Hello - new & freaked out

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Hi, I'm here because I've been taking clonazepam/klonopin for about 15-20 years, since I was a teenager (I'm 36). I don't take much, in fact I thought that because I don't take it every single day I  wasn't and wouldn't get addicted. I take about 20-25 .5mg tablets per month. Sometimes more sometimes less. I've been beginning to educate myself and have learned that you can still be addicted even if it's not a daily dose. I also honestly don't know how much of my anxiety it like "real" or how much is low grade klonopin withdrawal. I'm really scared and don't really know how to begin, but I'm going to meet with my doctor this week. My doctor is new and doesn't want me to keep taking clonazepam, which is good. Thanks, glad I found this group, looking forward to learning more.

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Welcome to Benzo Buddies. We know your scared, we all start that way, it's perfectly normal for this to feel frightening and overwhelming. However, we are here to help you learn about tapering, coping and to provide support.

 

We highly recommend tapering your benzo, it gives your nervous system an easier time adapting to the change. Take a look at the various methods and support forums for tapering.

 

You alone are best qualified to determine how quickly to taper, based on your symptoms. Do keep in mind that pushing too fast usually causes undue distress, so find a rate where you feel "stable," and not overwhelmed. It's not a race, it is about healing your nervous system at a rate that is tolerable. I have a hunch you will do fine. And, work with your doctor. You can print out any of our fact pages and share those with her.

 

Use our resource pages and forums to educate yourself on all things benzo, and start incorporating coping techniques. You will need them to get through the rough patches.

 

What is happening in your brain?

 

Planning Your Withdrawal (Taper Plans)

 

Withdrawal Support (during your taper)

Also, fill out your profile so we know which medication your on and your history.  Go to Profile, then Forum Profile, write your pertinent info (benzodiazepine, dose, taper history) in the text box and save. Thanks! Let us know if you need help with this.

 

-The BB team