Benzodiazepine Addiction | Symptoms and Effects

What are benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines belong to a class of drugs known as sedatives or depressants, which affect the nervous system and slow down the body’s processes. They work by increasing the activity of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, a neurotransmitter responsible for emotions, memory and reasoning. This change in brain chemicals results in feelings of relaxation, drowsiness and reduced anxiety or tension.

Benzos are a legal prescription drug in the UK but if you are caught in possession without a prescription, you could face up to 2 years in prison and/or an unlimited fine. If you are caught supplying benzos to others, the maximum sentence is 14 years and/or an unlimited fine.

Some of the most common benzodiazepines in the UK include Ativan, Klonopin, Valium and Xanax.

Am I addicted to benzodiazepines?

If you are asking yourself this question, it is likely you have already noticed a problem with your benzodiazepine use. However, taking the first step and admitting you have a problem can be tough. It is important to recognise that there is no shame in getting help – in fact, it can be a liberating experience.

But how do you know if you have a problem? And when is the right time to seek help? Take a moment to read the following statements and see if any apply to you:

• I need higher doses of benzodiazepines to feel the same effects.
• I feel like I can’t get through the day without benzos.
• I exaggerate my symptoms in order to get a doctor’s prescription.
• I make numerous doctor’s appointments or go ‘doctor shopping’ in order to obtain benzos.
• I experience withdrawal symptoms if I go without benzodiazepines.
• I have tried to stop taking benzos but was unsuccessful.
• I have experienced trouble at work or school as a result of my benzo use
• I have experienced problems with relationships as a result of my benzo use.
• I try to hide or lie about the amount of benzodiazepines I take.

If you can relate to even one of these statements, it is possible that you have an addiction to benzodiazepines. This is a serious condition and may already be impacting your life in negative ways. In order to break free, professional treatment is an essential tool and starting sooner rather than later can make all the difference to your success.

Addictive benzodiazepine drugs

The dangers of benzodiazepine addiction

Benzos are a prescription drug and this often lulls people into a false sense of security – afterall, surely your doctor would not prescribe anything dangerous? But unfortunately taking these drugs outside of the ways prescribed can be very harmful and even life-threatening.

It is also possible to overdose on benzodiazepines. Signs of an overdose include:

• Extreme sedation
• Slurred speech
• Loss of conciousness
• Inability to control muscles
• Low breathing rate
• Coma
• Death

Mixing benzodiazepines with other substances can also prove fatal. For example, taking benzos with alcohol, another depressant, can cause your breathing to slow to a deadly rate. Taking benzos with stimulants can also have devastating effects as it is possible your body will be overwhelmed by the conflicting substances working against each other, causing cardiac arrest and heart failure.

Signs your loved one is addicted to benzos

An addiction to benzos is easy to hide – for many people, benzodiazepines are prescribed legitimately, and so you may not notice a problem with a loved one until further down the line. If you do suspect a family member is struggling to control their benzo use, there are some signs to look out for. These may include:

• Inability to make sound decisions or issues with cognitive function
• Sleeping for long periods of time
• Mood swings, irritability and agitation
• Displaying secretive behaviour or isolating themselves from friends and family
• Frequently ‘losing’ their prescription or going to the doctor often
• Complaining about being unable to get a prescription
• Loss of interest in hobbies or other activities
• Inability to function without benzodiazepines

If your loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, it is important to approach them in a sensitive manner. Try to avoid judgement or accusations, but instead come from a place of understanding. Offer your support, help to research treatment options and let them know you will be there for them every step of the way.

Can I overcome benzodiazepine addiction?

Overcoming a benzodiazepine addiction is certainly possible for anyone willing to put in the hard work required. The most comprehensive and effective form of treatment is inpatient rehab. Recovery Lighthouse focuses on three main areas of recovery: detox, rehabilitation and aftercare.

Aftercare

Attending an aftercare programme is just as important as your inpatient stay. It provides support, accountability and ongoing care once you go back to your day-to-day life. Recovery Lighthouse offers 1 year of free aftercare, including weekly support groups and therapy, to all of our clients.