Benzo Detox
Benzo detox can be a challenging process that requires a great deal of support and guidance. People who choose to detox from benzodiazepines at a quality drug addiction treatment center can gain insight into their substance abuse while learning strategies to overcome their drug addiction.
Understanding what benzodiazepine addiction is, how benzo withdrawal affects the body, and the value of professional help can offer clarity and comfort to those seeking treatment in a benzo detox facility for themselves or a loved one.
What Is A Benzo?
Benzodiazepines, commonly called “benzos”, are a type of depressant drug that triggers a state of sedation and hypnosis. Available by prescription only, benzodiazepines are often prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders as well as muscle spasms and seizures.
The most common benzodiazepines are the prescription drugs:
- Valium
- Xanax
- Ativan
- Klonopin
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), most benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances, which means they have a high potential for abuse. The prevalence of benzodiazepine addiction has been on the rise in recent years, with more and more people becoming dependent on these drugs.
What Is Benzo Addiction?
Benzodiazepine addiction occurs when an individual develops a physical and/or psychological dependence on these drugs. This can happen even if the person is taking them as prescribed by a doctor. Over time, the body becomes tolerant of the effects of the drug, leading to an increased need for higher doses in order to achieve the desired effect. This can quickly spiral into addiction, as individuals may start taking larger doses or using benzodiazepines more frequently than prescribed.
There are various factors that can contribute to the development of benzodiazepine addiction, including genetics, pre-existing mental health conditions, and environmental influences. Additionally, long-term use of benzodiazepines can alter the brain’s chemistry, leading to changes in behavior and cognitive function.
If you or someone you know is struggling with benzo abuse, please reach out for help today.
The Dangers of Benzo Abuse
All benzodiazepines work to slow the nerve impulses at the sites in the brain most sensitive to stress which provides relief in the form of mental and physical relaxation. Due to the drug’s effects on the central nervous system, however, benzodiazepine misuse increases the risk of overdose. Likewise, mixing benzodiazepines with other depressants such as alcohol or heroin increases their psychoactive effects, leading to toxic, potentially fatal reactions.
What Is Benzo Withdrawal?
Benzodiazepine withdrawal occurs when an individual with a physical dependence on these drugs suddenly stops or reduces their use. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially life-threatening, making it important for individuals to seek professional medical help before attempting to quit benzodiazepines.
The duration and severity of benzodiazepine withdrawal will vary depending on factors such as the length of addiction, amount of drug used, and individual differences. Common benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irritability and mood swings
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle aches and pains
- Paranoia
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Intense cravings
It is important to note that abruptly stopping the use of benzodiazepines can be dangerous, and individuals should always seek medical help when attempting to quit. Medical professionals can provide a safe and monitored detox process, as well as support throughout the withdrawal period.
Benzo Withdrawal Timeline
Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome can be categorized into three phases: early withdrawal, acute withdrawal, and post-acute withdrawal. The timeline for each phase may vary from person to person, but generally includes the following:
1 - 4 Days
Early Phase of Benzo Withdrawal
The early phase of benzo withdrawal typically starts within 1 to 4 days after last use, depending on the half-life of the specific drug. During this point in benzo withdrawal, people often experience a moderate level of discomfort as withdrawal symptoms begin to intensify. Symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and muscle tension.
5 - 14 Days
Acute Phase of Benzo Withdrawal
The acute phase of benzo withdrawal typically sets in between days 5 through 14. During this point in benzo detox, people often experience the highest level of discomfort as withdrawal symptoms peak. Symptoms may intensify during this phase and can include nausea, vomiting, and hallucinations.
14+ days
Post-Acute Phase of Benzo Withdrawal
When withdrawal symptoms continue for several weeks or months after stopping benzodiazepine use, they are considered post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS). During the post-acute phase, benzo withdrawal symptoms are significantly less severe in nature. While less severe, PAWS can include mood swings, anxiety, and insomnia.
Self-Assessment: Am I Addicted?
When Do You Need Treatment for Benzo Addiction?
If you’ve developed a psychological dependency on benzo, your brain is chemically reliant on the drug. Benzodiazepine dependence takes control over the decision-making portion of your brain, making it hard to quit.
Seeking treatment for benzodiazepine addiction can be a difficult decision, but it is important to recognize when professional help is needed. Some signs that may indicate the need for treatment include:
- Inability to stop using benzodiazepines despite negative consequences
- Difficulty functioning or fulfilling responsibilities due to benzo abuse
- Increased tolerance and need for higher doses of benzodiazepines
- Experiencing benzos withdrawal symptoms following a period of abstinence
- Continued use of benzodiazepines despite the negative consquences
- Wanting to stop abusing benzos
Treatment for benzo addiction often involves a combination of therapy, medication management, and support groups. It is important to find a treatment program that meets your individual needs and provides ongoing support throughout recovery.
Benzo Detox
To successfully recover from benzo addiction, it is important to undergo detoxification. Trying to detox from benzo alone is psychologically challenging and often leads to relapse. Therefore, it is crucial to seek professional help and support during this process. For this reason, receiving treatment in a quality benzo detox center is the first step in recovery from benzodiazepine addiction and other stimulant use disorders.
While treatment can vary from one facility to the next, quality benzo detox centers provide services such as:
- 24/7 Medical Care
Benzo detox centers provide 24/7 medical care to monitor vital signs and manage withdrawal symptoms including intense cravings, depression, anxiety, and physical discomfort.
- Medication Management
Medications to help alleviate benzo withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse. These may include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and medications specifically for managing drug cravings. Most importantly, benzo detox professionals can provide medications that prevent the onset of life-threatening seizures commonly associated with benzo withdrawal.
- Nutritional Support
Due to the harmful effects of drug abuse, benzo detox centers provide nutrient-rich meals and other dietary supplements to help the body regain itself strength. Many detox programs also provide complementary services such as nutritional counseling and fitness services to support physical wellness.
- Behavioral Therapies
Benzo detox incorporates several intensive therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). These evidence-based therapies assist guests in identifying and process the underlying issues contributing to benzo addiction, such as trauma, stress, or anxiety.
- Addiction Counseling Sessions
Addiction counseling sessions provide evidence-based education on the disease of addiction and the relationship between substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders. Counselors also provide valuable insight and guidance on how to establish and maintain a successful recovery lifestyle.
- Holistic Treatment Services
Benzo detox centers may provide holistic treatment services that incorporate mindfulness skills, relaxation techniques, and physical activity to support overall well-being and aid in recovery. Some examples include yoga, dance/movement therapy, and mindfulness meditation.
Detoxification is an essential part of the recovery process for those struggling with an addiction to benzodiazepines. It provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to overcome physical dependence on the drug and begin addressing underlying issues.
However, detox is just the first step in overcoming benzo addiction. It is important for individuals to continue with ongoing treatment and support to maintain their recovery. This may include therapy, support groups, and lifestyle changes to promote a healthy and balanced life without benzodiazepines.
If you or someone you know is struggling with benzo addiction, do not hesitate to reach out to us at 888-568-5998. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to help you start your journey to recovery today!
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Benzo Detox at Royal Life Centers
Royal life centers at the Haven’s detox protocol ensures that guests withdrawing from benzodiazepine are physically and mentally comfortable as they prepare for recovery. We provide benzo detoxification services to assist individuals struggling with Xanax, Librium, Valium, Ativan, and other benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines leave the body very slowly because metabolites accumulate in the body’s fatty tissues, and tolerance typically develops in those who have been taking a benzodiazepine for upwards of six months. Our detox protocol ensures that guests withdrawing from benzodiazepine are physically and mentally comfortable as they prepare for recovery.
If you have any questions about our program, please contact us by calling 888-568-5998 or filling out our secure contact form. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about our benzo detox program and offer assistance in verifying your insurance coverage for rehab. Because We Care.Because We Care.
Looking for Benzo Detox Services?
If you or someone you love is struggling with benzo addiction, please reach out to us to find out more about how our benzo detox services can help. We work with most private insurance policies and we have affordable self-pay rates if you do not have insurance. Give us a call and we will figure out the best treatment plan for you or your loved one.
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