Modivated and scared

[[ex...]]

I am tapering off from 4mg of Xanax a day which I have been on for roughly 5 years. I took Xanax all in one shot a night to treat insomnia.

 

I am at the 2 week mark and have cut my dosage in half. I am currently taking 2mg. After finding this site, a referral to the Ashton manual, doing some reading, it sounds like I am on the road to tapering off to quickly?!

 

I am terrified of all the withdrawal symptoms I'm reading about. I am just now discovering/developing that I seem to have generalized anxiety disorder and possible depression. I need help what the best long term option is to deal with my actual diagnosis, if it's safe to both start and take when tapering off Xanax, and suggestions for how to sleep?

 

 

[[me...]]

Welcome to the forum! We're glad  to have you as a new member.  Yes, you are tapering much too quickly.  Tapering too fast can cause severe, long lasting symptoms.  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:

 

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!