Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment
At Mount Sinai Wellness Center, we offer comprehensive support to tackle the challenges of benzo addiction. Located in Atlanta, we provide specialized, holistic treatments for benzodiazepine dependency to help you reach recovery.
Understanding Benzo Addiction
Benzodiazepines have been a common doctor-prescribed medication for over 50 years. Typically treating anxiety, sleep problems, and seizures, benzos trigger calmness and relaxation. While they can help when used as prescribed, taking them for an extended period can change how your brain works and lead to dependency. Eventually, your brain may depend on these medications to feel ‘normal.’
Are Benzodiazepines Addictive?
You can become dependent on benzos as early as 4-5 weeks because of the change in brain chemistry. This dependency is a clear indicator of addiction. When you stop taking benzodiazepines, your brain needs time to adjust to work without them again. This difficult adjustment period is often what leads to continued use of the substance.
Addiction to benzos tends to start in one of two ways. Some people have a prescription but start taking more than they should (maybe taking doses too close together or keeping them for more difficult days). Others might get pills from friends or dealers to feel good or mix them with other substances.
Recognizing Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms
Needing more doses of benzodiazepines before feeling the same level of calm indicates tolerance, which often leads to addiction. Many battle to quit because abrupt stopping can be very harmful and uncomfortable.
Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Feeling anxious
- Having panic attacks
- Quickened heartbeat
- Shaking or tremors
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling down or depressed
- Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there
- Ringing in your ears
- Feeling irritable
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Struggles with speaking
A Personalized Approach to Benzo Addiction Treatment
Quitting suddenly can be dangerous, so supervised medical detox is a vital first step. Our medical team helps you taper off slowly and safely during your benzodiazepine detox, keeping you comfortable throughout. True healing happens through tailored treatment plans to meet your needs with every approach chosen with your recovery in mind.
We use individual and group approaches, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and 12-step meetings. These proven therapies help you understand what led to addiction and learn healthy coping strategies. Our recreational and lifestyle sessions, including meditation, volleyball, and more, round out treatment. Having holistic ways to relieve stress and cravings encourages lifelong sobriety.
Aftercare and Ongoing Support
Getting sober is a great achievement, but staying sober takes continuous support. Our alumni programs and careful aftercare planning help you stay on track long after treatment. Focusing on community, support structures, and ongoing motivation, we prepare you for a future where you’re guided and healthy.
Your Recovery Story Starts Here
Benzodiazepine addiction often starts with a prescription meant to help you feel better, and we understand that. Whether you’re dealing with prescribed medications or recreational use, recovery is possible with the right support. At Mount Sinai, our qualified team can help you navigate the transition to a sober life. Reach out to take the first step toward a healthier life.
Common Questions About Benzo Addiction Treatment
How do you stop taking benzodiazepines?
It’s most important to avoid quitting benzos alone and suddenly. Having an expert medical team involved in your treatment can help you slowly wean off the drug safely. They’ll design a schedule to reduce your dose while managing any withdrawal.
What medication is used for benzodiazepine cravings?
Numerous medications can help ease cravings and withdrawal symptoms during benzo recovery. A doctor might provide longer-acting benzos for tapering. This may be in addition to other medications that treat specific symptoms, like anxiety or sleep issues.
How do you manage benzodiazepine dependence?
Managing benzo dependence begins with a medical detox. After detox, you’re ready for more in-depth, evidence-based therapies that target any pre-existing issues. Learning healthy coping skills, getting support from others also recovering, and staying connected with addiction counselors all help maintain success.
