Millions of people in the United States take prescription drugs to manage mental health and medical conditions. Benzodiazepines are among the most common prescription drugs in the country. People typically take this type of drug to manage anxiety and panic disorders.
Benzodiazepines have the potential for abuse and addiction. People may abuse their prescription drugs or take benzodiazepines recreationally (without a prescription). Benzodiazepine addiction is a severe and complex condition that requires comprehensive treatment and ongoing support.
Early treatment can lead to better outcomes. Recognizing the signs of addiction can help you seek treatment for benzodiazepine addiction.
This article will outline seven common signs of benzodiazepine addiction. You will learn:
- The effects and risks of benzodiazepine addiction
- How to recognize signs of benzodiazepine dependence
- What to expect from a substance use disorder (SUD) treatment program
- Where to find comprehensive treatment programs
If you or someone you love struggles with benzodiazepine abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Find effective, compassionate treatment at The Living Room. Contact our intake team to explore our holistic rehab and support programs. You may also contact us to verify your insurance coverage and schedule an intake appointment.
The Effects and Risks of Benzodiazepine Addiction
Benzodiazepines are a type of prescription medication that can slow central nervous system (CNS) activity. Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines to help patients manage:
- Anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Insomnia
- Alcohol withdrawal
People who abuse benzodiazepines may develop physical or psychological dependence or addiction to them. Doctors usually prescribe these drugs for short-term use. This can limit the risk of addiction.
Like many medications, benzodiazepines have the potential to cause side effects. Some common side effects of benzodiazepines include:
- Mood changes
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Slurred speech
- Aggression
- Poor coordination
These side effects are most common among people who abuse benzodiazepines.
Recognizing the Signs of Benzodiazepine Addiction
Benzodiazepine abuse can lead to addiction. Recognizing the signs of benzodiazepine addiction can help you get treatment as quickly as possible.
Here are seven signs of benzodiazepine addiction.
1. Cravings
People who abuse benzos for a long time may develop physical dependence. If they stop using them, they may experience intense, persistent cravings. This may be a sign that their bodies cannot function without benzodiazepines.
2. Tolerance
Long periods of benzodiazepine abuse can lead to tolerance. Tolerance occurs when the body adjusts to a specific dose of a drug. People who develop tolerance require higher doses of a drug to get the desired effects. Tolerance is a sign of physical addiction.
3. Neglecting responsibilities
People with benzo addiction may neglect their responsibilities at home, work, or school. They may isolate themselves, ignore hobbies, and disengage from their relationships. Sudden changes in a person’s behaviors or ability to function could signal substance abuse or addiction.
4. Taking risks
People may do risky things while using benzodiazepines. They may drive while high, have unprotected sex, use drugs while working, or do illegal things to get more. New or unusual risk-taking behaviors could be a sign of addiction.
5. Time and energy
People who are addicted to benzodiazepines may spend a lot of time and energy getting more. They may lose sight of long-term goals or fall behind on responsibilities as benzo abuse becomes the center of their lives.
People may also have anxiety about running out of their prescription medication. They may start “doctor shopping,” meaning they have more than one prescription for benzos from multiple doctors. These are clear signs that someone is abusing benzos and may become addicted to them.
6. Withdrawal symptoms
People with physical dependence on benzodiazepines may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using them. Symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal include:
- Tremors
- Loss of appetite
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Agitation
- Excessive sweating
- Insomnia
Withdrawing from benzodiazepines typically isn’t life-threatening, but it can be a sign of addiction.
7. Exhibiting side effects
You may notice someone exhibiting the signs of benzodiazepine abuse, including dizziness, aggression, or slurred speech. Noticing new behaviors or side effects could signal an addiction that requires treatment.
If you or someone in your life shows signs of benzodiazepine addiction, seek treatment as quickly as possible. The sooner you get help, the sooner you can begin to work toward a healthier future.
What to Expect in Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment
Benzodiazepine addiction treatment is available in several levels of care, including:
- Medical detox programs
- Inpatient and residential programs
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP)
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP)
- Outpatient rehab programs
People may spend just a few days or up to 12 months or more engaging in treatment. Benzodiazepine addiction treatment programs offer evidence-based therapies to address the roots of substance abuse. These may include:
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Behavioral and mental health therapies
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Relapse prevention education
- Nutrition support, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies
- Aftercare planning and support
Recovering from benzodiazepine addiction can be challenging. Comprehensive treatment and support can help. Get treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of substance abuse or addiction.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with benzodiazepine abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at The Living Room to learn about our holistic treatment and recovery support programs.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Benzodiazepines: Uses, Dangers, and Clinical Considerations
- Science Direct: Exploring clinical applications and long-term effectiveness of benzodiazepines: An integrated perspective on mechanisms, imaging, and personalized medicine
- JAMA Network: Risks and Benefits of Benzodiazepines