The use of benzos can be highly pleasurable at first. However, benzo addiction inevitably will negatively impact health, career, and relationships. Read on to learn more about the signs of benzo addiction and to get information on contacting the addiction treatment program at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge.
What Is Benzo Addiction?
Before determining if you may have a benzo addiction, it’s essential first to know what benzos are. Benzodiazepines, or benzos commonly known, are prescription drugs doctors use to treat various medical conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, and seizures. Some of the most common types of benzos include Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, and Atavan. Because these medications are depressants, they slow down communication between the brain and the body, giving the body a sedating effect. Sometimes this high is desirable to someone who wishes to escape reality, such as with the loss of a job, a sudden new behavioral health diagnosis, or COVID-19-related trauma.
Benzodiazepines are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. Therefore, benzo addiction is more common than you may think. Benzo addiction occurs when a client uses benzodiazepines beyond the prescribed time or dosage it was meant initially. As a result, a dependency on the high or sedating effect begins to take hold. You may feel like your benzos use within your control. However, benzos can be highly toxic and alter your perception of reality. Therefore, if your loved ones have noticed a change in your usual demeanor, it might be time to seek help.
Signs of Benzo Addiction
It can be disheartening to realize when you exhibit signs of benzo addiction, especially when you feel that you need them to cope with life struggles. The use of benzodiazepines must be closely monitored to prevent the further abuse of depressants. Expected symptoms of benzos include lightheadedness, blurred vision, confusion, and lack of motor control. Meanwhile, signs and symptoms of benzo abuse include:
- Isolating from friends and family
- No longer engaging in enjoyable activities
- Withdrawal from social situations
- Memory difficulties
- Visiting several doctors to acquire multiple prescriptions
Due to this class of drugs, benzo misuse can be intentional or accidental. It can also swiftly lead to addiction or, worse, an overdose. Consequently, you have the opportunity to take the first step in moving away from benzo abuse and moving toward prioritizing your well-being.
The Dangers of Benzos
The dangers of benzos are easy to overlook when you are deep in addiction. Therefore, you must seek professional help immediately if you exhibit any of the above symptoms or if a loved one shows concern for your well-being. Suppose your benzo use occurs with other substance use issues such as alcohol, then benzo addiction catapults into a life or death situation. Benzos used without a treatment plan can lead to chronic abuse or overdose. Most importantly, you shouldn’t feel shame when addiction is a mental health concern that is diagnosable and treatable. Seek support from Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge today to escape benzos’ hold on your life.
Seek Benzo Addiction Treatment at Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge
You deserve a life of healing free from the dangers of benzodiazepine addiction. Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge can help get you there through various programs they offer. Our team provides a full continuum of care for a diverse clientele with a wide range of treatment programs. Treatment options include inpatient and outpatient care, including community service options. Call Pennsylvania Adult and Teen Challenge today at 844.442.8673 and allow yourself to end benzo addiction and lead a fulfilling sober life.
