It also says that people who have anxiety and stress along with sleeplessness and nervous depletion may benefit from ashwagandha. An individual can manage benzos withdrawal with a careful and gradual dose reduction, which will result in milder symptoms that will come and go in waves. The information contained in this post is for educational purposes only. Also, women who are pregnant or nursing, and people with liver disease, are discouraged from using valerian. Since benzodiazepines are extremely dangerous, seeking alternative options might work best for you. Benzodiazepines, in particular, are very difficult drugs to taper. Physical dependence may start in just a few weeks, even while taking the medication in low therapeutic doses as prescribed by the physician. In the US, the majority of successful treatment for benzodiazepine withdrawal comes via medically-assisted treatment. Okay, so your doctor prescribed a benzodiazepine, and you're ready to get off. Protein-rich foods, fresh fruits and vegetables, and their smoothies with coconut water are some proven helpful supplements during benzo withdrawal. Patients withdrawing from these agents may experience physiologic withdrawal, rebound, and recurrence. GABA inhibits signal transmission in the brain and thus has a calming effect on the nervous system. Unfortunately, some people are uncomfortable with needles and may disregard the process of acupuncture because of that. I have been exploring what benzos do from an ENERGETIC perspective to the body and mind. Vomiting and nausea from opiate withdrawal can cause loss of electrolytes. Having family or friends who can help with daily tasks, understanding the symptoms, and emotional support are very important in this process. I knew about the grounding which really helped me in acute WD. (2014, January 08). A sensible taper could have prevented this needless suffering. About 2,000 benzos have been produced, and only about 15 have been FDA-approved in the U.S., according to WebMD. But they . Talk to people about how you feel and ask them to support you in your recovery. from https://www.calmclinic.com/blog/calm-clinic-review-b-vitamins, NIH.Office of dietary supplements Vitamin B12. Increased pain. This explanation is why some substance abuse can affect a persons appetite. Benzodiazepines are often called benzos, and they are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. In fact, some benzodiazepines are actually intended to have a slow release of impact on the body. Encourage coping skills. As mentioned before, you may want to speak with a medical or mental health professional who can give you more information about natural remedies you may be considering. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Acupuncture for Anxiety: Benefits, side effects, and what (n.d.). They are most effective when used for short periods but occasionally prescribed for longer durations. Comments are moderated before they are published. Take a look at our state of the art treatment center. However, its important to know the severity of your symptoms by speaking to a doctor first. Natural treatment for anxiety exists and is often the better option when compared to benzos. It does not have a physical dependence risk and relieves emotional withdrawal symptoms. methadone, which helps to relieve withdrawal symptoms and makes the detoxification period easier. There are some natural remedies for benzo withdrawal that you can try out if you are a victim. Benzodiazepine is a treatment commonly prescribed for anxiety. It is also recommended that the patient take GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) with vitamin C in addition to niacin. Encourage acceptance. Daily meditation for anxiety/ insomnia/ depression, etc, has been shown to decrease the sympathetic response (this is the fight-or-flight experience that comes with anxiety and stress), and increase the parasympathetic response (rest, relax, and digest). Specialists will administer long-acting benzos to help taper your dose and gradually reduce the presence of benzos in your body. But quitting almost anything that provides positive feedback in the brain is easier said than done. There are people who move from using these drugs as directed to abusing them as they build a tolerance and as a result, continue taking more and more to get the same effects. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, detoxification alone does not address the psychological, social and behavioral problems associated with addiction and therefore does not typically produce lasting behavioral changes necessary for recovery.. Some of the types of natural ways to ease the symptoms of benzo withdrawal are: It can be difficult to admit to yourself and loved ones that you struggle with addiction. Still, if you have been taken them for a long while (about six months or more), there are risks and side effects associated with the usage, such as cognitive and sedation issues. After this, youre prone to chemical dependency, which can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms or long-term health conditions that stem from addiction. Let your patient know you will support them through this process, no matter how long it takes, and that they will improve with time. You especially may want to do this if you are taking prescription medications or other medications. FHE Health Is Open With Enhanced Safety Protocols Read more. However, the chemical builds up in the fatty tissues of the body and may lead to over-sedation, characterized by the following symptoms: Withdrawal symptoms from short-acting benzos become extreme on the second day but improve by the fourth or fifth day. These drinks can help support the bodys potassium and sodium balance through the entire withdrawal process. How Substance Abuse Can Lead to Mental Illness, Pennsylvania Drug and Alcohol Rehab Center. They should never be used for more than 14 days at a time. The key is to individualize a taper schedule according to your unique biochemistry. Some benefits of professional detoxification and withdrawal management include the following: Professionally supervised and monitored detox and withdrawal management programs are the best and safest way to begin your recovery journey from benzo addiction. We work with you to help you create a better future for you and your family. However, it is possible to move on from benzodiazepine withdrawal and live a healthy life. When you went back in for your follow-up . Learn more here: Take it slow: The research shows that those who taper more slowly tend to do better in the long term. Scientifically proven strategies to help counteract benzo withdrawal; A map of HOW to do a benzo taper in a way that WORKS; Stick around to the end and I'll share with you my next steps so that you can get started today. If you want to be smart, just taper like everyone else should. Such alternative therapies include acupressure or even massage. Strategies like cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, mindfulness training, and exercise can help individuals alleviate anxiety long after they stop using benzodiazepines. They will determine if over-the-counter anxiety medication is a better option. Ironically, other medications can be used to help individuals with benzodiazepine withdrawal, as well. Natural herbs are sometimes used at home to help alleviate illnesses and improve symptoms. In trying to eliminate the withdrawal symptoms, do not attempt to engage in anything that may worsen rather than alleviate the symptoms. A neti pot or other saline nasal irrigation system can be used to clear out sinuses and limit symptoms of seasonal allergies. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. from https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/benzodiazepine-abuse#1, Ashwagandha uses, benefits & Dosage Drugs.com Herbal Database. Adjunctive medications are not necessary but may be helpful in some cases. It can help relieve diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, as well as other symptoms of opioid withdrawal. This result is an indication that acupuncture can be quite valuable in helping to deal with withdrawal symptoms. Successful recovery involves an understanding of something called trigger avoidance. Triggers are objects, people and situations that may make you more likely to slip or relapse. Friends and family will help an individual suffering from benzo withdrawal recover a lot faster than any other natural remedy already explained. Natural. This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. This website is for educational purposes only. This formulation contains nutrients that support the bodys natural production of GABA. Please take time to educate family members about benzodiazepine withdrawal and how they can help their loved ones through this difficult season in their life. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or periods of contemplative prayer. Vitamin B6 helps to boost mood, balance blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy nervous system. Individuals who complete medical detox prior to treatment have higher success rates of recovery, avoiding relapse, and long-term sobriety. Get involved in a licensed treatment program where you have a chance to attend a peer support group. It could potentially save a life. Rather than a warm bath, a heating pad is a better alternative for that kind of situation. Another benefit of diazepam is that it comes in small doses, which not all benzodiazepines do. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. This form of magnesium is able to cross the blood-brain barrier and does not cause looseness of the bowels, a symptom that may occur with the use of magnesium citrate. The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing. Tremors. 2. However, a 2018 analysis also revealed that drug misuse accounts for about 17% of benzos use among adults in the United States alone. Youll be able to start repairing relationships damaged by addiction. Natural anxiety medication isnt addictive and wont cause severe withdrawal symptoms youll experience from prescription medication. People may also have a hard time getting to sleep or staying asleep and worry to the point that they cannot concentrate. Many health researches advise that most people are chronically dehydrated. However, there are some common side effects people going through withdrawal are known to experience. The good news is that you can get well. Next, you may start to suffer from benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. NATURAL WAYS FOR COPING WITH BENZO WITHDRAWAL: Bringing calm, breath support drink the amount of water in ounces = half of your body weight in pounds. Ginkgo biloba. Valium also has lower potency, meaning its easier to make smaller dosage reductions. Many people seek natural remedies for anxiety as a means of avoiding benzodiazepines, but sometimes, it may not be enough. 3 art therapy techniques to deal with anxiety. Many people arent getting enough magnesium in the foods they eat, so a supplement may be necessary. Vista Pines Health 2023. This is why quitting benzos isnt the same as, say, cutting down on screen time or deciding to read more. Drug, Alcohol and Mental Health Treatment. Some days are so bad that coping skills provide minimal help. Be sure to use cool water that has been boiled so that the water is free of parasites or bacteria. At Boardwalk Recovery Center, we have enough experience, hope, and strength to help users overcome any obstacles associated with benzodiazepines. Generally, keeping the body warm can be both soothing and relaxing during withdrawal. 7. I would lay on the hard floor and it really calmed me down. Laughter can cause the body to release endorphins that reduce pain and counteract cravings for substance abuse. Despite their therapeutic benefits, benzos are highly addictive drugs that should be handled with care. Some days are so bad that coping skills provide minimal help. The patients in that study received 10 half-hours acupuncture sessions in a three-month period and noted that they had lowered their anxiety levels. The other 60% suffer just mild symptoms. However, some people suffer the symptoms for several weeks. If you feel wound up and need to calm down or redirect your focus, taking a whiff or sniff of calming or energizing essential oils can help you get back on track. I always feel better for@2days. An individual experiences benzo withdrawal if they stop using a benzodiazepine suddenly after using it heavily or for an extended period of time. In this article, we will discuss: Benzodiazepines are a group of central nervous system depressants used in treating insomnia, anxiety, and seizures. Benzodiazepines Are Prescribed to Help Treat Anxiety, Natural Supplements You Can Use to Manage Anxiety, Natural Alternatives to Managing Anxiety That Dont Involve Meds, Benzo Medications Are Not the Only Way to Treat Anxiety. Saline Nasal Irrigation. Learn how your comment data is processed. While they. As soon as you remove this substance from your system, the resulting period ofbenzo withdrawalcan be extremely uncomfortable. Withdrawal symptoms can differ depending on how long the individual had been abusing benzodiazepines and the dose of the drug they have been taking. Alcohol can result in the deficiency of vitamin B6, folic acid, and thiamine. It is suggested to drink the amount of water in ounces = half of your body weight in pounds . Benzodiazepines are unique because, in many cases, theyre prescribed to the people who become dependent on them. Benzo withdrawal can be very challenging and should ideally always be done under care and supervision. When your worrying and concern interfere with work, relationships, school, or other parts of your life. from https://health.clevelandclinic.org/stressed-out-aromatherapy-can-help-you-to-feel-calmer/, B vitamins that actually work for anxiety. Natural Remedies for Benzo Withdrawal 1. There are other forms of meditation one can engage in to pause and reflect on while they catch their breath.