30 on, 3 months off

[[je...]]

Hello. I first took "muscle relaxants" when I was 15 and at boarding school because I had (what I later realized was) a major depressive episode and could not sleep. It was lights out at 10:30 etc etc etc. I got off these in time but a dreadful fear of sleeplessness remained. When I went to graduate school years later I again couldn't sleep and I HAD to sleep to do grad school. Again I took benzos. I did try to stop when I graduated but I didn't know about withdrawal and when I couldn't sleep I figured I now needed them to sleep at all. I never tried again and took them over 30 years in all, first Librium then Klonapin 1, 2 and finally 3 mg. Who knew you couldn't do that!!! Even a pharmacist told me it was OK!!!  Quit in Jan this year when they stopped working and doctor wouldn't prescribe more. So I quit cold turkey but not my idea. Haven't had any K since Feb 25. Can sleep only 2-3 hrs, occa. up to 5 with freq awakenings. I have other symptoms but sleep is the only one that really concerns me. Have read Ashton Manual but still THE STRESS is huge & I feel tired but NOT SLEEPY!     

[[pi...]]

Hello jensie,

 

Welcome to Benzo Buddies! I'm sorry you were put in a position that forced you to go cold turkey off klonopin. That is not the recommended method to stop taking these types of drugs. 

 

Insomnia is a very common withdrawal symptom when stopping benzos. Additionally, if sleep was a problem earlier on, it will be important to develop good sleep hygiene.  Benzos actually disrupt normal REM sleep so it can take a while for this problem to ease up. We have many members who have gotten their natural sleep back after a period of time.

 

I'll give you a link to the Post Withdrawal Support Board where you can ask questions and receive feedback from members.

 

I'll also give you a link to the Ashton Manual. While it discusses tapering in detail, it also gives good information about the withdrawal process in general. The manual was written by Dr. Heather Ashton, an expert in the field.

 

We understand the withdrawal process and members will support and encourage you through the recovery stage. Please do ask questions, we're here to help.

 

Post-withdrawal Recovery Support

 

The Ashton Manual

 

pianogirl 

[[La...]]

Hi & Welcome to the group! Unfortunately insomnia is a very common WD Symptom. Hang in there, it does get better. I'm 8 1/2 months Benzo free after 7 years & I now can sleep 6 hours straight with a nap during the day- Stay Strong!