Benzodiazepines, also referred to as “benzos,” are highly addictive. While they’re commonly prescribed for things like anxiety disorders and insomnia, they can have serious side effects and should be used with caution. It is very important to understand the risks of using any medication before taking it. Even though benzos can be helpful in managing certain conditions, they should not be the only form of treatment and should be used as a last resort.
Prescription drug addiction is at an all-time high, and the best way to overcome an addiction is to enroll in an accredited drug treatment program at a center like American Drug Recovery. Give our highly qualified treatment team a call at (866) 788-4745 to learn more about the dangers of benzos and what benzo abuse treatment looks like. You can also reach out to us online.
An Overview of Benzos
Benzos are a sedative drug most often prescribed to help treat seizures, anxiety, insomnia, and other mental health or neurological conditions. Common brand names that you may recognize are:
- Valium
- Ambien
- Xanax
- Lunesta
- Klonopin
The sedation that results from taking benzos actually slows down—and even stops in some cases—the rate at which the brain reacts to things like stress and anxiety. This calming effect is a result of the slower rate at which neurotransmitters are functioning in the brain. A prescribed dose of benzos can be beneficial in treating the condition it is prescribed for, but when the dependence on the drug becomes more than what is prescribed, it is time to seek professional help.
Signs of Benzo Abuse
There are some specific signs that you can look out for to signal that someone might be addicted to benzos. If you or someone you care about often exhibit any of the following signs, then reach out for help through an accredited treatment center.
Benzo addiction signs include:
- A regular state of confusion
- Uncharacteristically uncoordinated
- Sleepy and drowsy during the day
- Noticeable behavioral changes
- Depression or anxiety
- Speech issues
- Tremors or shaking
Additional risks and side effects—both short and long-term—can exist if benzos are consumed while drinking alcohol. It’s a disastrous recipe for a potential overdose. As well for those over the age of 65, taking benzos can increase the chances for signs of dementia to set in earlier than normal.
How Benzo Abuse Treatment Can Help
Treatment for an addiction to benzos looks different depending on each person’s individual needs. There are a variety of treatment modalities that can be used to create a customized plan and a very personalized experience. After an evaluation, detoxification may be necessary to fully remove the drug from the body. This happens under close supervision in order to manage any withdrawal symptoms.
Following detox, a combination of individual, group, and family therapies can begin alongside behavioral therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and experiential therapies like music or equine therapy. Therapy provides an opportunity to take a deeper look at the root of addiction and work to develop healthy coping mechanisms to maintain sobriety for life.
Contact American Drug Recovery for Benzo Addiction Treatment
Overcoming a benzo addiction takes hard work and dedication. As a widely prescribed drug for treating anxiety, addiction to benzos is on the rise. Like with any drug, there are risks to taking benzos, especially when not taken as prescribed. If you or a loved one have developed an addiction to benzos, seek professional help as soon as you are able to.
Receiving treatment for addiction under the supervision of a professional and caring team in a therapeutic environment will provide you with the best scenario for treatment and recovery success.
Learn more about benzos, addiction, and how to seek treatment by contacting the professional treatment team at American Drug Recovery today. Call (866) 788-4745 or contact us through our online contact form.
