Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are a class of drugs commonly prescribed for their sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties. They include various addictive benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium and Ativan, which work by enhancing the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, helping the user feel a sense of ease, comfort and safety.

While these effects can help people suffering from conditions including anxiety, panic disorders and insomnia, they have also resulted in high rates of benzodiazepine abuse. Some individuals may take benzos to manage the intense pressure of demanding careers, to ensure they get enough rest despite a hectic schedule or to find temporary relief from the stress of professional and personal responsibilities. This benzodiazepine abuse, while initially effective, can increase the risks of benzodiazepine side effects, including addiction.

In recognition of these risks, benzodiazepines are controlled substances in the UK, with prescriptions required to legally obtain them and severe penalties for unlawful supply, production or manufacture.

Benzodiazepine addiction presents as an individual repeatedly trying and failing to stop using the drugs. This compulsive use continues despite a growing recognition of the harm being caused and results in the prioritisation of benzo over commitments such as health, work and family.

Benzo addiction develops in stages, beginning with medical or illicit use, developing tolerance and then physical and psychological dependence. Benzodiazepines quickly increase the brain’s level of dopamine, which is the chemical responsible for feelings of pleasure. Rather than a natural steady flow, dopamine is released in abnormally high amounts, which makes the sensation intensely pleasurable.

With continued use, the brain then becomes dependent on this external dopamine boost and is unable to immediately go back to normal functioning if benzo use suddenly stops. This creates intense cravings, anxiety and other unpleasant effects known as benzodiazepine withdrawal.

If benzodiazepines are also being used for stress relief or to cope with personal and professional pressure, a psychological dependency can also develop. This creates an overwhelming need to use benzos to manage stress, anxiety and other emotional challenges. The dual nature of physical and psychological dependence makes benzodiazepine addiction particularly challenging to overcome without professional help.

The chemical effects of benzos are primarily responsible for physical dependency, but not everybody who takes them, even in high doses or for an extended period, will become addicted. There are, however, various factors which increase this risk, which include:

Benzodiazepine addiction is an ever-present concern within the UK which is why addictive benzodiazepines are all controlled substances. Despite this, there were 509 benzo-related deaths in England and Wales in 2022, the second-highest number since records began.

Whilst benzodiazepines are only legally available on prescription in the UK, they are also widely available online and through criminal drug dealing. These benzos are sometimes sold as genuine branded medicines in counterfeit packaging but are most commonly sold as generic pills with names such as vallies, blues and benzos. These pills can be significantly more dangerous than their genuinely prescribed counterparts as neither their contents nor potency can be reliably verified.

A Benzodiazepine overdose can occur, particularly when taken concomitantly with other substances such as alcohol, opioids and other sedatives. The signs of a benzodiazepine overdose vary, but all point to a potentially serious medical emergency.

For some people, benzodiazepine overdose may result in lethargy, unconsciousness, confusion and dizziness. Others may experience agitation, increased anxiety or excitability, hallucinations and extreme mood changes. Physical symptoms may involve rapid side-to-side eye movements, blurry vision, slow or slurred speech, low blood pressure, weak pulse, irregular or shallow breathing and uncoordinated movements or shakiness.

If you spot any of these signs of benzodiazepine overdose, you should seek medical attention immediately.

UKAT London Clinic takes a bespoke approach to benzodiazepine addiction treatment that caters to each client’s unique needs. This is done through a customised treatment plan that focuses on the various aspects of benzodiazepine addiction.

The first phase is a medically supervised detox, which usually involves gradually reducing the amount of benzodiazepines taken, which helps to reduce withdrawal symptoms. UKAT London Clinic provides total discretion, allowing our clients the comfort, support and time needed to clear their system of benzodiazepines gradually.

Our therapists and counsellors then work with each client individually to create a comprehensive rehab treatment plan. We have an extensive selection of therapy options available which work in tandem for a holistic recovery.

Once these first two stages are complete, UKAT London Clinic will provide aftercare and ongoing support, which will be designed around our clients’ other responsibilities. This often involves continued therapy, lifestyle coaching and support groups to help you put into practice all the skills you developed during treatment.

If you are struggling with Benzodiazepine addiction, UKAT London Clinic offers tailored, discreet treatment plans designed to address the unique challenges of each client. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through a comprehensive recovery process, ensuring your health, well-being and success are restored. Don’t let benzodiazepine addiction control your life – contact us today and take the first step toward a healthier, more balanced future.