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Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment

At Immersive Recovery, we offer professional and effective treatment programs to help those suffering from benzodiazepine misuse and benzo addiction. Located near San Diego in Encinitas, California, our substance abuse treatment center provides comprehensive care through our various programs and therapeutic models, equipping our clients with the support they need to become and remain free from substance misuse.

Individuals in California who are suffering from prescription drug addiction can explore our benzodiazepine addiction treatment options to learn more about how we can help. Whether through medical detox, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), or any of our outpatient programs, we are here to assist struggling men and help them pursue freedom and healing.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs that act as central nervous system depressants. They are prescription medications that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Benzos work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity, leading to relaxation, sedation, and anxiety reduction. However, they also carry a risk of dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms if used for an extended period or misused.

Common benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).

man with benzo addiction sitting on couch

How Benzo Use Can Lead to Addiction

Benzodiazepine abuse can lead to dependency and addiction due to several factors:

Tolerance

With continued use, the body may develop a tolerance to the effects of benzodiazepines. This means that over time, higher doses are needed to achieve the same therapeutic effects, increasing the risk of dependence.

Physical Dependence

Prolonged use of benzodiazepines can lead to physical dependence, where the body becomes reliant on the drug to function normally. Abrupt cessation or reduction of dosage can result in withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and uncomfortable, leading individuals to continue using the drug to avoid withdrawal.

Psychological Dependence

In addition to physical dependence, individuals may also develop psychological dependence on benzodiazepines. This occurs when they rely on the drug to cope with stress, anxiety, or other emotional issues. Over time, the individual may feel unable to function without the drug, leading to continued use despite negative consequences.

Misuse and Recreational Use

Benzodiazepines can produce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, leading some individuals to misuse them for non-medical purposes or to enhance the effects of other drugs. This misuse can increase the risk of addiction.

Co-occurring Disorders

Men with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or mood disorders may be at higher risk of benzodiazepine addiction, as they may find relief from their symptoms through benzodiazepine use and become reliant on the drug to manage their condition.

Overall, the combination of tolerance, physical and psychological dependence, misuse, and co-occurring disorders can contribute to the development of benzodiazepine addiction. It’s essential for individuals prescribed benzodiazepines to use them as directed by their healthcare provider and to be aware of the potential risks associated with long-term use.

Signs and Symptoms of Benzo Addiction

Signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction can vary depending on individual factors such as the duration and dosage of use, but common signs to look out for include

Increased Tolerance

Needing higher doses of benzodiazepines over time to achieve the desired effects or experiencing diminished effects with regular doses.

Physical Dependence

Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to reduce or stop benzodiazepine use, such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, sweating, nausea, and seizures.

Obsessive Thoughts

Spending a significant amount of time thinking about obtaining and using benzodiazepines, to the detriment of other activities and responsibilities.

Continued Use Despite Negative Consequences

Continuing to use benzodiazepines despite experiencing negative consequences in personal relationships, work, school, or legal issues.

Loss of Control

Feeling unable to control or stop benzodiazepine use, even when recognizing its harmful effects.

Cravings

Strong urges or cravings to use benzodiazepines, especially in situations where they are unavailable.

Social Isolation

Withdrawing from social activities or relationships in favor of using benzodiazepines or due to the consequences of addiction.

Doctor Shopping

Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors or obtaining benzodiazepines through illicit means to maintain a supply.

Changes in Behavior

Displaying changes in behavior, mood swings, irritability, agitation, or aggression.

Neglect of Responsibilities

Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to benzodiazepine use.

Financial Problems

Experiencing financial difficulties due to spending excessive amounts of money on benzodiazepines.

Loss of Interest in Hobbies or Activities

Losing interest in activities or hobbies that were previously enjoyable in favor of using benzodiazepines.

It’s important to note that experiencing one or more of these signs does not necessarily indicate Benzo addiction, but if you or someone you know is exhibiting several of these symptoms, it may mean there is a problem that requires professional help. In such cases, it’s crucial to seek support from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist for assessment and professional benzodiazepine addiction treatment.

Understanding the Effects of Benzodiazepine Abuse

Benzodiazepine abuse can have short-term and long-term effects on both physical and mental health:

Short-term effects:

  • Agitation
  • Lethargy
  • Dizziness
  • Impulsivity
  • Impaired motor skills
  • Impaired coordination
  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Respiratory depression
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Slurred speech
  • Aggression

Long-term effects

  • Withdrawal
  • Physical dependence
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Tolerance

Benzodiazepine abuse can also exacerbate or contribute to mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. It’s important to seek medical help if you or someone you know is struggling with benzodiazepine abuse to prevent further complications and receive appropriate treatment and support.

Benzo Withdrawal Effects and Symptoms

The effects of the benzo withdrawal process can vary in severity and duration, depending on factors such as the dosage, duration of use, individual physiology, and whether the withdrawal is abrupt or gradual.

Common symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal include:

  • Anxiety
  • Tremors
  • Sweating
  • Insomnia
  • Muscle pain and stiffness
  • Gastrointestinal disturbances
  • Changes in blood pressure
  • Changes in heart rate
  • Hallucinations
  • Headaches
  • Seizures

Seeking medical assistance to help in managing withdrawal symptoms is vital. The withdrawal process can be challenging and potentially dangerous, especially in cases of severe or prolonged withdrawal. A benzodiazepine addiction treatment center can provide guidance and support, as well as potentially prescribe medications or tapering schedules to help people safely withdraw from the use of benzos.

The Immersive Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Program

Here at Immersive Recovery, we offer various benzodiazepine addiction treatment programs to help our clients safely overcome drug abuse.

happy man after benzodiazepine rehab near san diegoMedical Detox and Medication-Assisted Treatment Program

The benzodiazepine detox process can be difficult and, in some cases, life-threatening. With medical supervision, individuals can safely end benzo use and begin the long-term recovery process.

Outpatient Treatment Program

We offer a general outpatient benzodiazepine addiction treatment program to help men break free from substance use disorder. We also offer intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs as part of our continuum of care.

Addiction Therapy Services

At Immersive Recovery, we believe support groups and counseling can make all the difference as part of someone’s continuing care plan. This means during and after treatment. We offer a variety of evidence-based addiction therapy services, including individual therapy, group therapy, DBT, CBT, family therapy, EMDR, and adventure therapy.

Let Immersive Recovery Help You!

If you are suffering from prescription drug addiction, let Immersive Recovery’s benzodiazepine addiction treatment center in Encinitas, CA, help you break free today. Simply contact us and let the journey to recovery begin! We’re standing by to assist you on the road to a better and healthier life.

Visit Us

2236 Encinitas Blvd Suite D,
Encinitas, CA 92024

619-257-1427

619-257-1427

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