Benzodiazepines (benzos) are medical-grade tranquilizers used safely by millions of people to treat anxiety, among other mental health conditions. Using benzos improperly or without a prescription is considered abuse and can cause dependence and addiction. The sedative effects of benzos can put those who misuse the drug at risk. If you or someone you care about shows signs of benzo addiction, consider a benzo addiction treatment program.
In a professional drug rehab center, you’ll receive evidence-based treatments to help you begin recovery from benzo addiction. Let our staff at The Right Step Houston create a treatment plan that makes it easy for you to return to health and well-being, free from dependence on benzos.
Commonly Abused Benzos
Physicians commonly prescribe benzos to patients dealing with anxiety, insomnia, or both. Benzos can be used safely for years when used properly and according to instructions. Doctors most often prescribe these benzo name brands:
- Xanax®
- Valium®
- Ativan®
- Librium®
- Klonopin®
As with other prescription psychoactive medications, there’s an off-label, illicit use for benzos. People abuse all forms of benzodiazepines, whether they have a legitimate prescription or acquire the drug by stealing, borrowing, or other means without a physician.
People who want a relaxed high or hope to mute symptoms of undiagnosed mental health conditions will seek the sedative effects of benzos, which create feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and well-being.
Signs of Benzo Addiction
It’s not always easy to tell if someone is abusing benzos. The signs of benzo addiction can be subtle or dramatic. The amount taken has a significant effect on how a benzo addiction manifests.
There are physical, psychological, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms of benzo abuse and addiction to look out for.
Physical signs:
- Muscle weakness
- Headaches
- Light-headedness
- Drowsiness
- Blurry vision
Psychological signs:
- Mood swings
- Angry outbursts
- Emotional dissociation
- Lack of inhibition
Behavioral signs:
- Risk-taking behaviors
- Inability to meet job, school, and family responsibilities
- Social isolation
- Detachment from things that once mattered
Cognitive signs:
- Poor decision making
- Trouble focusing
- Sluggish thinking
- Memory issues
One of the most prominent signs of benzo addiction is the onset of withdrawal symptoms if the drug is withheld.
Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms
Benzodiazepines are depressants that act upon the central nervous system (CNS). Benzo withdrawal symptoms can be key indicators of dependence and addiction, including the following:
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Panic attacks and anxiety
- Tremors
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle pain
- Seizures
A medically supervised detox in a licensed rehab program is the safest and most comfortable way to go through withdrawal. The timeline for benzo withdrawal varies from person to person, but it usually starts within a day of taking the last dose. The symptoms can last several days to several weeks and, in some cases, longer. Medications can mitigate any physical withdrawal, though symptoms may vary depending on the benzo used, the amount taken, and the frequency of use.
Connect with The Right Step Houston and Start Benzo Addiction Treatment Today
If you’re addicted to one of the commonly abused benzos, consider rehab at The Right Step Houston. We’re here to usher you safely onto the path of recovery, helping you find healing of body and mind. Our inpatient and intensive outpatient programs offer wrap-around care in a trigger-free setting. Trained, experienced clinicians provide evidence-based treatments and provide you with the support and encouragement you need and deserve.
Call The Right Step Houston at 1.844.768.0169 today, or submit our online form to connect to one of our staff. Your future is bright—you can live a good life free from addiction. Let us help.