According to an NBC News Report, aired in July 2018, benzo addiction is on the rise and could potentially lead to the next drug crisis facing America. While not as commonly referred to as other substances, such as heroin addiction treatment, the need for benzo addiction treatment can be useful for those suffering from benzo addiction.

WHAT IS BENZO ADDICTION?

Benzo addiction refers to a dependence on benzodiazepines, which are prescription medications commonly used to treat panic attacks, anxiety, and disturbed sleep patterns. Some well-known benzos are Valium and Xanax.

Benzos work by calming the nervous system and promoting a state of calm or well-being. This effect can become quickly addictive, especially for people who deal with frequent bouts of anxiety or sleeping disorders. In some cases, individuals have claimed becoming dependent on a benzo in as little as 2 weeks.

SIGNS OF BENZO ADDICTION

Identifying a substance use disorder with prescription medication can be a bit more challenging than with drugs like heroin or meth. Because it’s prescribed, a person can more easily liken their use of the substance to a medical need. However, prescription medication can be just as addictive as other illicit substances and require addiction treatment.

Psychological and physiological symptoms of benzo addiction or abuse include:

• Weakness
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness
• Poor judgment or thinking
• Doctor shopping
• Asking friends, family, colleagues, and/or classmates for their benzodiazepine pills
• Wanting to cut back on the volume of abuse but unable to do so
• Mood changes
• Risk-taking behaviors, such as driving after abusing benzodiazepines
• Combining benzodiazepines with alcohol or other drugs
• Building tolerance, i.e. having to take more in order to achieve desired effects

If you think you or your loved one may be addicted to benzos, it’s important to seek help immediately. Don’t try to quit cold turkey. Benzo addiction causes severe withdrawals that are best taken care of under medical supervision.

FINDING THE BEST TREATMENT

Because benzo addiction is already intertwined with both a substance use disorder and mental illness (in most cases), finding a treatment center that offers dual diagnosis treatment could prove greatly beneficial.

Dual diagnosis is a type of treatment that initially identifies and diagnoses all mental illnesses present in a person. Rather than treating substance abuse as a separate entity, all co-occurring illnesses are treated together. In this way, individuals are treated holistically, which can increase the chance of total recovery.

In addition to offering dual diagnosis treatment, First Step Center of Arizona, offers a private residential center in the serene Sonoran Desert. With only 10 beds, our all-male clientele benefit from receiving a personalized treatment plan tailored to meet specified needs.

In addition to offering dual diagnosis treatment, First Step Center also offers:

• Partial Hospitalization Program
• Intensive Outpatient Program
• Residential Treatment Program
• Addiction therapy services
• Mens drug rehab
• 12 Step Program

Do you need comprehensive addiction treatment? Then contact First Step Center today. First Step Center believes in offering integrated treatment that offers a holistic method in helping you or a loved one get well. To discuss the best option for benzo addiction treatment, contact First Step Center now at 866.832.6398.