Doctors can prescribe benzodiazepines, usually in the form of Ativan, Valium, or Xanax, to treat a variety of medical conditions, especially seizures, sleep disorders, and anxiety. This type of prescription drug is usually quite potent and can easily result in addiction.
Left untreated, benzodiazepine addiction can result in health consequences such as migraines, digestive issues, high blood pressure, mental health deterioration, and sleep disorders.
Learning to recognize the signs of benzodiazepine addiction in yourself or a loved one can make a difference in seeking treatment and getting on the road to recovery. Multiple types of treatment exist for this type of addiction. A reputable rehabilitation center can evaluate someone’s specific situation and tailor a treatment plan to their needs and goals.
Common Signs of Benzodiazepine Addiction
Symptoms of addiction can slightly vary depending on whether you use Ativan, Valium, or Xanax, but they include:
- Blurred vision
- Cognitive issues
- Decreased sex drive
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Lack of coordination
- Mood disturbances
- Seizures
- Sleep disorders
- Sweating
- Vomiting
The person experiencing benzodiazepine addiction can also exhibit social signs like isolation or missing work or classes. They may also “shop around” to find other physicians to prescribe them additional benzodiazepine to sustain their addiction after running out of their current prescription.
Seeking Treatment for Benzodiazepine Use Disorder
You may first discuss your situation with your primary care physician or directly reach out to a rehabilitation center. Depending on your employment situation, your personal life, and the severity of your addiction, your provider may recommend an inpatient or outpatient treatment plan to help you recover from your benzodiazepine use disorder.
Some places like The Carter Treatment Center offer partial hospitalization programs where you spend extensive time at the rehab center while still spending nights at your home with your family. All types of treatment plans have their benefits. Inpatient programs can help you stay away from your normal environment if temptations are too challenging while outpatient programs can be more affordable and allow your family to support you during your recovery.
Counseling is an effective and popular method to help people work through their rehabilitation programs. It can be individual or group therapy, or even a mix of both, depending on your personal preferences and your provider’s recommendations. The Carter Treatment Center also offers family programs where we can educate and support you and your loved ones on the difficulties of addictions and how to mend relationships to build a safer and more positive future together.
Alternative Therapies for Rehabilitation
At The Carter Treatment Center, we use a wide range of alternative therapies that our team can incorporate into all kinds of customized care plans. They can help address physical, mental, and emotional needs to create a solid foundation for a sober lifestyle.
Our most popular alternative therapies are:
They can help people build healthy coping mechanisms and learn to be more present in their daily lives. These methods can continue to help them after they complete their rehabilitation program.
The Importance of Aftercare
Although your rehabilitation program plays a central role in helping you recover from addiction, your aftercare plans can help you continue to live sober for years to come. Your treatment center can recommend external providers such as a therapist or a sober coach to support you.
If you have developed practices thanks to alternative therapies, your rehab team can also assist you in locating a nearby and affordable practice to continue yoga or sound therapy.
Building from the new life skills and coping mechanisms you learned during your recovery can make a lasting and positive difference in avoiding future temptation and enjoying a healthy life.
If you need personalized rehabilitation for benzodiazepine addiction in Cumming or Suwanee, contact The Carter Treatment Center today at (470) 616-7274 to schedule an appointment!