Due to the severity of withdrawal symptoms associated with benzodiazepine addiction, undergoing treatment in an addiction treatment center is the most secure method to achieve sobriety.
Benzodiazepines, generally referred to as “benzos,” are frequently prescribed medications used for the treatment of stress-related conditions, including anxiety disorders and sleeplessness.
Individuals may develop dependence or addiction to these substances by deliberate usage or by adhering to a medical prescription. However, the deliberate abuse of benzodiazepines may be more severe.
It is essential for individuals to be aware of their alternatives regarding benzodiazepine addiction treatment. Mallard Lake Detox Center can assist individuals in identifying the underlying reasons of their drug use problem and in developing coping strategies for any co-occurring disorders associated with their benzodiazepine usage. Reach out to any of our experts to learn more about how our expert benzodiazepine addiction treatment program serving Dallas, TX, can be of help.
This guide by our experts entails more information regarding benzos, their addiction, and treatment, as shown in the table of contents below.
What Are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines or commonly referred to as ‘Benzos’ are classified as Schedule IV substances under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a relatively lesser potential for misuse and recognized medicinal applications in the United States. Benzodiazepines are habit-forming. Despite being unlawful outside of authorized applications, they have regrettably resulted in several fatalities due to benzodiazepine addiction.
Benzodiazepines are medications indicated for several disorders, including:
- Anxiety
- Alcohol withdrawal
- Depression
- Muscle relaxation
- Insomnia
- Seizures
- Panic attacks
What Are The Different Types of Benzodiazepines in Benzodiazepine Addiction?
The different types of benzodiazepines include (brand names are in parentheses):
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Oxazepam (Serax)
- Triazolam (Halcion), etc.
What Are The Causes of Benzo Addiction?
Benzodiazepines may be started owing to a prescription, for recreational purposes (to enhance mood or performance), or as a result of peer influence. However, if not meticulously regulated, the substance may dominate your existence and escalate into substance misuse. Before long, abuse transforms into an addiction.
Benzodiazepine addiction is classified as a brain condition, since prolonged use of these drugs can alter brain function. The affected regions of the brain are associated with stress, self-regulation, and reward processing.
Prolonged usage may lead to an increased need for the medication or a more frequent use to achieve a state of ‘normalcy’. This signals benzodiazepine dependency. Exercising self-control may be challenging, since the chemical alters the brain regions responsible for judgment, decision-making, learning, memory, and behavioral regulation. As time passes, it becomes more difficult to cease, even when one wants to do so, since the urges and cravings seem overwhelmingly strong.
Prevalence of Benzo Addiction in the United States.
In 2018, approximately 30 million Americans reported to have used benzodiazepines. 17.2% of these cases constituted benzodiazepine abuse. Individuals aged 18-25 had the greatest abuse rate at 5.2%. The predominant form of abuse was benzodiazepine usage without a prescription.
What Are Some of The Risk Factors of Benzo Addiction?
The likelihood of developing a benzo addiction may differ among individuals. Addiction is a multifaceted health condition, and no one risk factor may be deemed solely responsible for its onset. It is often the amalgamation of several distinct factors.
The probability of acquiring a benzo addiction may be affected by the habit-forming nature of benzodiazepines, with some types being more addictive. Individuals who consume them must adhere to the prescription guidelines.
In essence, the following are some of the risk factors of benzo addiction:
- Prolonged Use – Taking benzodiazepines for an extended period increases dependency risk.
- Personal or Family History of Addiction – Genetic and environmental factors play a role.
- Mental Health Disorders – Anxiety, depression, and PTSD may contribute to misuse.
- Polydrug Use – Combining benzos with alcohol or other drugs increases addiction risk.
- Lack of Medical Supervision – Using benzos without a prescription or doctor’s guidance.
- High-Stress Lifestyle – Chronic stress can lead to self-medication and misuse.
- Young Age of First Use – Early exposure to benzos can lead to long-term dependency.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Addiction?
Individuals struggling with addiction exhibit a compulsive need to use benzodiazepines more often, in greater quantities, or for longer durations than prescribed. Be vigilant for the following signs and symptoms:
- Increased Tolerance – Needing higher doses for the same effects.
- Cravings – Strong urges to use benzodiazepines frequently.
- Loss of Control – Inability to stop or reduce use despite efforts.
- Withdrawal Symptoms – Anxiety, insomnia, tremors, or seizures when not using.
- Doctor Shopping – Seeking multiple prescriptions from different doctors.
- Memory Problems – Difficulty recalling recent events or conversations.
- Drowsiness & Dizziness – Feeling excessively tired or lightheaded.
- Slurred Speech – Difficulty speaking clearly.
- Poor Coordination – Clumsiness or unsteady movements.
- Mood Swings – Irritability, depression, or agitation.
- Social Withdrawal – Avoiding friends, family, or responsibilities.
- Neglecting Responsibilities – Ignoring work, school, or personal obligations.
- Risky Behavior – Driving under the influence or engaging in dangerous activities.
- Continued Use Despite Harm – Using benzos even when facing negative consequences.
Treatment Options for Benzodiazepine Addiction
At Mallard Lake Detox Center, we acknowledge the need to address all facets of benzo addiction for sustained recovery. We strive to restore mental wellbeing, since those addicted to benzodiazepines often possess underlying mental health disorders. The treatment options available for benzodiazepine addiction at our rehab center serving Dallas, TX, include:
-
Medical Benzo Detox
Approximately 35% of benzodiazepine users who use the substance for six months or more may encounter side effects (withdrawal symptoms) upon discontinuation. The first step in addressing benzodiazepine addiction is a secure detoxification and treatment regimen.
A notable side effect of abruptly discontinuing benzodiazepines is the potential for seizures. In the event of these or other hazardous side effects, physicians will first manage the situation by methodically weaning the patient off the medication by a progressive reduction of the dose. Only then will healthcare professionals proceed to therapeutic alternatives.
A drug detox program assists in eliminating benzodiazepines and other substances from your body, facilitating an effective response to therapy. Mallard Lake offers drug detoxification programs serving Dallas, TX, to assist you in safely managing withdrawal symptoms while under medical attention and expertise.
-
Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Medication-assisted treatment is the administration of medications to minimize discomfort and diminish cravings especially during the initial phase of benzo addiction treatment. At Mallard Lake, we may recommend this treatment if you have previously had difficulties in sustaining sobriety. We adhere to stringent ethical and medical protocols to guarantee the safety and comfort of our patients.
-
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient rehab is a probable course of action for those struggling with drug addiction. Inpatient rehab offers a chance to escape potentially detrimental influences or situations. Inpatient rehab allows patients to engage daily with physicians, nurses, or therapists while residing at a rehab center.
Patients have round-the-clock treatment to manage co-occurring disorders or residual withdrawal symptoms, including persistent cravings after detoxification. Inpatient rehab often endures for a duration of 30 to 45 days, although the length is contingent upon individual client needs.
-
Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient programs sometimes serve as the last phase after the successful conclusion of rigorous inpatient or residential therapy. The emphasis is on continuous support to enable patients to maintain a drug-free and alcohol-free lifestyle.
At Mallard, outpatient therapies may consist of group therapy sessions or counseling, motivational as well as life-skills training, job and legal assistance, and relapse prevention training to enhance quality of life after treatment.
-
Therapies
Benzo addiction treatment includes a range of customizable therapy alternatives for individuals. Below are some of the alternatives available at Mallard Lake serving Dallas, TX:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps identify and change negative thought patterns.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Teaches emotional regulation and coping strategies.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Encourages commitment to recovery.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Uses medications to ease withdrawal and cravings.
- Group Therapy – Provides peer support and shared experiences.
- Family Therapy – Strengthens relationships and builds a supportive home environment.
- Trauma-Informed Therapy – Addresses past trauma contributing to addiction.
- Mindfulness & Meditation – Enhances relaxation and stress management.
- Yoga – Improves physical and mental well-being.
- Equine Therapy – Uses horse-assisted activities for emotional healing.
- Nutritional Counseling – Promotes healthy eating to aid recovery.
- Art & Music Therapy – Encourages self-expression and emotional processing.
- Outdoor & Adventure Therapy – Builds confidence and resilience through nature-based activities.
These therapies facilitate self-identification and rectification of thoughts and actions that may contribute to benzo addiction.
-
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
As aforementioned, most individuals struggling with benzo addiction also struggle with mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. This underscores the importance of dual diagnosis treatment in order to handle both conditions concurrently.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery with Mallard Lake’s Comprehensive Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Program Serving Dallas, TX – Start Your Journey to Healing Today!
Acknowledging that benzodiazepine addiction is amenable via treatment is the initial step in the recovery process. One need not confront benzodiazepine addiction alone. Mallard Lake Detox Center has shown efficacy in treating various drug use problems. We provide an array of treatment programs and tools to assist those grappling with addiction. If you or someone you care about are exhibiting signs of benzo addiction or another type of addiction, contact us immediately to get the assistance you need. Get started on your path to a brighter future today!