Benzodiazepines (Benzos) Treatment in Massachusetts
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Benzodiazepines offer respite from anxiety and mental health disorders for thousands of people each day. But one extra pill can lead to another and quickly cause a dependence on Benzodiazepines or Benzo substance use disorder in Massachusetts that overtakes your life.
But, it’s possible to find your way to achieving life goals again. Refresh Recovery & Wellness is a benzo addiction treatment center in Norwell, MA, that specializes in a whole-person approach to addiction treatment in Massachusetts. You’re in the right place.
SIDE-EFFECTS OF BENZOS
While the initial effects of benzodiazepine use generally are a relaxed mood and sleepiness, short-term use can lead to:
- Blurred vision
- Decreased sex drive and impotence
- Depression and irritability
- Dizziness and unsteadiness
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Memory problems and confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slurred speech
LONG-TERM HEALTH RISKS OF BENZOS
Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to various health risks, including:
- Tolerance: Over time, the body may become used to the effects of benzodiazepines, leading to the need for higher doses to achieve the same effect.
- Physical dependence: Regular use can lead to physical dependence, meaning that the body has adjusted to the presence of the drug, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if use is stopped.
- Cognitive impairment: Impaired memory, attention, and executive functioning affect your ability to perform daily activities and increase the risk of falls and accidents.
- Increased risk of falls and fractures: Side effects of dizziness and unsteadiness may increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
- Depression and anxiety: Long-term benzo use can worsen depression and anxiety symptoms and make it more difficult to treat these conditions.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Abruptly stopping use can trigger symptoms of withdrawal, including insomnia, agitation, and life-threatening seizures.
Benzo use, whether prescribed or not, with co-occurring disorders is dangerous as it significantly increases the risk of a fatal overdose.[2]
HOW TO FIND HELP FOR YOURSELF OR A LOVED ONE: IDENTIFYING A BENZO DEPENDENCE IN MASSACHUSETTS
Symptoms of a benzodiazepine dependence can be different for each person, but professional treatment can help. Interventions generally include:
- Asking family, friends, and/or acquaintances for their benzo pills;
- Blurred vision;
- Combining benzodiazepines with alcohol or other drugs;
- Drowsiness;
- Doctor shopping;
- Mood changes;
- Poor judgment or thinking;
- Risk-taking behaviors;
- Wanting to stop using but being unable to do so; and/or
- Weakness.
Common symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal can include:[3]
- Anxiety;
- Benzo cravings;
- Headaches;
- Heart palpitations;
- Muscle pain;
- Nausea;
- Panic attacks;
- Seizures;
- Sweating; and/or
- Tremors.
BEGIN YOUR RECOVERY AT OUR UPSCALE BENZO REHAB CENTER IN MASSACHUSETTS
AN OVERVIEW OF BENZOS DRUG FACTS
The calming and sedating effect of benzodiazepines, common prescription drugs, make the substances appealing whether or not someone has a legitimate prescription to treat anxiety disorders. But, these highly addictive drugs cause a list of short- and long-term side effects when misused, including life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
Benzodiazepines interact with the brain by increasing the activity of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter. GABA slows down nerve activity in the brain, helping to regulate mood and anxiety levels.
When a person takes benzodiazepine, the drug enhances the effect of GABA, leading to an increase in GABA activity and a reduction in the activity of other neurotransmitters, such as glutamate. This results in a sedative, anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), and anticonvulsant effect, which can help to reduce anxiety disorders, induce sleep, and prevent seizures.
However, with long-term use, benzodiazepines can cause changes in the brain and central nervous system (CNS) — this includes dependence to regulate mood and anxiety levels. When discontinued, your brain may have difficulty adjusting and functioning normally without it.
These are frequently prescribed benzos with their brand and generic names:[1]
- Ativan® (lorzepam)
- Klonopin® (clonazepam)
- Restoril® (temazepam)
- Valium® (diazepam)
- Xanax® (alprazolam)
Benzo Treatment Options in Massachusetts For A Safe Recovery
At Refresh Recovery & Wellness Centers in Norwell, MA, we provide a range of outpatient benzo addiction treatment programs in Massachusetts with different levels of care to meet your or your loved one’s needs. Our Partial Hospitalization Program in MA is a Monday through Friday full day for those who need increased support in their benzo addiction treatment process. Intensive Outpatient Programs in MA have the flexibility to maintain your schedule during daytime or evening hours. And the final step toward recovery is with aftercare in our Outpatient Program.
Benzo Withdrawal Timeline
The duration of benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms varies, but generally, the symptoms peak within one to two weeks and then gradually subside over the course of several weeks to a few months. It’s important never to stop taking benzodiazepines suddenly without medical supervision, as withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Instead, the process should be gradual and closely monitored by your doctor to ensure safety.
HOW BENZO TREATMENT IN MASSACHUSETTS CAN HELP
A benzodiazepine addiction treatment plan can allow your body to detox and begin recovery in a benzo addiction treatment facility in Massachsuetts. The benzo addiction treatment in MA typically involves a gradual tapering off of benzodiazepines, followed by a comprehensive support and recovery program.
- Safe tapering: Medical professionals develop a safe and effective tapering plan to gradually reduce the dose and minimize the risk of withdrawal.
- Support and care: Treatment programs provide you with support and care, including access to healthcare providers, counseling, and support groups. This helps address the emotional and psychological aspects of dependence and promotes overall health and well-being.
- Alternative therapies: Psychotherapy, mindfulness-based practices, or medication-assisted treatment may be recommended to manage symptoms and promote overall health and well-being during the recovery process.
- Coping strategies: You learn coping strategies and skills to help manage anxiety and stress without relying on benzodiazepines.
- Long-term recovery: Treatment establishes a foundation for long-term recovery and promotes lasting health and well-being.
WHY CHOOSE REFRESH RECOVERY
INDIVIDUALIZED CARE PLANS
FOUNDATIONAL SUPPORT FOR LIFELONG RECOVERY
TREATMENT FOR A WIDE VARIETY OF DISORDERS
MORE THAN A TREATMENT CENTER: WE’RE YOUR RECOVERY PARTNER
Many of our supportive staff have been right where you are and know the strength it takes to maintain a lasting recovery, and they’re here to help in every step.
TYPES OF THERAPY FOR OVERCOMING BENZO DEPENDENCE
Lasting recovery from benzo addiction often begins with individual therapy sessions and group therapy interventions that allow you to work through internal processing and learn from peers in a similar situation. Depending on your needs and benzo addiction treatment goals, our individual counseling includes cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed treatment, and medication-assisted therapy. Periodic group therapy is one part of our outpatient program, which helps many sustain their recovery as they reintegrate into everyday life.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BENZO REHAB IN MA
Does your brain go back to normal after benzodiazepines?
How long does it take to get off benzos?
The length of time it takes to benzo detox can vary depending on factors such as:
- Type and dose of benzo used;
- Duration of use; and/or
- Individual factors like age, health status, and metabolism.
It’s recommended to taper off over several weeks to several months, depending on the dose and duration of use. Rapid or abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines can result in severe withdrawal symptoms and should be avoided.
What class of drugs are used for benzo withdrawal?
Several classes of drugs might be used for the benzodiazepine withdrawal process, including:
- Anticonvulsants: Drugs such as gabapentin or pregabalin may be used to manage anxiety and insomnia during withdrawal.
- Antidepressants: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or tricyclic antidepressants may be used to manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
- Beta-blockers: Drugs such as propranolol may be used to manage symptoms like tremors and rapid heart rate.
- Benzodiazepines: In some cases, a different benzodiazepine may be prescribed for short-term use during withdrawal, with the goal of gradually tapering the dose over time.
How long should you taper benzodiazepines?
What is the best way to get off benzos?
With a comprehensive and individualized treatment plan that supports you from a whole-person perspective. Depending on your needs and situation, a qualified doctor or healthcare provider may recommend medication-assisted therapy.
How do I know whether the benzo pills I take are a problem?
How do I talk with my family — they don’t understand my experience.
Comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment in Massachusetts
At Refresh Recovery, we provide comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder treatment in Massachusetts. Our experienced team offers evidence-based therapies to address a range of conditions, including addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. Find out how we can help you achieve long-term recovery.
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BENZODIAZEPINES (BENZOS, XANAX®, VALIUM®, LORAZEPAM®, ETC.)
CANNABIS USE DISORDER (CUD)
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CRACK COCAINE DEPENDENCE
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OPIOID USE DISORDER (OUD)
FENTANYL
RESEARCH CHEMICALS
MDMA / ECSTASY
