Looking forward to being me again

[[Su...]]

Hello one and all,

I'm now 6 weeks post jump from what I now believe to be a fairly rapid taper (about 3 months), before that I was taking xanax for sleep for about 7 months, then switched to Valium for my taper. I worked in healthcare for years and am shocked that I knew nothing about the extent of the horrors of withdrawal. I honestly thought if I had any problems at all after stopping it would just be insomnia for a week or two....HA! It's criminal that we are put on these drugs and never told that it would turn our lives completely upside down after stopping. I long to be my old self again, even though I don't feel her, I remember her. She was bright, athletic, loving and not this shell I am now. That's what is sustaining me now, a belief that I will find her again.

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum! We're glad to have you as a new member. 

 

You'll find lots of information and support here.  Our members have been through all aspects of withdrawal, and you're likely to find  people who understand what you're going through.

 

For those who are starting a new taper, we suggest reducing no faster than 5-10% every 10-14 days at first, and then adjusting the taper rate to suit your own needs.  One exception: very short-term users of a few weeks or less may be able to taper faster.  Having some withdrawal symptoms is normal, especially near the end of a taper and for a few months after discontinuing the medication.  First/only withdrawals after a slow taper tend to be easier than multiple reinstatements/withdrawals over time, which may make symptoms worse and longer lasting. The most common symptoms are anxiety and insomnia, but there are many others. 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. Section III explains and describes symptoms, and there is also a section with suggested 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!

 

 

[[Rx...]]

I am new here too.  You have my sincere empathy and best wishes.  I miss the me before this too, totally understand.