Here to learn

[[Li...]]

I have been a member of a few Facebook-based benzo support groups for a couple of years. I am now 27 months off all psych meds after a cold turkey off 5 drugs - Ativan, Imovane, Efexor, Seroquel, dexamphetamines. I spent 16 years on various antidepressants (primarily Efexor) due to an initial misdiagnosis of a physical problem. 10 years on Ativan, Imovane and others. I am still not functioning very well. Current symptoms include muscle pain and weakness, deep fatigue, insomnia, neuropathy (feet), tinnitus, food sensitivities, benzo belly, GI issues, weight gain, depersonalisation, derealisation, emotional blunting, adrenal fatigue, Hashimoto's, damaged liver and pancreas.

[Guest [Le...]]

Hello, LifeTraveller - welcome to BenzoBuddies, and congratulations on being drug-free!

 

It's not uncommon to experience symptoms long after cold-turkeying, especially from a bunch of drugs at once, as I guess you've found out - but you've come to the right place to recover. 

 

Also, I feel your pain, having been on Ativan, Adderall and Paxil, and then having stopped them in quick succession. I'm still paying the price. But ~ things do get better, it just takes so much longer than we might ever have believed.

 

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.

 

Based on the information provided in your introduction, the following link may be a good starting place for you to post your questions.

 

  Post-withdrawal Recovery Support

  Cold Turkey

 

When you have a chance, I recommend that you take a look at The Ashton Manual, which is an authoritative source on what to expect during withdrawal and recovery. 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.

 

Looking forward to seeing you on the forum!

  Leslie