feel like a lifeline, making it easier to navigate daily life. The problem is, as your body adjusts to the medication, you might find that the same dose no longer has the same effect. This phenomenon, known as tolerance, can lead you to take higher or more frequent doses to achieve the desired relief. 

As tolerance builds, the brain’s chemistry also starts to change. Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA), which helps naturally calm our nervous system. Over time, your brain will become reliant on the medication to maintain a sense of calm, making it nearly impossible to function without it. This reliance can quickly turn into physical and psychological dependency, where the thought of stopping the medication brings about anxiety or distress – or even worse.

Recognizing the signs of dependency is crucial. If you find yourself needing more of the medication to feel the same effects, experiencing withdrawal symptoms between doses, or feeling anxious at the thought of not having the medication, it may be time to seek help. Understanding how dependency develops is the first step towards breaking the cycle and reclaiming control over your life.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms

Experiencing withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be one of the most challenging and dangerous aspects of recovery. Understanding what to expect and knowing that you are not alone can make a significant difference. Withdrawal symptoms occur because your body has become accustomed to the presence of benzos in your system, causing it to stop production of GABA. When abruptly cease use, your system needs time to readjust. While the process can be uncomfortable, it is a critical step towards reclaiming your health and well-being.

Common withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and physical discomfort such as headaches or muscle pain. Some individuals might also experience more intense symptoms like panic attacks, tremors, or even seizures. It’s important to remember that these symptoms are temporary and signify that your body is healing. However, the longer you take benzos and the higher the dose, the more prolonged and severe the symptoms will be. Compassionate care and support during this time can greatly alleviate the discomfort and help you navigate this challenging period.

It’s vital to approach withdrawal with a plan and the right support. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can be dangerous, so it’s best to undergo withdrawal under medical supervision. This ensures that you are safe and that any severe symptoms can be managed effectively. With professional help, you can taper off the medication gradually, minimizing the intensity of withdrawal symptoms and making the process more manageable.

How to Treat Benzodiazepine Addiction

Treating benzodiazepine addiction is a multi-step journey, but with the right support and resources, it’s a path that can lead to a healthier, happier, and more satisfying life. The detox process is the first and most critical step in this journey. It involves safely removing the drug from your system while managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision. This process is best conducted in a professional setting where healthcare providers can monitor your progress and address any complications that arise. It can be extremely dangerous. There are also many documented cases of death caused by benzo withdrawal.

During detox, you will be guided through a gradual tapering process, where the dosage of benzodiazepines is slowly reduced over time to help minimize withdrawal symptoms and make the transition more comfortable. Medical professionals may also provide medications to ease specific symptoms and ensure your safety throughout the detox period. The objective is to help your body adjust without the sudden shock of complete cessation, laying a solid foundation for the next stages of recovery.

Once detox is complete, there are several treatment options to support your long-term recovery. Inpatient rehab programs offer a structured environment where you can focus entirely on your healing, away from the triggers and stresses of daily life. These programs provide comprehensive care, including therapy, medical support, and holistic treatments that address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

For those who need to maintain daily responsibilities, outpatient rehab programs offer flexibility while still providing intensive support. Outpatient treatment includes regular therapy sessions, support groups, and access to medical care, allowing you to stay connected with your family and work while receiving the help you need.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is another powerful tool in treating benzodiazepine addiction. CBT helps you understand the thoughts and behaviors that contribute to your addiction and develop healthier coping strategies. This form of therapy can be incredibly empowering, giving you the skills to manage stress, avoid triggers, and build a life free from dependency.

Once treatment is complete does not mean your journey is over. Addiction is a disease of the brain that will be present for life, and it’s critical that you take the proper steps to learn how to live with it. It’s important to attend 12-step meetings, and surround yourself with others in recovery to safeguard your new sobriety. Fortunately, Peace Valley Recovery can help you each step of the way.