Long term Benzo User, first time site user!

[[lo...]]

Hello, I have struggled with benzo use for over 15 years (I'm 32). I always felt my mind was stronger than my body and could fight through the withdraws. I have quit, a number of times. But the withdraws get worse each time. So I guess I haven't really quit. I have asked all my doctors to never prescribe me a benzo again...well.....they are accessible anyhow. Either on the street or overseas.

 

I was recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease. My symptoms are that of a benzo withdrawl. I question my diagnosis. I am convinced I have done permanent damage to myself. My hands always shake and I am constantly nervous, stressed, or paranoid.  It is crippling me. I work in a fast paced start up and have a high title so I need help. I hope to learn from this forum! I would like to hear others stories. My symptoms seem like they are permanent.

[[ma...]]

Hello lo5560 Welcome to BenzoBuddies.

 

You will find plenty of information about benzodiazepines and you’ll receive much support from people who know what you’re going through.  I am unsure if you have stopped or you want taper advice ?  I will leave you some information and links to check out!

 

You should give yourself credit for working as well as going through this.  Withdrawal symptoms are temporary, some are very severe and can be frightening, but with a slow taper and some time!!  symptoms will eventually go, hang in there, it will get better

 

The generally accepted taper rate is 5-10%, every 10 to 14 days.  The rate can be adjusted to meet your needs.  A slow taper will help to keep withdrawal symptoms manageable.  Although symptoms can be severe they are temporary.  We do eventually recover from this experience.

 

Here are a few links:

 

The Ashton Manual is an invaluable resource, I found this manual very helpful when I began this process. 

 

General Taper Plans

 

Withdrawal Support

 

Post withdrawal recovery support.

 

Please take the time to Create a Signature.  This will allow others to see where you are in the process so they can better support you.

 

Feel free to post on any of our dedicated boards. 

 

Welcome aboard

 

Magrita

 

 

[[th...]]

They say each person is different. Like you, I had abruptly withdrawn and only felt jittery for like 2 days, I thought I could tough it out as well. This time I am older and was on 2mg of Xanax since like 2001 or so I and this time it really sucks. Going through withdrawals at work is the worst part because I am sucking up a great deal of anguish and have to keep a poker face. I am early in to my taper (I went from 2mg to 1 mg on first taper, taking two doses of .5mg.) Some days are better than others. The good news is that the anxiety attacks are less severe, I can still speak without my voice choking. The bad side is that sometimes I feel involuntary muscle spasms or contractions, they feel like mini convulsions or border line seizures. I can only reiterate when the admins say. Follow the slow taper (my next move will be .75mg in a month or two, then .5, then .25, then 12, 6,3,2, 1. Taper,distract, and give it time. I know my taper schedule is not what they recommend but I think it will work for me.