Benzodiazepines are one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States, and they can be incredibly beneficial in treating anxiety, seizures and other medical conditions.
However, when taken improperly or abused over a long period of time, benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence and addiction. If you or someone you know is battling an addiction to benzodiazepines it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible.
In this blog post, we will explore what rehab services for benzodiazepines are available and discuss how they can support individuals looking to reclaim their lives and take back control over their substance use disorder.
What is Benzodiazepines:
Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are a type of chemical compound commonly used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and seizures. They work by calming the nervous system and have been prescribed in the United States since the 1960s.
Benzos are highly addictive and can cause physical and psychological dependence. In some cases, people develop a tolerance to benzos over time which makes them more susceptible to abuse. Common types of benzos include Xanax, Valium, Klonopin and Ativan.
In recent years there has been an alarming rise in benzodiazepine abuse across the US. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that between 2005-2010 there was an 80% increase in emergency department visits related to benzodiazepines misuse nationwide.
Treatment Options for Benzodiazepines Addiction
Professional treatment at a certified rehab facility is the only way to break the cycle of Benzodiazepines addiction. If you’re looking for treatment options for benzodiazepine addiction, there are several types of rehab services available.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient Rehab is a highly intensive form of treatment where the individual stays at a residential facility and receives around-the-clock monitoring and supervision from professional medical staff.
Generally, an inpatient rehab program lasts between 30-90 days and is designed to provide a safe, secure environment with 24/7 access to highly trained medical professionals who specialize in helping individuals to overcome substance abuse issues.
Through this program, clients are provided with intensive therapies including individual counseling sessions, group therapy activities, educational courses on substance abuse and recovery, medication management and management of co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety and PTSD.
At the end of this type of program, clients should have a better understanding of their drug addiction and have acquired the tools needed for long term recovery.
Part Hospitalization Rehab
Part Hospitalization Rehab is another type of treatment that may be beneficial for those struggling with Benzodiazepines addiction. This program combines aspects of both inpatient treatment as well as outpatient care to create an intermediate level of care for those dealing with substance use issues.
It is typically reserved for individuals whose condition does not warrant 24-hour hospitalization but still require more comprehensive support than traditional outpatient services can offer.
Part hospitalization rehab usually consists of 8 hours or fewer of daily treatment in which clients receive both therapeutic interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as well as medications depending on need.
After successful completion of the part hospitalization program, individuals will continue to receive less intensive outpatient services for a period determined by their clinicians so that they can maintain their sobriety over time.
Intensive Outpatient Rehab
Intensive outpatient rehab provides more structure than traditional outpatient services yet less intensity than residential programs or part hospitalization rehabs. This level of care typically involves 9 or more hours per week devoted to individual counseling sessions with a certified therapist as well as group therapy activities such as education classes focused on relapse prevention strategies and coping skills development workshops.
Medication management may also be included depending on the individual’s needs. Intensive outpatient rehab allows patients to live at home while receiving treatment which makes it an ideal option for those who cannot commit to full time residential care either due to work commitments or family responsibilities at home.
Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient Rehab is the least intensive form of Benzodiazepines addiction treatment available and typically requires no more than 5 hours per week dedicated solely towards the recovery process at an outpatient clinic or a rehab.
During these sessions, individuals receive one-on-one counseling sessions with certified therapists who focus on helping clients identify triggers that could lead them back into substance abuse behaviors as well as develop coping skills tailored specifically towards their unique situations. They may also receive medications depending on need.
The goal here is often long term sobriety however progress depends greatly upon each person’s motivation levels , accountability , commitment and willingness early on during recovery. Outpatient rehab is often recommended to individuals who are at a very early stage of their addiction.
Benzodiazepines: Dependence vs. Addiction
Dependance, in the context of benzodiazepines, is a physical and/or mental need or compulsion to use the drug in order to experience its effects or mitigate withdrawal symptoms. It can also be defined as an adaptation of the body or mind to a particular substance which results in physiological changes that make it difficult for an individual to stop using that substance even when it is causing harm.
Addiction, on the other hand, is characterized by compulsive drug seeking behavior where individuals are unable to control their substance use even though it has a negative impact on their lives. People with benzodiazepine addiction often experience cravings for the drug and may engage in activities that could increase their risk of harm such as driving under the influence or mixing benzodiazepines with other substances like alcohol. Unlike dependence, addiction can involve psychological and social consequences such as impaired judgement, relationship problems, financial difficulties, legal issues and more.
Both dependency and addiction can develop after abusing benzodiazepines but they are two distinct conditions. Dependence usually involves physical adaptations while addiction involves compulsive behaviors associated with drug-seeking. While dependence can lead to addiction if left untreated, not everyone who experiences dependency will become addicted.
Benzodiazepines Addiction Symptoms
While these drugs can be effective in treating these conditions, they can also be habit-forming and have significant side effects. As such, it is important to understand the symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction so that you can recognize if you or someone you know is at risk for developing an addiction.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms are among the most common indicators of benzodiazepine addiction. Common physical symptoms include:
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Coordination problems
- Memory impairment
- Impaired judgment
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Changes in appetite
- Low libido
If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of these signs after taking benzodiazepines for an extended period of time, it may be time to seek help from a medical professional.
Psychological Symptoms
Psychological symptoms are also common and more intense in those suffering from benzodiazepine addiction. These often include:
- Depression or mood swings
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Cravings for more drug use
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
- Social isolation
- Financial difficulty due to excessive drug use
- Feelings of paranoia or delusions
- Hallucinations (visual or auditory)
- Increased risk-taking behaviors such as driving under the influence
- Violent behavior when attempting to obtain more drugs
These psychological symptoms should not be taken lightly as they can have dangerous consequences if left untreated.
Diagnosing Benzodiazepines Addiction:
Benzodiazepine addiction is a serious problem and can have devastating effects on individuals and their loved ones. It is important to recognize the signs of addiction early, in order to address it as soon as possible. People who are addicted to benzodiazepines may exhibit certain behavioral changes that indicate an addiction has developed.
It may be difficult for outsiders to diagnose benzodiazepine addiction in someone else, but there are some tell-tale signs that can help you identify the issue. If a person is taking more than the prescribed dosage of benzodiazepines or taking them more often than directed by a doctor, this could be an indication of an addiction.
Additionally, a person who has become addicted to benzodiazepines may begin engaging in activities such as doctor shopping or attempting to obtain prescriptions from multiple physicians in order to increase their supply.
Other common symptoms of benzodiazepine abuse include changes in mood or behavior, isolation, increased irritability and aggression, and difficulty sleeping without the drugs. Individuals may also display physical symptoms such as tremors and heart palpitations, which can be indicators of withdrawal when they attempt to discontinue use. In addition, people with addictions to benzodiazepines may go through periods of intense cravings for the drug during which they will do anything necessary to obtain it. Even if access to these medications is limited due to financial constraints, individuals with an addiction may resort to stealing drugs or money in order to continue using them.
If you suspect someone you know is struggling with an addiction to benzodiazepines, it is important that you encourage them or seek professional help from a qualified physician or healthcare provider. With prompt treatment, many individuals are able to overcome their addictions and regain control over their lives.
Benzodiazepines Addiction Treatment Options in South Carolina:
Benzodiazepine addiction is a serious issue in the United States. Fortunately, for the residents of South Carolina, there are many treatment options available for those struggling with this substance abuse disorder.
Benzodiazepines Rehab in Charleston
There are specialized rehab centers in Charleston that offer tailored programs to help individuals overcome their benzodiazepine addiction. These rehab centers focus on providing comprehensive therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy, individual counseling, and family therapy in addition to medication-assisted treatments and pharmacological interventions.
By addressing the underlying causes of addiction and creating an environment conducive to recovery, these centers can help individuals regain control over their lives and become sober again.
Xanax Treatment for Greenville Residents
Greenville residents who are struggling with Xanax addiction have access to specialized rehabilitation programs as well. The professionals at these treatment centers will work with patients to personalize a program that best suits their needs and goals.
Through individualized counseling sessions, group therapies, and activities designed to promote healing, these centers provide the care and support necessary for lasting sobriety. In addition to traditional forms of therapy, some outpatient rehab centers in Greenville also offer holistic approaches such as yoga classes and meditation workshops that can help individuals build healthier ways to cope with their anxiety and addiction.
Benzodiazepines Drug Treatment Services Extended to Columbia
Columbia residents have access to a wide range of benzodiazepine drug treatment services. These services include medication-assisted treatment programs that combine psychotherapy with medications to reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms while minimizing long-term health risks associated with benzodiazepine abuse or misuse.
Some centers also offer mental health assessments so that clinicians can better understand each patient’s unique needs before prescribing appropriate medications or developing an effective treatment plan.
Additionally, many Columbia-based rehabilitation facilities also provide relapse prevention education so that individuals can learn how to recognize triggers for drug use and develop strategies for avoiding future substance use behaviors.
Benzodiazepines Addiction: Long Term Effects
Addiction to benzodiazepines can have devastating and long-term impacts on an individual’s physical and mental health, livelihood, and relationships. Extended use of these drugs leads to increased tolerance which requires increased doses to bring about the desired effect, leading individuals toward spiraling addiction behaviors.
Those addicted may become isolated due to their secretive drug use, resulting in decreased social ties with family or friends. Chronic use also increases the risk of developing a variety of medical problems including depression, anxiety disorders, memory impairment, liver damage and ataxia.
Lastly, dependency can be incredibly difficult to escape as withdrawal symptoms are both physically and psychologically uncomfortable. With proper care and treatment however it is possible for individuals suffering from benzodiazepine addiction to rebuild their life free from the dependence that once gripped them.
Benzodiazepines Treatment FAQs:
Can I go to detox for Benzodiazepines addiction?
Yes, you can go to detox for Benzodiazepines addiction. Although, it is recommended to undergo detox under medical supervision and the care of addiction specialists.
Can I attend inpatient rehab for Benzodiazepines addiction?
Yes, you can attend inpatient rehab for benzodiazepines addiction if you can manage the finances and break from your work/life/school.
Can I enroll in outpatient rehab for Benzodiazepines addiction?
Yes, you can enroll in outpatient rehab for benzodiazepines addiction. Just be sure to consult a professional if it’s the right course of treatment for you.
Can I Overdose on Benzodiazepines?
Yes, you can overdose on benzodiazepines especially if you have developed a dependence for the drug.
Final Thoughts on Benzodiazepines Addiction Treatment:
While recovery from any substance abuse is never an easy journey, with comprehensive rehabilitation services including detoxification support groups, counseling sessions and individualized care plans–there’s hope for a brighter future, free from your benzodiazepine addiction.
By taking an informed approach to choosing the right type of treatment, you’ll be able to successfully manage your addiction without putting yourself at risk of relapse or other negative outcomes in the long run.
