Benzodiazepines or benzos are medications that doctors prescribe to treat anxiety, panic disorders, seizures, and other manic and depressive episodes. Unfortunately, as effective as they are in treating certain mental health disorders, benzos can also be highly addictive.
At Crossroads Maine, we understand the delicate balance between mental health treatment and developing an addiction to benzos. Learn more about the treatment options available to you or a loved one online or by calling 877.978.1667.
Side Effects Of Benzodiazepines
Mental health professionals often prescribe benzos because of their calming effect. They directly impact the central nervous system, bringing about extreme feelings of relaxation, and the body quickly becomes dependent on them. Many clients may appreciate the escape that benzos offer and the temporary relief they receive while using them to treat their mental health disorders. Unfortunately, as effective as they are, clients often find that they need to take more of the medication to get the same effect. Their use also has other side effects and can cause life-threatening physical ailments and conditions. While everyone reacts to medications differently, the following are common side effects of benzodiazepine use:
- Drowsiness and dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Muscle weakness
- Difficulty with memory and recall
- Blurred vision and nausea
Despite the many benefits of using benzos as a medication for mental health treatment, their use can lead to physical and psychological dependence and addiction.
Signs Of Addiction
Unfortunately, due to its highly addictive nature, addiction to benzos can quickly and easily result in a heightened risk of overdose. At first, the body develops a tolerance during which the brain becomes accustomed to the drug and needs more to receive the same familiar and comfortable relief. As it becomes increasingly dependent on the drug, in addition to generic side effects, other signs and symptoms may emerge, including:
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Doctor shopping
- Anxiety
- Anorexia
- Asking loved ones for their benzodiazepines
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy For Benzo Addiction
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an effective and often used treatment for addiction to benzodiazepines. Women who struggle with a benzo addiction will learn to identify their triggers. They can then implement coping mechanisms to ensure that they remain on the road to recovery and long-term sobriety. Women can also practice using distraction, meditation, and relaxation techniques to cope with withdrawal symptoms during the treatment process. With the help of experienced, compassionate mental health professionals, clients can successfully navigate through their benzo addiction and alleviate the signs and symptoms.
At Crossroads Maine, we offer women residential treatment in a comfortable, home-like setting. Find out more about how cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you or a loved one be free of a benzo addiction and live the life you want by calling 877.978.1667.
Seek Women’s Addiction Treatment
Battling a mental health disorder and benzo addiction can appear to be difficult. With the right support, guidance, and treatment options, women can control their addiction and focus on healing their minds, bodies, and spirits. Recovery is more than simply being free of the physical dependence on benzodiazepine. It allows a woman to change her thought processes, develop healthy habits and routines, and create coping mechanisms to navigate life without drug dependency.
Both men and women can experience addiction and substance use disorders. However, at Crossroads Maine, our clinicians understand the unique needs of women and tailor our programs to assist them in recovery. We consider the woman’s mental health condition, counseling needs, and addiction challenges when our therapists develop individualized treatment plans. For instance, we offer individualized therapy and counseling tailored to each woman’s needs. Our programs include a wide array of treatment options, including:
If you or a woman you love requires assistance with benzo addiction, please contact us through the online form or call 877.978.1667 today.
