While benzodiazepines can be helpful in treating anxiety, benzo abuse is also a serious problem. Benzos are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States, and they are also one of the most commonly abused. Benzo abuse can lead to addiction, and it can be very difficult to quit taking these drugs once you start. There are a few signs that may indicate someone is abusing benzos.
A benzo addiction treatment program can help you overcome your addiction and get your life back on track. Recovery Bay Center’s men’s addiction treatment program includes a range of evidence-based and holistic treatment modalities to help you heal your body, mind, and soul. Our program is designed to help you build a foundation for long-term recovery. If you’re ready to learn more, connect with our team today at 833.991.2955.
How Benzodizepine Addiction Develops
Benzodiazepines, also called benzos, are a class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants. This means they slow down the function of the brain and the body. They are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world, and they are used to treat conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Benzos work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which increases the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. This leads to a feeling of relaxation and calm.
Common benzos include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), and diazepam (Valium). Benzos are typically only meant to be used for a short period of time, as they can be addictive and cause dependence.
Dependence develops when the brain starts to rely on benzos to function. This can happen after just a few weeks of taking benzos. When someone becomes dependent on benzos, they will start to experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop taking the drug. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and may even lead to seizures.
The Most Common Signs of Benzo Abuse
Since benzos are often legally prescribed by a doctor, it can be difficult to tell if someone is abusing them. However, there are a few signs that may indicate benzo abuse. These include:
- Tolerance – When someone is abusing benzos, they will start to build up a tolerance to the drug. This means they will need to take higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effects.
- Withdrawal symptoms – When an individual who is abusing this substance tries to stop taking benzos, they will experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and headaches.
- Using benzos in dangerous situations – People who abuse benzos may take them in dangerous situations, such as when they are driving or operating heavy machinery.
- Taking benzos for non-medical reasons – One of the most common signs of benzo abuse is taking the drug for non-medical reasons, such as to get high or to cope with stress.
Any use of benzos outside of a doctor’s recommendation is considered abuse. If you or someone you love is showing any of these signs, it’s important to get help as soon as possible.
Find Help for Benzo Abuse at Recovery Bay Center
A benzo addiction treatment program can help you overcome your addiction and get your life back on track. Recovery Bay Center’s men’s addiction treatment program includes a range of evidence-based and holistic treatment modalities to help you break free from benzo abuse and build a foundation for long-term recovery. We support our patients every step of the way on the journey to sobriety.
Connect with our team today to learn more about how we can help you or your loved one recover. Lasting, sustainable recovery is possible. Call 833.991.2955 or reach out online to get started.
