Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms: How Detox and Treatment Can Help You Recover

Benzodiazepines, or benzos for short, are typically prescribed for issues like anxiety, insomnia, and panic disorders. While they are highly effective when used for short-term, there is a high risk of developing dependence when used for extended periods. Those who have used it for weeks, months, or years will likely have benzo withdrawal symptoms when quitting. You should seek professional help to alleviate these highly uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms. Tranquillity Recovery Center, as one of the prime detox centers in San Fernando Valley, can help you not only overcome the symptoms of benzo withdrawal but also learn skills and coping mechanisms that can help you face any mental health issues in the future.

Understanding Benzo Dependence

Benzos are central nervous system depressants, and as such, they work by increasing the effect of GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms the brain down. Benzodiazepines like Xanax, Ativan, Valium, and Klonopin are commonly prescribed for issues with sleep and anxiety. They offer quick relief, but prolonged use can create brain chemical imbalances and make it hard to function without them.

What happens is that, over time, the body builds tolerance. This sort of tolerance implies that you will either start taking benzos more frequently or in higher doses to achieve the same effect. Eventually, you will develop dependence, both physical and psychological. This can happen both due to intentional and unintentional (self-medication) misuse. 

Regardless of how dependence developed, if you try to cease use, you will undoubtedly experience benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms. Most are just uncomfortable, but some are dangerous and even deadly, so detoxing should be done with professional help.

Common Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms

After prolonged use and especially if the dependence has developed, significantly reducing the amount of benzos or abruptly stopping their use will result in various withdrawal symptoms. They can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening. Its severity depends on several factors, including the dosage, duration of use, and individual health.

So, what are benzo detox symptoms?

Physical benzo withdrawal symptoms include:

• Sleep disturbances (e.g., insomnia)
• Muscle pain, tremors, and headaches
• High blood pressure and heart palpitations
• Increased sweating
•  Sensitivity to light or sound

Psychological withdrawal symptoms can manifest as:

• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Depression and intrusive thoughts
• Mood swings  and irritability

Severe and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms refer to:

• Hallucinations or psychosis
• Seizures
• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Withdrawal dysphoria 

What is benzodiazepine withdrawal dysphoria?

This is a deep, persistent sadness or emotional numbness that can make daily functioning practically impossible 

Why Medical Detox is Essential

Although in the majority of cases, the withdrawal symptoms are only uncomfortable, they tend to be overwhelming. Typically, your body and mind are not prepared to handle it. We recommend a slow, supervised taper to lessen the likelihood of these benzo withdrawal symptoms becoming overwhelming. This approach, however, can only be implemented by licensed medical staff, which you can find in professional facilities like the Tranquility Recovery Center.

Gradual tapering paired with medicine-assisted detox is sure to provide comfort and ensure lifelong results. It’s a recommended practice as a standalone treatment or as part of drug rehab in San Fernando Valley.

The Role of Treatment After Detox

Medicine-assisted detox is an important first step in treating your dependence on benzodiazepines. However, typically, detox alone is insufficient, and you need a well-rounded benzo addiction treatment in Los Angeles. 

• You can benefit from individual therapy for addiction treatment, as it makes you face the underlying causes of your dependence and helps you build new coping mechanisms for better functioning and dealing with pain or stress in the future.
• Family and peer support are also important, so you might be included in various group therapy sessions. The most important thing is for you to feel supported, so building a strong community is essential. 
• We will encourage you to make lifestyle changes. Learning new habits can help you rediscover life without benzos. Sometimes, even small changes go a long way.

How Tranquility Recovery Center Can Help

You can rely on Tranquility Recovery Center to support your recovery journey. We understand that each dependency and addiction story is different, and therefore each of our clients deserves an individual approach to treatment. While we have different well-rounded programs, we strive to customize each of them to address your needs, circumstances, and preferences.

Here is what you can expect if you opt for professional detox at Tranquility Recovery Center:

• Treatment programs tailored to your needs, particular challenges, and triggers.
• Evidence-based and holistic therapies to equally care for your body, mind, and spirit.
• Experienced staff that is both compassionate and knowledgeable.
• 24/7 care and medical assistance, as well as access to various resources and amenities.
• A healing environment.
• Continuous support even after your treatment is done.

We at the Tranquility Recovery Center have years of experience treating addictions and mental health problems, as well as dual diagnosis when these two conditions co-occur. If you recognize early signs of addiction or mental health struggles in yourself or your loved ones, seek professional support. Tranquility Recovery Center will be here to guide you on your way to a clean life under your control.

Find Support Today

While recovering from benzodiazepines is challenging, with the right support, it is possible. Professional care from a trusted recovery partner can make all the difference. The right combination of medical support, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help you reclaim your life.

Tranquility Recovery Center can support you and guide you. Our professional detox program will ensure you overcome benzo withdrawal symptoms and set a solid base for lifelong recovery. Call us and let your healing start today.