Addiction is a very general term. When people think about addiction, they likely think about alcoholism or illicit drug use. But it’s important to realize that addiction extends past those two categories. Sometimes, people become addicted to or dependent on medications, drugs that are legal to use. Benzodiazepines, also called benzos, are a type of drug to which many people have found themselves addicted. Benzos are medications, which means that they are not illicit drugs. Unfortunately, a lot of people struggle with an addiction to benzo medication. But, it’s not always easy to identify this problem. So, it’s important to know more about the signs and symptoms of a benzo addiction and how it impacts those who are dealing with this issue.

More About Benzo Medication

If you or someone you know is using benzos, it’s helpful to learn about the symptoms and signs that indicate that a person has a benzo addiction. But, before we talk about those red flags, let’s talk a little more about what benzos are and how they affect people who use them. Benzos are prescription drugs that are classified as tranquilizers. They are usually prescribed to treat a range of illnesses and disorders. Some of the things benzos treat include:

• Anxiety
• Muscle spasms
• Insomnia
• Seizures
• Panic disorder

Some common benzo medications are Valium, Librax, Niravam, and Xanax. So, if you or someone you know is using any of these medications regularly, it’s possible that you may begin to see signs of a benzo addiction. Unfortunately, it’s very easy to become addicted to this kind of drug. Benzos produce a calming, sedative effect. This result can be somewhat pleasant to users. After all, a person who is dealing with things like anxiety or insomnia needs to experience calmness and peace. So, since benzos provide that feeling, people who use these medications often feel the need to continue using them, no matter what. When a person uses this type of drug regularly, it’s possible that he or she can build a tolerance for it fairly quickly. After tolerance, many people become dependent on it. Eventually, that dependence can become a full-blown addiction.

Common Indications of Benzo Addiction

How do you know if someone is addicted to benzo medication? What are some of the signs of this problem? Well, there are several signs and symptoms of this issue. Some may be easier to identify than others. But, in any case, these symptoms can occur in the life of a person who is suffering from benzodiazepine abuse or dependence. here are some of the common signs of benzo addiction:

• Breathing problems
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness
• Blurry vision
• Secretive behavior
• Isolation/Withdrawn behavior
• Moodiness
• Lack of hygiene
• Memory problems
• Headaches
• Doctor shopping
• Increased anxiety
• Tremors

While it is fairly easy to become addicted to these drugs, it’s very difficult to end that addiction. Sadly, many people struggle to find freedom from it. Benzos are highly addictive and can cause people to be extremely dependent on them. If you have seen any of the signs we’ve mentioned, it’s possible that your loved one is addicted to a benzo medication. And, if this is the case, then it’s important to end that substance abuse problem right away. Withdrawing from benzo use can be very difficult. People who withdraw “cold turkey”, or without the help of a treatment facility, could be in danger of very serious effects. Withdrawal can cause symptoms like muscle pains, anxiety, tension, nausea, headaches, sleeping problems, or even seizures. To avoid going through the withdrawal process alone, you should find professional help ASAP.

Wellness Retreat Recovery Center works to help treat many different kinds of addiction and substance abuse, including benzo addiction problems. We understand that ending substance misuse can be a real challenge and extremely uncomfortable. So, we are committed to making sure that you don’t have to go through the recovery process alone. Please contact us today to learn how we can help you overcome addiction in your life.