The proper name of Benzo is Benzodiazepine, and it is a psychoactive drug. An accidental discovery created it in 1955, and it was brought to the market in 1960 as Librium by Hoffman-La Roche (also the makers of Valium, as well as in the same family). Benzos are an enhancer of a neurotransmitter, which results in, among other things, sedation, sleep, anti-anxiety, and muscle relaxation. It has been proven to be very effective in managing a wide range of medical or psychological issues, and it has been used in alcohol and drug detox as well.
Short-term use of benzos seems to have positive effects and may not cause Benzodiazepine addiction. However, when used over an extended period of time, they can have serious and detrimental effects, as well as questionable benefits. Generally, cessation of benzodiazepine use is considered to be a positive event, resulting in improved mental and physical health. The truth is that some people benefit from short-term use of benzos, but almost no one benefits from long-term use.
Up until recently, not much was discussed regarding benzos. In the past few months, however, the topic has risen to the surface because doctors, addicts, and specialists dealing with abuse have spoken out about the detrimental and addictive qualities of the drug.
Several books have been written about benzo’s addiction recovery process. Some of the books are as follows:
- Benzodiazepines: How They Work And How To Withdraw by Professor C. Heather Ashton: In this book, he discusses at length the workings of the drug and defines a protocol for cessation and withdrawal management.
- Benzo-Wise: A Recovery Companion by V. Baylissa Frederick: It is a guide based on the first-hand experience of the author who journeyed through withdrawal from benzos. It is said to be “a must-read” for anyone connected to or withdrawing from benzos.
- Addiction Recovery Tools by Dr. Robert Holman Coombs: In this book, he speaks to the reader in laymen’s terms, going beyond informative rhetoric by addressing a plethora of tools and tips designed to help reduce the effects of withdrawal. It is quite an interactive read, and numerous contributors have offered up advice, worksheets, questionnaires, and exercises for the addict and their families.
Every person responds differently, but hearing that you’re not alone, that the symptoms you’re experiencing aren’t unique to you, and that there is a way out, may help you overcome your addiction. But there is one thing of which we are sure: if you don’t stop the addiction now, it does not get easier with time. Your health will suffer, your mental state will suffer, and eventually, you will stop taking them. It will just hurt a whole lot more.
There is a way out today. You can start reading the books, speak to professionals, and stop justifying the use of this drug. You can do it just if you put your mind to it and use these resources to break this addiction.
If a person is suffering from a severe case of benzo addiction, the best way to cure is to seek professional help at an addiction treatment facility.
