First time reaching out for connection and support.

[[Ra...]]

Hello all.

It feels good to post anonymously as I've never felt safe posting in other social networks. Thank you for hearing me.

 

I'm here after reducing from 2.5mg lorazapam (Ativan in the states?) To 5 mg diazapam (equivalent to 0.5mg lorazapam) since the beginning of the year. I've been following the Aston manual on my own, although I have had to go slower than tapering schedules documented there.

 

So I've come quite a way in my reduction and I know many of you will relate when I say it's been hellish. I'm messaging at a time of crisis when the withdrawel feels like it will never end. That feeling of wanting to crawl out my my skin. Things tend to ease by the evening but the days are long.

 

To complicate matters I am also ok a very large dose of pregabilin (Lyrica in the US?). I don't know how that is affecting my taper. I'm concerned about the process of tapering that too soon as I've read it coming to light what a dangerous and addictive drug this is. 

 

I'm 32 years old and I was first prescribed lorazapam following a major trauma age 19. I come from a difficult family background and have always been sensitive in nature and I simply did not have the built in resilience or the social support to deal with the trauma. My GP put me on lorazapam. I was concious then of its addictive nature and came off as soon as I was getting back on my feet and with relative ease. Fastforward 13 years (how did that happen?) And I've returned to lorazapam on a couple of occassions, most recently in 2018 following another major trauma. This time my GP added escitalopram, pregabilin and propanalol.

 

Im sure many of you understand when I say it's a travesty that so many of the most wounded and wronged amongst us are medicated with these evil drugs. I've never smoked or drank alcohol and always been a conscientious person. It's beyond hard to accept that the people I turned to for help (doctors) have caused so much harm.

 

I'll end by sharing a positive note. I've finally found a brilliant therapist although it's costing me all the finances I have. The NHS here in the UK provides near-nothing when it comes to mental health care. I have also found a couple of doctors pine who help with medication tapering and following their diet protocols is proving a huge help. So at least that's some light in the darkness.

 

Once again - thank you welcoming me. I could really so with some supportive contact, especially like this in the darkest hours.

[[ma...]]

Hello Rainandroses Welcome to Benzobuddies

 

We are glad you found us, I am sorry you had to deal with major trauma,  such a young age.  “That feeling of wanting to crawl out my my skin”  I think many here have experienced that dreadful feeling.  Well done to you on your taper this far,  It’s great that you found a therapist and doctors support, you will also get plenty of support here. Try not to worry about other meds, i would wait until you are off the benzo first.  You can ask questions about Pregabilin (Lyrica). on Other Medications Board.

 

Benzodiazepines should be tapered slow. In general it’s advised to cut your daily dose by between 5% and 10% every 10 - 14 days. Its okay to taper slower, whatever feels comfortable.  You will find some very valuable support and information on the forum.  Our members are happy to share their personal experiences with you and support you.. Please feel free to browse the boards and post questions to any of the dedicated threads.

 

I am glad you are familiar with the Ashton Manual, It’s great for understanding the effect benzodiazepines have on our body, It also provides tapering and withdrawal information. 

 

I'll leave you a few links:

 

The Ashton Manual. 

Withdrawal Support

General Taper Plans

 

When you can, please add a signature (history of meds/doses etc) it will help members give you relevant advice.  Go to the top of the page and select PROFILE then choose forum profile then insert drug history into the text box and remember to click change profile

 

Welcome aboard

Magrita

 

 

[[ga...]]

Welcome rainandroses. I'm glad you found us. I recently finished my taper. I could not have done it without the information and validation I received on this forum. Spend some time exploring the site and you will find many resources to help you taper off successfully. You will make it and it will be worth it!

 

Gardie