Benzodiazepines, or benzos, are a class of drugs that doctors commonly prescribe to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. While these medications can be helpful for those who take them as prescribed by their doctor, benzos can also be dangerous if misused. Therefore, it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of benzo abuse so you can get your loved one benzo addiction treatment if needed. Knowing how to help someone abusing benzos can literally be a lifesaver.
How Do People Wind Up Abusing Benzos?
Benzos are usually taken orally in pill form, but they can also be taken intravenously or snorted. Benzo abuse occurs when someone takes too much of a medication or takes it without a prescription from their doctor. Many people become addicted to benzos after using them for long periods of time or taking more than the prescribed dose. Additionally, some people may turn to benzos for recreational use due to their sedative and calming effects.
When taken in high doses, benzos can cause serious health problems such as slowed breathing, coma, and even death. Long-term use of benzos has been linked to depression, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating. Additionally, mixing benzos with other substances like alcohol can be extremely dangerous as they both act as central nervous system depressants which can slow down the body’s systems even further.
Signs That People Are Abusing Benzos
If you suspect that your loved one is abusing benzos there are several signs that you should look out for such as changes in behavior like mood swings or aggression; physical symptoms such as:
- Slurred speech or unsteady gait
- Financial issues due to spending money on the medications
- Withdrawal symptoms including nausea and sweating
- An inability to stop taking the drugs despite wanting to quit
If any of these signs are present you must get your loved one help right away.
The Need for Benzo Addiction Treatment
Treatment for benzo abuse typically includes detoxing from the drug under medical supervision followed by individual counseling and therapy sessions with a professional addiction specialist. Treatment programs may also include group therapy sessions which allow individuals struggling with addiction to share their stories with others who have gone through similar experiences in order to gain insight into their own issues. Individuals who have abused benzodiazepines must get treatment quickly before their condition worsens due to the potential health risks associated with this type of drug misuse.
What Types of Therapy Are Used in Benzo Addiction Treatment?
A variety of therapies are used in benzo addiction treatment including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and interpersonal therapy. These therapies focus on helping individuals identify their triggers for drug use, develop healthier coping skills to manage stress and anxiety, improve self-esteem, and learn how to create meaningful relationships. Additionally, medication may be prescribed to help reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms. It is important for individuals struggling with benzo addiction to find a treatment program that best suits their needs. This is necessary to ensure the highest chance of success.
With the right support, anyone struggling with benzo abuse can overcome their addiction and regain control over their lives. It is important to recognize the signs of benzo abuse. Then, you need to get help as soon as possible in order to avoid potential health risks associated with this type of drug misuse. If you or a loved one are struggling with benzo addiction, please seek professional help right away.
Get Help Today From San Antonio Recovery Center
Abusing benzodiazepines is a serious issue. Immediate attention is necessary in order for individuals to get back on track with their lives in a healthy way. If you suspect that your loved one is abusing benzos you must seek help right away. They need to receive proper treatment from experts who specialize in addiction recovery.
Our experienced team will do everything possible to ensure your loved one gets all the help they need during this difficult time. Call San Antonio Recovery Center today at 866.957.7885.
