A little about me

[[Ab...]]

I had a recent traumatic experience. I'm not and never have been an illicit drug user or taken any pills without a prescription. I developed debilitating insomnia and panic attacks for the first time in my life. I have been prescribed restoril and ativan. I'm now doing much better with the help of counseling and have begun to taper off both. Even with a tapering schedule from my physician I find this experience to be scary and the symptoms are making me feel overwhelmed and alone. I hope to find insight from the help of other people going through the same experience.

[[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:

 

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!