Understanding Benzodiazepine Abuse, Addiction, and Treatment

What Are Benzodiazepines?

A class of psychoactive drugs, benzodiazepines are also known simply as benzos.

These drugs are prescribed for treating mental health conditions. They work by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity. GABA is a calming brain chemical. Usually taken orally, well-known benzodiazepines include Xanax, Ativan, and Klonopin.

When used for short periods and carefully as prescribed, benzodiazepines can effectively treat specific symptoms.

Their effects and how quickly they work can also lead to benzodiazepine addiction. This risk is primarily when used for longer periods or not as prescribed.

• Benzodiazepines affect the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS includes the brain and spine.
• They have anti-anxiety effects because they calm excessive brain activity. They can promote relaxation.
• Benzodiazepines also have sedative effects, potentially inducing drowsiness and sleep because they suppress the brain’s arousal pathways.
• Other effects include muscle relaxation and anti-seizure effects.

Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Addiction

Not everyone who abuses benzodiazepines will become addicted. Addiction, a medical condition, can manifest in different ways. Symptoms vary based on many factors, like the duration and dosage of use contributing to increased risk.

Common symptoms that can come from misused benzodiazepines or addiction include:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Impaired balance and coordination
• Stomach issues like nausea or vomiting
• Muscle weakness
• Slurred speech
• Increased anxiety or panic attacks
• Memory problems or blackouts
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Irritability or agitation
• Confusion or disorientation
• Preoccupation with getting and using benzos
• Continuing to use benzos when they’re causing negative consequences
• Social isolation
• Loss of interest in other activities
• Neglecting responsibilities
• Participating in risky behaviors under the influence of benzos

Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment in Los Angeles

Once an addiction occurs, it’s a complex condition requiring a customized treatment approach. Benzodiazepine addiction treatment usually involves a combination of behavioral therapies, medical interventions, and supportive services.

Medical Detox

For people with benzodiazepine dependence or other drug misusers, medical detoxification may be the first step.

• During a medical detox, withdrawal symptoms are safely managed.
• A medically supervised detox reduces discomfort and the risk of complications when someone stops taking high doses of benzodiazepines.
• Some symptoms of withdrawal can be life-threatening, so this is an important step.

Behavioral Therapies and Counseling

Behavioral therapies are a cornerstone of evidence-based benzodiazepine addiction treatment once someone has fully detoxed.

• Contingency management, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing (MI) are commonly used in benzodiazepine addiction treatment.
• These therapies help with identifying and changing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors linked to substance use.
• Behavioral therapy can help develop coping strategies to manage triggers and cravings and set goals for long-term recovery.
• Individual counseling sessions are a supportive and safe environment during treatment. Counseling is a time to explore underlying issues contributing to addiction and address co-occurring mental disorders. Individual counseling can also be where an individual develops personalized strategies to prevent relapse.
• Group therapy sessions provide the opportunity to connect with peers going through similar challenges and provide mutual encouragement, support, and accountability.

Holistic and Complementary Therapies

Effectively dealing with benzodiazepine addiction or other forms of substance abuse can include a holistic approach and lifestyle changes. Healthy lifestyle habits like regular exercise, mindfulness, stress management, and good nutrition support well-being and long-term recovery.

Aftercare Planning

A treatment plan should include aftercare considerations as well.

A comprehensive aftercare plan is a tool used for maintaining recovery and preventing relapse once formal treatment ends.

While everyone’s plan is unique, aftercare could include:

• Ongoing therapy
• Support group participation
• Access to community resources
• Vocational or educational support.

Treating addiction to benzodiazepines requires a holistic approach. The approach should address the condition’s physical, psychological, and social components. Combining evidence-based interventions and personalized care can help someone achieve sustained recovery to reclaim their lives.

Get Help for Benzodiazepine Abuse and Addiction in Los Angeles

If you or someone you know is dealing with benzodiazepine abuse or addiction, professional support and help are crucial.

Take the first step towards lifelong recovery by contacting Invigorate Behavioral Health. We’re a team made up of compassionate professionals. We specialize in treating benzodiazepine abuse addiction and other substance use disorders.

Our Los Angeles addiction treatment plans are carefully tailored to your needs so we can deliver comprehensive care. We understand the challenges you’re facing, but you can recover and begin a life without benzodiazepines.