Benzodiazepine addiction can be difficult to live with, whether it’s happening to you or a loved one. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction, as well as how to help a loved one with benzodiazepine addiction.
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that act on the brain and central nervous system to produce a calming effect. They are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world and include drugs like alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan).
While benzodiazepines are useful in treating anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, they are also highly addictive. Benzodiazepine addiction can develop after just a few weeks of taking the drug and can lead to serious health problems like liver damage, lung damage, and heart problems. If you or a loved one is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, there is help available.
All benzodiazepines are potentially addictive. Some people may be more susceptible to developing an addiction than others.
Factors that can increase the risk of benzodiazepine addiction include:
It can take just a few weeks of taking benzodiazepines to develop an addiction. Benzodiazepines work by depressing the central nervous system, which can lead to feelings of relaxation and drowsiness.
People who abuse benzodiazepines may take them in higher doses than prescribed, or take them more often than prescribed. This can lead to tolerance, which means that the person needs to take more of the drug to feel the same effects. Benzodiazepine addiction can develop after just a few weeks of taking the drug and can lead to serious health problems like liver damage, lung damage, and heart problems.
The signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction can vary depending on the person. Some common signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction include:
Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines can be serious and even life-threatening. Symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal include:
If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek help from a benzodiazepine addiction treatment program as soon as possible.
If you have a loved one who is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, it’s important to be supportive and understanding. Many people who are addicted to benzodiazepines are embarrassed and ashamed, and may not be ready to seek help. You can help by:
Benzodiazepine addiction treatment typically starts with detoxification, which is the process of allowing the body to rid itself of the drug. Benzodiazepine detox can be done on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the severity of the addiction.
After benzodiazepine detox, patients typically participate in benzodiazepine addiction treatment programs like therapy, counseling, and support groups. Benzodiazepine addiction treatment helps people to learn how to cope with benzodiazepine cravings, triggers, and withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepine addiction treatment can last for weeks or months, and some people may need to participate in benzodiazepine addiction treatment for a year or more.
Breaking the cycle of addiction is not an easy process. It often requires medical professionals and a strong support system to get you through it. Bridging the Gaps will work with you to find the right program that works for your specific needs. Our staff is here to provide comfort and care when you need it the most.
If you or your loved one suffers from drug abuse, don’t hesitate to visit our drug rehab in Virginia. Contact us today to learn more about Benzodiazepine addiction treatment with Bridging the Gaps.
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Winchester, VA 22601
Phone: 540-535-1111
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