Benzodiazepines
Prescrition Medicine such as Xanax, Valium, Ativan
Usually taken for calming effects, some would say their experience is similar to the effects of alcohol (talkativeness). Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and present a host of symptoms that includes physical, psychological, and behavioural symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
DSM 5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition), describes benzodiazepine abuse as hypnotic or sedative abuse disorder which requires 2 of a possible 11 symptoms manifesting in a 12 month period.
These symptoms include:
1. Taking the substance in larger amounts or for longer than you're meant to.
2. Wanting to cut down or stop using the substance but not managing to.
3. Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from use of the substance.
4. Cravings and urges to use the substance.
5. Not managing to do what you should at work, home, or school because of substance use.
6. Continuing to use, even when it causes problems in relationships.
7. Giving up important social, occupational, or recreational activities because of substance use.
8. Using substances again and again, even when it puts you in danger.
9. Continuing to use, even when you know you have a physical or psychological problem that could have been caused or made worse by the substance.
10. Needing more of the substance to get the effect you want (tolerance).
11. Development of withdrawal symptoms, which can be relieved by taking more of the substance.
Methods of Use
> Orally
> Snorted
Adverse Effects
> Drowsiness
> Lethargy
> Irritability
> Confusion
> Memory problems
> Dizziness
> Headaches
> Loss of coordination
> Slurred speech
> Nausea and vomiting
> Paranoia
> Hallucinations
> Constipation
Overdose Potential
If taken in large doses, symptoms usually appear in a progression, beginning with restlessness, agitation, and irritability and escalating into more severe physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate and convulsions.
Withdrawal
> Anxiety
> Nightmares
> Strong cravings
> Increased sleep duration
> Paranoia
> Confusion
> Irritability
> Violent behaviour
> Depression
Treatment
> Self-help organizations – Talking with others who also have a disorder have been proven to be very effective.
> Therapy – Behaviour therapy or cognitive behaviour therapy is a proven evidence based therapy teaching skills to reduce the urges. Find a licensed practitioner.
> Medications – Studies suggest that some medication may be effective for the treatment of gambling addiction. Speak to a psychiatrist specialised in addiction treatment for an evaluation and recommendations.
> Treatment programs – Many in-treatment and outpatient programs can assist with a gambling disorder.
Why choose PRC Recovery?
We are a registered treatment centre specialising in the treatment of addictive disorders. Our individualised approach to treating addiction is based on international standards and includes the many proven modalities in the treatment of addiction.
Key focus areas for an effective program:
> Family involvement – family participation in the treatment of any addiction is vital.
> Individualised approach – underlying issues prolonging any addiction is based on the individual and therefore individual treatment plans are an important component to effective treatment of addiction by a qualified professional counsellor.
> 12 step program – Twelve step programs have proven highly effective in the treatment of addiction and starts forming the solid foundation in early recovery. It is also used as the platform to the introduction of self-help organisations, forming part of the aftercare.
> Aftercare – Stopping the addiction is only the foundation phase in the treatment of addiction. A well thought-out aftercare plan is crucial to sustain long-term recovery.
Sources
Understanding Benzodiazepine Abuse
Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as benzos, are a class of psychoactive drugs that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other related conditions. While they can be effective in managing symptoms, benzodiazepines also carry a risk of dependence and addiction if used improperly or for an extended period.
