Over 93 million prescriptions to benzodiazepines were prescribed in 2021. These central nervous system depressants are one of the most widely prescribed and abused prescription medications in the country. While your doctor may be quick to write you a prescription, they are not always so keen to talk about their seriously addictive potential. If you have been taking benzos for a consistent amount of time, even at prescribed doses, there is a good chance your mind and body has developed a physical dependence on the drug. Getting off these medications may not be as easy as you think. Detoxing requires careful planning and the support of licensed medical professionals.
At Owl's Nest Recovery in Florence, SC, we understand the complexities of addiction and the importance of starting your journey to recovery with the right information. Here are three essential things you should know before beginning the benzo detox process.
Understanding Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms
Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, and Restoril. These are all commonly prescribed benzodiazepines. The medical community gives these drugs out for anxiety, insomnia, panic disorders, and as anticonvulsants. While effective for their medical purpose, they lead to quick dependence and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Detoxing from benzodiazepines should always be done under medical supervision due to the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms, which can include:
- Anxiety & Panic Attacks: These can be more intense than the original symptoms the medication was prescribed for. This is known as the rebound effect and can be very uncomfortable.
- Seizures: One of the most dangerous withdrawal symptoms that can occur if detox is not properly managed. This is a very serious issue and can be lethal if not supervised.
- Insomnia & Restlessness: Difficulty sleeping and increased agitation are common during the withdrawal phase. This can be a serious issue and lead to relapse.
Abrupt cessation of benzos is not recommended. Working with a medical professional you can gradually taper the dosage to minimize withdrawal symptoms and monitor for any complications, ensuring a safer and more comfortable detox experience.
The Importance of a Medically Supervised Detox
Attempting to detox from benzodiazepines without medical supervision is highly dangerous and is generally not a great idea. Due to the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, a medically supervised detox provides a safer environment and will significantly improve outcomes. Medical professionals can:
- Monitor Vital Signs: Regular monitoring ensures that any adverse symptoms are promptly addressed, reducing the risk of complications.
- Administer Medication: In the case of benzo detox, the ability of doctors to prescribe medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and make the process more tolerable can be the difference between relapse and recovery.
- Provide Emotional Support: Detoxing is not just a physical challenge but an emotional one as well. Having medical and emotional support can be a game changer.
At Owl's Nest Recovery, we specialize in providing comprehensive addiction treatment services post-detox, ensuring that you or your loved one receives the support needed for long-term recovery.
Preparing for Life After Detox
Getting over the physical dependence on prescription medications is only the first step in the recovery process. It’s essential to have a plan in place for continuing care and support to prevent relapse and promote long-term sobriety. Our clinical team recommends the following:
- Continued Therapy: Ongoing therapy can help address the root causes of addiction and provide tools for managing stress and emotions without resorting to substance use.
- Healthy Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and mindfulness practices can support overall well-being and reduce the risk of relapse. These activities can also help provide natural remedies to the ailments for which benzos were originally prescribed.
- Aftercare Programs: Participating in aftercare programs and support groups can provide ongoing accountability and support as you navigate life in recovery.
Owl’s Nest is committed to offering a range of programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Our holistic approach includes therapy, wellness activities, and peer support, helping you build the skills and resilience needed for long-term recovery.
Learn More
While Owl’s Nest Recovery does not provide detox services, our dedicated team is here to support you through every other phase of your recovery journey. We can help you find benzodiazepine detox with one of our trusted partners and set you up with a post-detox treatment plan. Call us today to learn more about our comprehensive treatment programs and how we can help you achieve lasting sobriety.
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