#benzo withdrawal

[bipolar-moon]

I'm losing my mind.

Been suffering from benzo withdrawal for almost 2 months now. I think. I stopped counting.

Starting tapering by 1/8 of a mg on March 1st. I decrease the amount every 2 weeks. I'm not at the point where I'm almost completely off of it. Only a few days left.

So far, I've experienced:

agitation

irritability

increased anxiety

flu-like symptoms for a few days after about 3 weeks of tapering

muscle tension

mild nausea

muscle jerking

restless leg syndrome

probably other things that I'm forgetting

those last 2 symptoms (#9 not included) are the most prevalent right now. The only real reason I'm writing this is because my phone is updating and I don't have anyone to talk to about this. But I NEED to talk about this, even if it's just to myself in journal form. and I'm currently being driven up the wall by the nerves in my right leg. It feels like electricity is shooting around my kneecap and down to my ankle. This is the most uncomfortable I've been since the early withdrawal symptoms.

Early on I found someone via Twitter who has gone through the same thing as me, and I've since adopted her as my "sponsor", for lack of a better term. She's been very helpful. I feel very lucky to have her help me along this journey.

This is the second time I've attempted to taper off klonopin. The first time I failed after 2 weeks. About a year and a half before that, I had experienced pretty bad withdrawal symptoms after running out of meds for 36 or so hours.

I'm tired of these symptoms. They're not nearly as bad as I was expecting, probably due to tapering so slowly. But it's still hell.

As I sit here, super uncomfortable, moving my leg every 30 seconds to feel the least bit more comfortable, I remind myself how easy it would be to just take my previous full dose and have all of this over with. Just go back to normal. Sure, I'd become a slave to this drug again, but I'd have my sanity and my comfort back.

I've been on klonopin for 7-8 years. I didn't want to get off of it. My psychiatrist insisted. I thought about getting a new one. The long-term effects scared me, but so did the withdrawals. Now I'm in limbo. I have been since March 1, 2023. I'm frustrated.

To give up is so tempting.

#klonopin #drugs tw #drug blog #withdrawal symptoms #withdrawal tw #benzo withdrawal #benzo addiction #benzodiazepam #kpins #dependance #tw substances #substance dependence #rehabilitation #tapering #drug relapse #venting #life update

[styroz]

"Got bitches who told me put down the drugs but I'd rather be loaded then falling in love"

#g59 #suicideboys #scrim #xanax #xanax withdrawal #withdrawal #drug withdrawal #benzo withdrawal #benzo

[sewercentipede]

lorazepam, for about 2 years, almost everyday, 1,5-2mg per day

ty for answering :)

ofc! :) just bear in mind that the following advice is coming to you from an internet stranger who—while having experienced a longterm benzo addiction, has successfully tapered off benzos, and has researched how to do it safely—is not a doctor or medical professional of any kind.

ok this post got super long and I just figured out how to put a “read more” cut on mobile woohoo!

so do u take it once a day or multiple times a day that add up to 1.5-2mg?

also l forgot to ask what do you take it for? panic attacks or GAD or other anxiety related disorder, or recreationally? when u say that it doesn’t work anymore do you mean it has absolutely zero effect on ur anxiety? or if you use it recreationally is 2mg not producing any effects whatsoever?

basically what ur wanting to do is take a tolerance break from benzodiazepines so that they work without you having to take larger and larger doses…since cold turkey quitting benzos can be lethal, and 2 years of a strong benzo like lorazepam daily is not insignificant, slowly tapering is the safest way to go about this.

lorazepam (and alprazolam) is not ideal for tapering though, due to its short half life and its high strength. long-acting benzos are best for tapering, particularly diazepam. clonazepam, while long lasting, is not the best because of its strength, but it’s better than loraz and alp. so If you have access to a long-acting benzo, that will make it easier to taper for the purpose of a tolerance break. if not, u can still make it work.

if ur taking loraz for any of the above mentioned anxiety disorders, i would first find the lowest possible dose that you can tolerate by lowering the dosage by 0.25mg every week, until you’ve hit the lowest possible dosage you can tolerate. then take it only when ur anxiety symptoms are to the point of being intolerable and stay at that dose for at least a week, ideally 2 or more weeks. lowest possible dosage means you will still experience anxiety and still find it mentally/emotionally uncomfortable (and probably have trouble sleeping well). if u hit a dose where ur experiencing any kind of muscle tremors or spasms or restless legs or skin-crawling, thats too low, increase the dosage by 0.25mg until that stops, and then don’t exceed that dose.

if ur taking it recreationally do the same thing, except take it the same frequency you’ve been taking it. (or less frequently as long as you don’t experience the physical wd symptoms I mentioned)… just make sure not to take it more frequently to compensate otherwise it’s pointless.

after taking that lowest tolerable dose for 2 weeks, do it (tapering by 0.25mg each week) again. and keep doing that until you hit zero. how quickly u get to zero is gonna depend on ur symptoms (its different for everyone). main thing is we want to avoid any withdrawal symptoms that involve muscle spasms, muscle tremors, panic attacks, or severe skin crawling sensation. when u hit zero stay there for at least 1-2 weeks. congrats! you’ve now successfully taken a tolerance break. id try to make this t-break go for as long as possible, 1 week is honestly super generous as a minimum it should be at least 2, but ur not taking mega doses.

I feel like after 2 weeks of no benzos, after doing a slow taper to get to that point, once you start taking them again you’ll notice your tolerance is lower(so you won’t need 1.5-2mg to feel anything so take less than that to start).

on the other hand, if u get panic attacks and taking 1.5-2mg does absolutely *nothing* to alleviate them, then unfortunately that means u need a higher dose than what ur on rn. but don’t fuck around and wreck ur tolerance more by doing this unless absolutely necessary (meaning only take the higher dose when you need it for a panic attack).

yeeeeeeesh sorry this got so long.

More important than what I’ve written here, this is the Ashton manual. it tells you everything you need to know about benzo tapering and exactly how to do it. so save this pdf, check out the table of contents to find the relevant chapters, read it, and if any of my advice contradicts the advice written in this manual, go with what the manual says. this is the protocol that anyone who needs to taper off a benzo for any reason after longterm use should follow.

If it sounds like I’m being overly cautious…it’s cause I kinda am. I have no idea how your body will react to dose changes or suddenly having a lower seizure threshold, and I don’t want to risk you having a seizure (and I’m sure you don’t want to either!)

Could I have just linked the Ashton manual instead of writing any of this? Probably. but my dumb ass didn’t think to do that until this moment 🥲

anyway, good luck, and if u have any more questions, my ask box is always open !

#benzodiazepines #benzos #drugs #ashton manual #drug addiction #tapering #long post #addiction resources #addiction recovery #addiction #benzo withdrawal

[wolfstones]

benzo withdrawal is horrible. i feel like dogshit. my psych is on holiday and after a week of hounding the clinic and with great relief another psychiatrist sent me a hefty clonazepam script which i nozedived into. i dont know what i’d do other than begging my gp which i dont see til thursday to prescribe me. anyway its sorted thank god and i can start feeling better but what awful days of inner turmoil feeling like im shaking all over sick and achey like a junkie off heroin. benzo wd is no joke. i wouldnt wish it upon anyone. had i not got this script i dont think id be able to work. 

thank you random psychiatrist at the clinic for saving my life.

#notes #benzodiazepines #benzo withdrawal

[psychdrugwd]

#psych drug wd #benzo withdrawal

[banyantelehealth]

Navigating Benzodiazepine Addiction: The Power of Online Treatment

Benzodiazepines, commonly prescribed to alleviate anxiety and insomnia, can sometimes lead individuals down a path of dependence and addiction. In this blog, we delve into the nuanced signs of benzo addiction while shedding light on the invaluable advantages of telehealth treatment options.

Signs of Benzo Addiction

One of the primary indicators of benzodiazepine addiction is the development of tolerance. This means that over time, higher and higher doses of the drug are required to achieve the same effects. It's a concerning phenomenon that often goes unnoticed until it reaches a critical point.

Others signs can include:

Withdrawal Symptoms: Anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and tremors when attempting to quit.

Non-Medical Use: Taking benzos without prescription for recreational or stress relief purposes.

Time and Money Commitment: Significant resources spent on buying and using benzodiazepines.

Neglecting Responsibilities: Priorities at work, school, or home take a back seat due to benzo abuse.

Ignoring Consequences: Continued use despite relationship strain, health issues, or legal problems.

Risky Behaviors: Engaging in activities like driving under the influence of benzos.

Online Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment

Online benzo addiction treatment stands as a beacon of hope for those whose circumstances hinder traditional in-person appointments. This mode of treatment, facilitated through digital platforms, accommodates individuals facing various constraints like long commutes, physical disabilities, or time limitations. It bridges the gap, ensuring access to vital support.

Therapeutic Techniques

The treatment regimen encompasses a diverse array of therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Mindfulness-Based Services. These sessions unfold via confidential video conferencing, online chat, or phone calls, connecting individuals with licensed therapists or counselors in a secure and supportive environment.

Self-Help Resources

Complementing the therapeutic sessions are self-help resources, including online support groups and educational materials. These invaluable tools equip individuals with strategies to manage cravings, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and fortify against relapse. It's a comprehensive approach that empowers individuals in their journey towards lasting recovery.

Considerations

While online benzo rehab proves to be an effective option for many, it's imperative to acknowledge that it may not be universally applicable. Individuals grappling with severe substance use or mental health disorders might find inpatient care to be a more suitable path to regaining their health and well-being. Consulting with a licensed healthcare professional is paramount, ensuring a tailored approach that aligns with individual needs.

Conclusion

Online benzodiazepine addiction treatment emerges as a flexible and accessible lifeline for those on the path to recovery. By recognizing the signs of addiction and exploring the benefits of telehealth options, individuals take a significant step towards a healthier, addiction-free life. The journey to recovery is one that is supported, empowered, and personalized, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.

#benzodiazepine #benzo addiction #benzo withdrawal #telehealth #addiction treatment

[thr3shold]

god help me

#benzo withdrawal

[unofficialchronicle]

Detailed information by English psychiatrist Dr. Ashton on Benzodiazepines (like Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium) and how to safely withdraw from them.

This monograph contains information about the effects that benzodiazepines have on the brain and body and how these actions are exerted. Detailed suggestions on how to withdraw after long-term use and individual tapering schedules for different benzodiazepines are provided. Withdrawal symptoms, acute and protracted, are described along with an explanation of why they may occur and how to cope with them. The overall message is that most long-term benzodiazepine users who wish to can withdraw successfully and become happier and healthier as a result.

.

Dr. Ashton is considered one of the leading voices on Benzodiazepines. She has published approximately 250 papers in professional journals, books and chapters in books on psychotropic drugs of which over 50 concern benzodiazepines.

#benzo withdrawal #benzodiazepam #withdrawl #resources #healthy withdrawl #trevor resources #therapist

[dollwithkaleidoscopeeyes]

pretty sure what’s been causing my uptick in mental health problems is Benzo withdrawal. Im so irritable and sad and foggy headed. I’m fucking over this shit.

#benzo withdrawal #it’s mental illness innit

[anotherpapercut]

literally so funny how internet leftists will be like "ummm actually using drugs is bad and evil and destroying society (I know bc the us govt and/or some random conspiracy theorist told me so 😌) and anyone who thinks we should end the stigma around drug use and try to make it safer for users is actually just trying to destroy America" but then they'll also turn right around and go "don't forget to take your meds!!! remember if you can't make your own dopamine store bought is fine ❤️. end the stigma around needing lifelong medication!!!"

like girl are you somehow laboring under the delusion that like xanax is safer and more effective at treating mental illness than LSD or ketamine or even like MDMA bc boy do I have some news for you

#this is us focused bc thats where i live and where i have encountered drug culture #i am sure similar or even the same dynamics exist elsewhere but since i dont know the nuances ill let them speak for themselves #like imagine thinking doctors are more trustworthy than ur average street dealer 😐 could NOT be me #dealers i know would never just prescribe incredibly dangerous drugs at dangerous doses on such a mass scale #that sanctions actually have to be placed on them which prevent them from PRESCRIBING MEDS TO PEOPLE #i just dont have the us medical system boot lodged inside my throat i guess #bitches will be like 'im really concerned about your weed intake' and not say a damn word abt my Klonopin which is FAR more dangerous #benzo withdrawals are no fucking joke. you can die if you do it wrong. the 'withdrawals' people report w weed are literally just like. #irritability and nausea. which in every person ive ever met was not actually withdrawals but just a result if them being stressed #bc they were no longer using weed to relax lmfao. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ whatever tho yall just keep on trustin Mr. Richard Nixon #anyway if ur depressed pop a molly. i have never felt happiness like molly happiness

[styroz]

"My money always gone. Prolly from all the drugs caught in my palm, slide them down my throat and swallow without water"

#g59 #suicideboys #scrim #drug withdrawal #withdrawal #xanax #xanax withdrawal #benzo #benzo withdrawal #lyrics

[ovaruling]

hate post for nocturnal panic attacks that wake girls up in the middle of the njght for NO REASONand make them think they’re dying or having a heart attack and it doesn’t even go away during the next day and then it just starts again and is neverending!!!!!

#i hate you so much nocturnal panic attacks you’re honestly ruining my life #i broke down and started xanax but like. i cant be taking this #rly cant do another round of benzo dependency and withdrawal in this lifetime #but like i literally cannot function and am terrified to sleep rn w these attacks so. lesser of 2 evils ig

[nastyaisfighting]

Day 6 being clean from benzos. (I started this blog after few days later of starting recovery, so don't be surprised why there is day 6) For unknown reason start of recovery is always a lot hard for me, especially now when I have drug withdrawal. I didn't normally eat in 3 days, only little snacks and I lost few pounds because of it. I can't normally fall asleep and at nights I have really bad times when I have anxiety and paranoia episodes. I hear always some hallucinated sounds of bugs... It's so terrifying for me. I have phobia from bugs and even now when I think of them I want to scream. At nights I'm mostly talking to one of my alters, because I do not really have a lot of friends... and I'm sure no one wants to hear my shits. So I'm just by myself with my people in my head... But it's hard. I wish someone actually understand me how I feel and just talked to me about it and stuff. I feel so... misunderstood by others. Like I say something what they don't get. Like I say something what makes me be more and more in role of 'weirdo'... So yeah. You're right. I feel actually lonely. I want to cry and scream, but I have no one who would listen to me. So I'm just having all day some different episodes of each of emotions. Mostly angry because everything annoys me. Especially today. My young dog woke me up at 4am after me sleeping only 2 hours! I was so angry at him. I can't hold my feelings, so after that I felt a bit guilty and cried... Weird shit is happening with me while I'm on drug withdrawal. I read that my peak of this shit circus will be next week... Well, next week I drive away to Italy, where I already will be in rehab. It's gonna be interesting... I hope I won't have peak of it in car while traveling, because it would be very difficult. Sigh... I hope it's gonna be better soon...

#feelings #vent #vent ig #venting #vent blog #recovery #recovery attempt #recovery blog #start of recovery #drug withdrawal #help pls #:/// why #benzo baby #benzo addiction #benzo recovery #tw drugs #war on drugs #love and other drugs #narcotics drugs #I'm tired #drug rehab

[child-of-leviathan]

I'm trying to quit smoking weed since it's been making me feel shittier more and more often the last months. Been avoiding that reality because when I'm not high I almost forget, but when I'm high it swallows me and brings me too far into my head which is what I want to escape. Yet I really want a fuckin joint now and I know what the result will be

#i slept like shit because if i dont smoke a bit before sleeping uhhh #well im waking up way too much so not getting rest #if cold turkey i get night sweats and more nightmares #so im trying to keep it just before sleeping for now #i have finals in a little less than two weeks so really don't need more withdrawals than i already have form benzos #can someone give me a non-addict brain pls? thanks #personal

[psychdrugwd]

#benzo withdrawal #Youtube

[1l171]

i took another diazepam bc im so dione w everythig

#withdrawal #text #vent #ventcore #tw depressing stuff #su1c1d4l #꒰ఎ ♥︎ ໒꒱ #drugs tw #c0ke #coca?ne #drug addict #drug addikt #diazepam #valium #benzos