17 months off

[[Ca...]]

I want to connect with people who understand what I am going through and have been through. I was on Benzos for 20 years-10 years on Ativian and the last 10 on Klonipin. Went in the hospital and was taken off them cold turkey.

 

That was 17 months ago and I have basically suffered through the entire experience alone. I was motivated by the videos for World Benzo Awareness Day so I told my aunt about what happened this last weekend and now I am reaching out here,

 

Edit: username removed from title

[[me...]]

Hello, and welcome to the forum! As someone who also went through a hospital "detox" (cold turkey) some years ago, I understand how extreme the symptoms can be.  We almost always try to caution current members not to do this, it's almost never a good idea.

 

You'll find plenty of information and support here.  Our members have gone through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to see  people who understand what you're going through and can tell you what has worked for them.  For those who are currently tapering, we suggest reducing no faster than 5-10% every 10-14 days.  One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper faster than that.

 

Here are a few links you may find useful:

 

Cold Turkey, Detox & Rapid Withdrawal

 

The Ashton Manual is an authoritative source on what to expect in withdrawal and recovery.  Dr. Ashton is an expert in the field.  She describes and explains withdrawal symptoms in Chapter III, and there is also a section with withdrawal/taper schedules.

 

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.

 

Again, welcome!