I need the help...

[[th...]]

Hello,

I've never posted on a forum in my entire life so this is completely new business for me, I don't know what else to do. I've been taking Xanax since 2012 and most other benzos but the Xanax has stuck with me the longest. I've wanted to quit because of the problems is was giving me in my addiction area. I got hooked to the numbness and I abused my prescription needless to say. I was taking about 6-8 mg a day. When I would run out id get sick and take some from my parents (they rarely used their prescriptions) to the point they had to buy a safe.

Now I'm to the point where I want help, I need help.

I have a child and need to be present and focused. But I don't know how long I can take of just stopping. I've failed my tapering schedule twice bc I have such bad anxiety attacks even though I'm on 150mg of Zoloft, also taking hydroxyzene and Elavil for sleeping, I haven't been able to deal with the withdrawals and be a present parent. I've gotten down to 1 maybe 2 mg a day. But I do not know how to just flatline off and I can't commit to a rehab facility at this point in my life. I don't feel I need that. I feel like I need people who have been through, or are going through this as well.

 

Does everyone feel like their detached from the world and even themselves?

Does everyone feel sick to their stomach all day to the point your running to and from the bathroom all night vomiting?

Does everyone have so much in their head that they can't stop thinking and its preventing their sleep?

 

I need answers. I want to put this chapter behind me

[[pi...]]

Hello thefriendlyghost,

 

Welcome to Benzo Buddies! Like you, I had never joined a forum before I joined Benzo Buddies.  However, I credit finding this forum for helping through a very challenging withdrawal process. Honestly, I don't know where I'd be since it was difficult to find validation in the medical system and with most doctors. So you see, you've come to the right place.

 

You found yourself in a situation similar to many, doses of benzos spiraling upwards because you've become tolerant to the dose. Yes, you were taking some very high amounts of Xanax, but others have as well and have managed to successfully withdraw.  With a good plan and patience, you also can.

 

Neither cold turkey or detox is the recommended method for withdrawing from benzos. A slow taper is the best way to minimize withdrawal effects.  Generally a reduction of no more than 5-10% every 10-14 days is suggested. I'm giving you a link to the General Taper Plans for additional information.

 

There is an excellent resource about these types of drugs and how to withdraw called the Ashton Manual. It was written by an expert in the field and I'll also give you a link to that.

 

Being a parent during withdrawal is not easy, but others have done it and you'll be able to communicate with them and they will be happy to share their experiences.

 

The symptoms you describe are very common for withdrawal.  While unpleasant and sometimes scary, they will ease up with time.  It takes a while for your central nervous system to reset from the changes these drugs make.

 

Please feel free to ask questions, we're here to help.  This chapter can be in the past, give it time and stick with a sensible taper plan.

 

General Taper Plans 

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl