Glad to be here...

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Howdy,

 

So, this began a couple years ago.  I was diagnosed with thyroiditis (the thyroid gets hit by a virus) and my heart rate, blood pressure, and other things went crazy.  One of the main symptoms was anxiety.  Never had that before.  I was a workaholic before that and had some health issues related to adrenal fatigue.  I believe that this put me in the way of the thyroid issue.  I was run down.  Doc put me on Xanax, .5 mg.  I hit tolerance after a few months (now I know that) and began to slowly take more until I knew something was wrong.  I didn't want to go on them in the first place... and I didn't abuse.  As you know, it is a nightmare of sorts.  Regrets.  But, this will pass and it is being used for my good.  I'm believing in that.  It will be 6 months off for me on Jan 7th.  Amen!  I must admit, it's really hard right now.  Hit a wave and I hope it is the much talked about 5-6 month breakthrough.  Also praying that since I was on it for nearly under a year, I'll be in a good spot by month 7.  So... here I am, thankful to be a part of this group!  Current symptoms are leg weakness, general anxiety, benzo belly / gut issues, intrusive thoughts & memories (feels like this is on its way out), and a general overstimulated feeling of restlessness.  The one troublesome symptom that I've had the almost the entire time on Xanax, through my taper, and currently- I can't watch movies, scrolling on a computer screen... like the visual stimulus is too much and after long, I have to look away.  So annoying.  Anyways, thankful to be here and hope to be a positive support!

[Guest [Le...]]

Hello, pressingonward  - welcome to BenzoBuddies, and congratulations on being Xanax-free!

 

You have a great and positive outlook, which will serve you well as the remaining symptoms fade away. 

 

I'm so glad you decided to join the forum - you'll find plenty of information and support here. Our members have gone through all aspects of benzodiazepine use and withdrawal, so you'll be able to connect with others who understand what you're going through and can tell you what has worked for them.

 

Please feel free to post to any of the specialized boards, which can all be accessed from the BenzoBuddies Community Forum homepage. Based on the information provided in your introduction, the following link may be a good starting place for you.

 

  Post-withdrawal Recovery Support

 

When you have a chance, we highly recommend that you take a look at The Ashton Manual, which is an authoritative source on what to expect during withdrawal and recovery, authored by Dr Heather Ashton, who is an expert in the field. It provides a great deal of information that can be very reassuring during any stage of this process, including a list of common symptoms with helpful explanations.

 

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

 

Again, welcome!

Leslie 

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LeslieAsh,

 

Thanks for your kindness and support!  This website has been a tremendous help to me throughout withdrawal.  Don't know why I waited so long to join.  Appreciate you serving others!  Excited for my 6 month off mark.  :-)

[Guest [Le...]]

It's never too late to join - we're glad to have you as a member!

 

Glad to have you as a jumping buddy, too - I stopped Ativan six months ago, on June 18th. 

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Nice to have a jumping buddy!