hello & sympathies

[[la...]]

hey y'all

 

I was put on xanax 2mg daily PRN daily at age 16 and klonopin 1-2mg PRN daily a few years later I truly thought that this was the only way I could live my life. I decided enough was enough in October of 2016. I was numbing myself to cope with the world because I never learned how to deal in a healthy way. I tapered off of my meds over a few weeks, but I was severely under-informed of the dangers of withdrawal. I am lucky I did not die. The withdrawals were all encompassing and unimaginable. For about 3 months I was caught in a prison inside of my brain. Now I am feeling well for the first time in my life and I am so happy and grateful to be alive.

 

wishing everyone the best of luck - you are all so strong to be facing your demons head on.

 

-Chris

 

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum!  We're glad to have you as a new member.  Those of us who've done c't's or fast tapers know how hellish the symptoms can be.  I'm glad you are feeling better after your experience.

 

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, and some taper even slower than that.  One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper faster than that.  Having some withdrawal symptoms is normal, especially near the end of a taper and for a month or so after discontinuing the medication.  The most common symptoms are anxiety and insomnia, but these are temporary and will go away in time.

 

Here are a few links you may find useful:

 

Post Withdrawal Support Board

 

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!