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Benzodiazepines are a branch of drugs that are often used as sedatives and may be prescribed for severe sleeping difficulties or illnesses. They are a type of tranquiliser, that, when used appropriately, can relieve many symptoms, such as anxiety.
If they are misused and taken more frequently than advised by a doctor, you can potentially develop a prescription drug addiction to these substances.
The first known benzodiazepine was developed in the 1960s and consisted of the active ingredient diazepam. You may commonly hear it be referred to as Valium, Xanax or Etizolam today, among others.
When a high dose is taken, it may lead to reduced respiratory drive and if this is combined with other substances, it may potentially become fatal. Benzodiazepines are intended for oral, nasal or intravenous consumption.
As with any overused drug, tolerance and addiction can quickly build, which may leave you constantly craving the substance.
Why are Benzodiazepines Addictive?
Addiction can occur relatively quickly, and it is known that this may occur as quickly as four weeks of use. The body quickly becomes immune from the effects when used often. Because of their quick working effects, they affect brain chemistry which in turn creates a feeling of protection, stability and comfort.
At some point, you will then begin to tolerate the dosage and seek more to maintain the feeling of comfort and relaxation. This sequence leads to addiction.
Whilst benzodiazepines are often prescribed, they can be found like any other drug on the black market. This means they may be mixed with other substances that can be equally damaging to the body.
You should be aware of the dangers of this substance in order to flag any initial symptoms of drug addiction.
Dangers of Street Benzos
Street benzos, obtained via the black market can be incredibly dangerous and it may be that you are unable to tell the difference.
You may see them marked as Xanax or Valium blister packs but they are illegal and very different to the ones prescribed. Street Bezos can lead to a range of different symptoms that can be unpleasant and potentially dangerous, including:
- Anxiety
- Trembles/Jitters
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
- Insomnia
As with any street drug, they carry incredibly potent ingredients that could mix with any other medications you’re taking. You must always use the drug as prescribed. Thankfully, addiction to Benzodiazepines is treatable.
At private drug rehab, you will be able to remove the substance from your body safely, look deeper into the reasons behind your addiction and create new solutions and set new boundaries.
What Happens During Benzodiazepine Detox?
When you enter a rehab programme, the first goal is to remove the substance from the blood during a drug detox. This should never be undertaken without medical supervision, as it can be very dangerous.
When you come to rehab, you will be cared for in a comfortable medical environment and have 24/7 support. We can manage withdrawal symptoms and offer you mental support if you feel unsteady with your thoughts.
Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person, but there are a few common symptoms that affect most people. Usually these symptoms are very mild, but if they do feel too uncomfortable, we can intervene with certain medications. The most common symptoms to note are:
- Abdominal cramps
- Mild flu-like symptoms
- Anxiety: tight chest, fast heart rate, shaking
- Blurred vision
- Concentration problems
- Dizziness
Along with the guidance of a healthcare professional who can recommend coping strategies, you will learn a lot about your addiction, as well as mechanisms to help regain your strength, and confidence in yourself and improve self-awareness.
The rest of your rehab programme will be completed following this 7-day withdrawal process.
Addiction Therapies in Private Rehab
Therapy goals are defined together and we allow you to have control in what treatments feel right for you and which ones you feel do not align with your views.
We work holistically with every patient at Nova Recovery, to provide active participation in every available therapy. We offer support and resources that you can take with you long after your programme ends.
At rehab, there are numerous available therapies and treatments on offer. The psychosomatic and psychological issues surrounding rehab will be focused on greatly.
Group and individual therapy and counselling sessions will be available as well as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) which will help guide you in making the best possible decisions when faced with new scenarios in your day-to-day life.
As standard, you will find numerous available treatments including:
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
- Group/Family Counselling Sessions
- Individual Counselling Sessions
- Creative Therapy
- Yoga Sessions
- Outdoor activities (including gym trips)
Defining your individual rehabilitation goals begins when we first make contact. We have a simple admissions process, a multidisciplinary team available at all times, and a luxurious and welcoming facility.
You will have access to a weekly visit from our top psychiatrist and learn important life lessons, techniques and top tips that will be lifelong and valuable to you. We create a bespoke programme that caters to your mental health needs, whether they are pre-existing or not, including the severity of the underlying addiction.
An aftercare plan for your addiction to Benzodiazepine will be undertaken, with holistic approaches, follow-up Zoom calls or over the phone, as well as assistance with your reintegration. It is possible to recover from addiction, and we can make it a reality for you.
Start Rehab Treatment in Scotland
Get the help that you need today. We appreciate that reaching out is the hardest thing to do on your journey. Admitting to a problem takes courage, and we honour that. That is why we will advise you and offer you plentiful information relating to your stay with us.
If you’d like to visit us, or chat more, please do get in touch with us today. You can call us on 01475 303998 and find a new path in life.
John Gillen
- Author
- Last updated: December 19, 2023
John has travelled extensively around the world, culminating in 19 years’ experience looking at different models. He is the European pioneer of NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) treatment to Europe in 2010; and recently back from the USA bringing state of the art Virtual Reality Relapse Prevention and stress reduction therapy. His passion extends to other metabolic disturbances and neurodegenerative diseases. The journey continues. In recent times, John has travelled to Russia to study and research into a new therapy photobiomudulation or systemic laser therapy working with NAD+ scientists and the very best of the medical professionals in the UK and the USA, together with Nadcell, Bionad Hospitals own select Doctors, nurses, dieticians and therapists. Johns’ passion continues to endeavour to bring to the UK and Europe new developments with NAD+ Therapy in preventive and restorative medicine and Wellness. In 2017 John Gillen was made a visiting Professor at the John Naisbitt university in Belgrade Serbia.
Dr Luqman Khan
- Clinical Reviewer
- Last reviewed: November 22, 2023
Dr Luqman Khan (MBchB, FRCS, MRCPsych) is a highly experienced and well-qualified psychiatrist with over ten years of experience in general psychiatry and addiction services.
He is certified by the MRCPsych and is known for his innovative approach to treating a diverse range of clients with high morbidity related to alcohol, drugs, and mental health problems.
At Nova Recovery, Dr Khan will utilise his extensive knowledge and experience to provide patients with the highest level of care and support in their journey towards recovery. He will work closely with our addiction recovery team to develop individualised treatment plans for each patient, considering their specific needs and circumstances.
He is passionate about supporting individuals in achieving their goals and objectives and is committed to working with patients to help them overcome their addiction dependency and improve their overall well-being. Utilising evidence-based practices and the latest research in addiction treatment, Dr Khan will help ensure that patients receive the most effective care possible.
As an adept communicator with excellent interpersonal skills, Dr Khan can connect with patients from all walks of life. Patients can expect to receive comprehensive and compassionate care from Dr Khan. With his expertise and guidance, they will be given the best chances of achieving long-term recovery.