Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as benzos, are in the prescription sedative class of drugs. They are primarily used for treating anxiety but have other uses as well. Benzos are some of the most frequently prescribed medications in the nation. Because of their mood- and mind-altering effects, benzos are commonly used recreationally and abused for non-medical purposes.
Prolonged use or abuse of benzos can lead to physical and psychological dependency. Addiction to benzos is on the rise across the country. If you are struggling with dependence on benzos, the benzo addiction treatment program at Harmony Hills can help. Call 855.494.0357 to learn more.
Signs You Might Need Benzo Treatment
Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter that suppresses the activity of nerves. Benzodiazepines work by amplifying the effects of GABA to reduce the activity of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This produces a sedative and muscle-relaxing effect, which, when combined with the release of extra dopamine, makes you feel relaxed and happy. These effects, along with widespread availability, combine to make benzos popular recreational drugs.
Klonopin, Valium, Xanax, and Ativan are among the most popular benzodiazepines. Of these, Xanax is the most commonly abused. When taken in large doses or combined with other drugs or alcohol, benzos are especially dangerous. Alcohol and benzos both suppress the central nervous system. Taking them together greatly increases the risk for respiratory distress and overdose.
Benzos can cause dependency even at a therapeutic level. Whether you have been prescribed benzos or are buying them on the street, the following are some signs that you could need benzo treatment:
- You run out of your prescription before you are supposed to
- Experience withdrawal symptoms when you are not taking them
- You mix benzos with other drugs or alcohol
- Find yourself obsessing about benzos and have drug-seeking behaviors
- You are experiencing social, financial, or legal problems
- Act impulsively or engage in risky behaviors while on benzos
- You demonstrate noticeable physical signs of benzo use
It is never a good idea to suddenly stop taking benzos all at once. Sudden withdrawal from benzos can have life-threatening effects. If you are ready to get help for your benzo abuse or addiction, reach out to a professional at Harmony Hills by calling 855.494.0357.
Treating Benzodiazepine Addiction
Even though benzos are legally prescribed drugs used to treat various medical conditions effectively, they are highly addictive. As with every other addiction, recovery from benzo addiction is best achieved with the help of professional addiction treatment specialists like those at Harmony Hills.
When seeking benzodiazepine treatment, it is essential to start with an inpatient detox program that provides medical intervention and supervision. Withdrawal from benzos can cause seizures, high blood pressure, and other adverse reactions. Having alcohol or other drugs in your system increases these risks.
Following detox, our benzo addiction treatment program offers a comprehensive continuum of care that includes education about addiction, behavioral therapy interventions, and group and individual therapy. Through this program, you will discover the underlying causes of your addiction and learn the skills needed to live a sober, productive, and healthy life outside of treatment. Some of the other therapies and treatments you will have access to include:
Harmony Hills offers a partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), an aftercare program, and a residential treatment program. Our intake specialists will work with you to help decide the best course of treatment to meet your needs.
Start Your Path to Recovery at Harmony Hills
When you are ready to end the cycle of benzo addiction, Harmony Hills is here to help. We are open around the clock every day, ensuring that you can start your path to recovery at any time. Call us at 855.494.0357 to find out more about our benzo addiction treatment program.
