5 Steps to Withdrawal SAFELY from Benzodiazepines | Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium

[@LevelheadedMind]

www.levelheadedmind.com/contact If you need help getting off your benzo medication contact me so we can discuss an appropriate taper plan for you.

[@judyskipper411]

How should i taper if I've only been on .5 twice daily for 32 days?

[@Je-cj2vu]

I need help

[@Je-cj2vu]

I was take Xanax but switch to clonazapam and I’m down to half and next week I’ll take just a piece off clonazapm should I switch to diazepam ??

[@lisaboyle8138]

I only tapered off k for 2 weeks then quit. I've been off now for 8 months and the withdrawal symptoms aren't getting better. The only way I can cope is to drink alcohol. I know this is wrong but I don't know what else to do. Can't eat, leave the house, too dizzy to walk.

[@mickwhelan6707]

I done it all. By myself mate thank you, done cold turkey straight stop from 15mgs then it went down to 10mgs then I just stopped and it was awrfull doctors stopped my medication, it's been 8weeks and I'm still not right, it was really bad the way doctors treared me, still suffering now, it's awrfull,

[@MonacoRocha]

I was on klonopin 1mg. at bedtime for almost 20 years.... 19 months of tapering... alone no support... I've been totally off 18 months now.... I DID IT...!!!! AMEN.!!!!!!!! THANNK YOU GOD....NEVER AGAIN

[@LevelheadedMind]

Congratulations 🎊! That is an awesome accomplishment, you should be very proud 👏

[@MonacoRocha]

@@LevelheadedMind are you trying to get off ?

[@aquarius113]

did u take any meds now?

[@blairsterling6141]

Explain in detail, please, how did you taper ??? Please help us to know more, so we can do a taper. Tell all details,,,rate, % reduction per week / month, how, etc. Etc.

[@josepharsanis20]

I am not familiar with dosages if Klonopin but that was a long , long taper, I am glad your feeling better and your off that poison. You see Big PHARMA that sells these dangerous medications make millions of dollars because the county , state, government usually pays for all these meds, but they Don’t cure diddly, nothing, nada, they only treat the symptoms and have Dangerous side effects that can kill you. To avoid dying, start Googling your questions to find alternative medicines, herbs, that can help. You see most all natural, alternative remedies will help you with no dangerous side effects and they treat the root cause. Thank you, better late than not at all. Joseph

[@omaisgee123]

I'm one of those people who did the rapid detox taper. I was on Klonopin for over 5 years and was given a 7 day taper. Although it was a hellish experience to say the least, I felt about 80% normal after 3 months. I ran about 3 miles a day during those few months to combat the horrible anxiety and restlessness, no matter how shitty I felt. I did not want to be dependant on the drug anymore and had good at home support. It was tough, but after 10 months of being clean I feel great. When I think about how bad I felt going through those several months, I damn near cry tears of joy that I dont have to feel like that anymore. Recovery is definitely possible, I'm proof. 🙏

[@pmkhanofficial3021]

Congratulations God bless you

[@lidiyas7153]

God Bless You for these encouraging words🙏🏼❤️

[@harsh_aryaa]

7 days is way too much quickly 😭😭 i am on klonopin from last 3 years and now started to detox.Its been 1.5 months and I'm on 25% of my initial doses and now started to feel like myself but also having terrible sleeping problems but I'll be good sooner.

[@MakingItHappenMWC]

Nicely done. Glad to hear your story. I'm on the same drugs. Started at 1mg, went to 3mg, now i'm down to .5mg a day. Side affects are nuts. I will say this tho. Exercise helps tremendously.

[@thencarolinaman1934]

@@MakingItHappenMWChow long were you on it before tapering?

[@bigstuff52]

I was on Benzos for 30 years..Tapered off for a year and have been off for 14 months now..Been doing pretty well..Thanks for talking to people about this very important subject...

[@LevelheadedMind]

You're welcome 😊

[@dave4505]

I've been taking three one my tabs of alprazolam for 17+ years. I am currently on month 8 of my taper and I'm down to 0.25 mg of alprazolam and will switch over to diazepine next month and hopefully be on the home stretch from there. So you believe that I will or can feel normal once again after I've fully detoxed of these meds fully? How long was your taper and how long until you started feeling like a productive piece of society again? Any advice you could help me with would be greatly appreciated. I just need to know that there is an end to this nightmare. I believe I've been suffering from some percentage of withdrawal for the past 14+ years and didn't realize it until I started watching these videos. Thanks in advance. Good luck.

[@lifeofavai1848]

Please help , I am taking 0.5 mg I will stop after 10 days will it be problem for me ?

[@bigstuff52]

@@dave4505 Sorry I didn't see your question till today..5/4/2024..Sure,there is an end to it..The main thing is trying not to go back when the going gets tough..If things keep going the way they have,I'll say 2 more years to recovery...

[@Rollwithit699]

​@@LevelheadedMind Was first on Xanax for six years, was then switched to Klonopin 1-2 mg, as directed, for total of close to 29 years for sleeping issues and mild anxiety. Had never been told there was any problem with long term use. Years before I stopped taking it, I was having frequent migraines, chronic eye twitching, daily anxiety, and weird episodes of severe heart pounding, deeper anxiety, hyperventilation, impaired focus at work, a profession I had been in for 40 years and was top of my game. I was actually let go for the first time in my long career, unbelievable. Doctors, including neurologists, had absolutely no idea why this was happening, though they saw my records and med list which included the Klonopin, Flexeril, Neurontin and occasional 800 mg Motrin. I was diagnosed with chronic migraines and "central sensitivity." No treatment or suggestions were offered. In 2020 I happened to watch a Jordan Peterson video discussing benzos, their dangers and potential for brain damage and dementia if taken over 2-4 weeks! I was shocked, worried, contacted my doctor requesting to stop taking them. All she said was "okay, STOP." No mention of taper. I've never taken another. Stopped Flexeril at that time too. I was almost 69 then and have lived alone for many years. Withdrawal was so bad, I was sure I was dying. Part of my brain also kept telling to go outside and throw myself in front of a car in the busy street next to my apartment complex. Never had those thoughts before. I sent my doctor portal messages begging for help. I couldn't speak and make sense so couldn't use the phone, which increased my anxiety anyway. She would only have nurse respond with "call for appointment". Obviously I couldn't drive at this time. I had extreme fear, panic, heart pounding, hyperventilation, migraines, sweating, itching, burning, cramping, aching, muscle spasms, spinning sensation, weeping. Could only fall asleep for an hour occasionally and would have terrifying nightmares. Couldn't think clearly, couldn't be still...always pacing. Trouble with swallowing. Severe ear ringing/whooshing sounds. Severely hot, then freezing. Obviously I could not drive. Ordered Amazon food delivery. Hid all this from my busy adult children who don't contact me much except through text, easy to lie on texts.."I'm good" when asked. I had always been a very strong woman, don't complain to others. So no help from Doctors. No "support" from friends or family. I'm now 70 y/o, 42 months out from cold turkey off klonopin. Of course have discovered this is a widespread problem that my doctor and the others SHOULD have known about. I'm now diagnosed with fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, anxiety, and a new one.. "idiopathic small fiber peripheral polyneuropathy." Not one doctor has ever suspected my longterm benzo use and sudden cold turkey withdrawal as a possible source of any of this.

[@jbwetzstein]

We need more medical professionals who understand not everyone can come off these meds easily. Some of us go through hell to get off these drugs. Thank you for this video!

[@bruceelias2732]

Thank you so much for your advice and how did it go about this. So far I've had three psychiatrists who don't want to deal with it in my area. They said I have to go somewhere to get detox before they can help me The whole idea is to get help from a psychiatrists??

[@bruceelias2732]

Thanks You are right 👍

[@harleyd.1er326]

Yes i had a drink problem 2 bottles of whisky a day 7 days a week i was much younger then but i weaned myself off even though it took 2 months, i havent had one drink i 24 years. but i started taken Xanax 2 years ago and i am on 60 mg per day just to feel normal, cutting back very slow. i am tough but i never thought it would be so hard, already had a stroke as i was cutting them off to fast. i have had countless battles in my life but nothing like this shit. be safe. Harley.

[@gamingwithkev8208]

Man we truly do. This is getting worse and becoming a serious problem.

[@katrinamenzies9398]

Heather Ashton manual

[@greenthumbstrummer]

I just want to let all of you know that I was taking 2 mg of Klonopin every single day for 7 years straight. I tapered down my dose by 25% a week until getting down to .25 mg. Then I started taking every other day for 2 weeks and then every third day for another 2 weeks. I literally had zero withdrawal symptoms. I remember thinking that I can't believe there are all these nightmare stories online about this and I could have done this so much sooner. By no means am I suggesting that this is the proper way to do it and by no means am I saying that this will be the case for everyone. I'm just sharing the story because it was literally only MY FEAR of suffering through withdrawals that kept me from trying for the longest time. I have been off of all benzodiazepines for over 5 years now and have never looked back. Give yourself more credit than the typical person and do what needs to be done

[@LevelheadedMind]

Thanks for sharing your story of hope 🙏

[@CuriousLindZ]

This is where im st exact dose n 7 yrars. I wanna feel again. Im.over bring numb on s out ¾s of a 2 mg pin r.n. I don't notice a difference but I hsve been depressed do i don't think i will unless ot becomes physical. I van get threw thst i jist stress the post acute withdrawal also I have horrible ATV and obviously when you're getting off the anti-anxiety medication you can't engage with any caffeine that's going to make you even more anxious so I just feel like Ill be and even more of a brain frogs thrn im already in. But ty for this video there are so many others that 0 hope..both this Bavarian formative video and the comment section are filled with specially this, in particular for me

[@victoriawilson7292]

Totally agree. I do think there should be a more positive discourse around benzos. I was put on Ativan to help me adjust to SSRIs following a serious mental breakdown. Took 1.5mg for nearly five months and it frankly saved my life. No side effects - unlike Sertraline! - I didn't remotely become addicted and tapered successfully with NO withdrawal symptoms whatsoever. If used properly, benzos are, in my view, unrivalled when it comes to treating anxiety. I would take Ativan again in a heartbeat. I'm unsure why medical professionals, like this lady, aren't keen to highlight more of the positives of these medications.

[@lifeofavai1848]

I am taking sedoxil 0.5 mg I will stop after 10 days will it be problem for me ?

[@Skinny_Karlos]

You're very fortunate, I hope you know that. I can't go three days without withdrawals starting and only getting worse and once did 11 months cold turkey and had to go back as this takes years, literally years. Ohh, it can be hellish, that's for sure.

[@RainbowCatASMR]

Love the amount of empathy displayed in this video 🙏

[@jacksoncurtain9612]

This video is pretty good advice regarding stopping benzos. I finished a 10 month taper 5 months ago. Five months after taking my last dose, I feel so much better, but I can tell my brain is still healing. My reactions to stress are much better and zinc and magnesium help alot. Each person is different, so listen to your body and go slow if possible. Stay away from sleeping pills and alcohol.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Thank you for sharing your story and providing encouragement to others.

[@deliveredbyjace5977]

I’ve been on 2mg of Xanax for over 5 years for epilepsy. My psychiatrist went on vacation and the nurse practitioner reduced my Rx to 1mg bc she didn’t want to get her “license taken away.” I went through collosal hell and she neglected to refill my Rx after 30 days. Another nurse practitioner finally refilled my Rx. I’m so grateful for your video and wish there were more compassionate and competent doctors who actually treat their patients and don’t fear that their license will be taken away.

[@gloriakurkowski101]

As a nurse myself, I was not aware of Xanax being such a wicked drug. Even at a low dosage, doctor's should be held responsible for not informing patients of it's short term use only and it can cause dependency or a hellish addiction.

[@9876432234545]

It’s insane how psychiatrists and nurse practitioners for them don’t understand that Benzo withdrawal is one of the most difficult things in the world. I had been on Xanax for 7 years peak dose at 7mg daily but tapered down to 2mg. I told my nurse one day during a monthly checkin that I had a panic attack earlier that week and required to take an extra 1mg that day. MISTAKE, later that night I got a call from their office saying they would have to discontinue seeing me or I had to go to a detox center to withdrawal in 14 days due to “abuse.” I thought this was ridiculous and talked to my actual psychiatrist and not the nurse, they agreed to taper me off from 2mg to 0 in 3 months time cutting the prescription in half each time. Needless to say I went through hell, it didn’t work and I had to get back on. Now I’m at 1mg daily and trying to get down that last bit, thanks for the video.

[@deliveredbyjace5977]

@@9876432234545 It is sheer, unbearable mental and physical pain to say the least. And it feels like time moves so slowly as the painful withdrawals gnaw at your body.

[@michaelblasius4967]

Xanax isn’t indicated for epilepsy. It’s not an evil drug, unless it’s used improperly, like your situation. I have been on the same dose, thinking about reducing or eliminating the dose, and I keep seeing issues like this come up. Doctors, who aren’t burnt out, or at least haven’t lost their memory, should know that it’s going to be a pain in the ass to get off the stuff.

[@sr2291]

​@Gloria Kurkowski What drug would you use to replace 3/4 of a .25 of a Xanax long term for insomnia and severe restless leg and whole body jumps?

[@johnglavey808]

As a retired psychotherapist may I compliment you on an excellent presentation. My biggest gripe at the moment is not the drug but the medical practitioners. "Lets make money quickly" seems to be the dictum . " Do no harm " is a thing of the past.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Thank you! I too believe that many providers and even patients are just looking for a quick fix without thinking of long term consequences. My next video may interest you. It's on my treatment philosophy skills before pills, it will upload tomorrow.

[@katrinamenzies9398]

@@LevelheadedMindbig pharma have known about benzodiazepines since the 50 s they know how they create chemical dependency they should be sued

[@danajacobs9097]

​@GG_GoneGirl777he isn't supposed to do that. What is he trying to do? Kill you?

[@anncook6567]

you are right. these primary care doctors just give it to you feely and you have come back every three months to get more and before you know it you are in a hole you can't dig out of, I have tapering for over a year. I went from 3 pills a day i am on 1 a day now. i do have a doctor helping me through this part. Three pills a day for 12 years.

[@nancypatch6228]

My doctor never told me it was addictive have been on them 10 yrs 3mg daily and l’m 75 is it worth trying to get off

[@patrickhyatt172]

Every human reading this, stock up your meds and taper HOW YOU WANT

[@hbinfinity]

AMEN. I'm lucky to have a good doc who knows what's up, but most don't. So talking to a provider? Ehh.... You need to have the RIGHT PERSON with common sense in that role.

[@aquarius113]

@@hbinfinity u take benzo also?

[@hbinfinity]

@@aquarius113 yeah, I was on a dangerous thyroid med (Armour) and was overmedicated. It turns out I don't even have a thyroid problem. But for 8 months, docs left and right told me my problems were anxiety related. They weren't. I was eating poison for almost a year and getting worse. So a really well meaning doc gave me Ativan. Wasn't on it that long. Found out in the UCSF ER what was wrong. Stopped taking the poison. Tried to titrate off Ativan. Realized I was physically dependent. But I've been titrating off with a new doc who gets it. She switched me to Valium which has a long half life. Much easier. I'm down to 1/4ths of what I was, so a little more way to go.

[@MikaSerbian]

Yeah i kinda do that ,i suffer insomnia for years i sleep 4-5 hr with waiking up every 2hr,valium is only that works for me

[@aquarius113]

@@MikaSerbian u take it daily?any side effect?thnks

[@albertmarnell9976]

The Ashton Manual is the best in addition to her lectures. She is no longer with us. No one lives forever.

[@GCT1990]

Typically I see videos like these and take issues with most material produced to the masses, it's incredible how little psychiatrists know about Benzodiazepine induced nervous system iatrogenic injuries, I my self took 7 years protracted withdrawal to heal with more phsycial symptoms and perceptional issues then mental... But what a ride of daily symptoms. You may be the first I've come across who understands this hellish process. Your a national treasure, keep up the great work we need folks like you. Thank you for the information and much love to you and your family, stay safe out there

[@LevelheadedMind]

Thank you, that means a lot. It is unfortunate that this is not taught in medical schools. What we are taught is that you can safely detox someone in 2 weeks, which is insane. I learned about this hellish process via working at a detox clinic that did just that and saw so many patients suffer. Some were detoxed in 1 week! I knew there was a better way, and then I found the Ashton Manual which I use with my patients who suffer from this and yes, it may take many years, but we celebrate the small wins and keep moving forward. I am glad to hear that you finally overcame your symptoms. I hope that you will continue to gain mental health fitness and clarity in life, as mental health care is a daily process and we must nurture it daily. Take care and God Bless🙏🏽

[@GCT1990]

@@LevelheadedMind see the fact that you're open about what's being taught in schooling/training while being open minded enough to challenge such teachings, or saying "Hey... 2 weeks doesn't seem logical" makes you my damn hero (Excuse my language) Better yet and something that almost brought me to tears is when you spoke about using out sources like "The Ashton Manual"... You have no idea what that means to those of us who had to live in benzo related communities such as Facebook groups and Benzo buddies due to not being taken seriously. From the bottom of our hearts, everyone fighting the good fight... Thank you so much for just being a damn good human being, continuing to take those who don't fit a traditional model of disease or conditions serious enough to branch out and follow a educational road less followed. You rock you absolutely rock 😭keep on kicking ass and taking names lol (but not literally... That's jail time haha)

[@LevelheadedMind]

@@GCT1990 Thank you so much! It's helping people like you that keeps me going! You are the true rock star! 🌟

[@melanie98d]

Very well done video. Thank you. I've been completely off for nearly 14 months. My Gaba receptors are still struggling but it makes me happy to see more clinicians understand the hell of this journey with benzos

[@LevelheadedMind]

Congratulations for getting off. Yes, I understand the struggle for sure. To help the process you can do some exercises to elicit the relaxation response. Such as belly breathing, yogic breathing styles, vagal massage, mindful meditation and much more. This video is one where I teach some breathing techniques which may help. I wish you all the best on your mental health care journey 🙏 kzbin.info/www/bejne/nH3FZ3amjLt9irc

[@jamesress9624]

Ok

[@laurenwallace861]

Can you share your withdrawal symptoms?

[@DamagedLion]

I was on 5mg a day klonopin ..I did cold turkey now am free from klonopin for 3 months ..but having mouth pain inflamation inner cheek atrophy ..somone please advice me what should I do

[@melanie98d]

@@DamagedLion I'm sorry you are struggling. Stay as hydrated as possible. Drinking lots of water may help. I noticed a slight improvement and still do with any inflammation or allergy issue. It will improve. You got this.

[@waynelotz462]

12 yrs on Ativan given 8 months to ween..4yrs later still have physical issues such as walking…blood pressure issues..amongst horrible symptoms with withdrawals from these types of meds….absolutely slow safe taper…thank you for caring and sharing this video

[@lululove6175]

It was an absolute pleasure talking to you Jezell. Thank you for the information that those of us who are damaged by these drugs desperately need and dont get from our psychiatric practitioners. Will be in touch.

[@LevelheadedMind]

My pleasure !

[@Nightwalker25-m3u]

Your an actual caring person, unlike many doctors in this world that ive heard about.

[@taniafleming4859]

Most doctors just don't understand and are cruel. This video is great, spot on. Unless you've experienced taking benzodiazepines then withdrawing off they just don't get it.

[@SuperReznative]

Been there done that ,over a decade ago ,I my own ,when support groups weren't and family members sabbatoge , out of jealously.After 10 years ( divorce and distance)my own daughter upon taking phsyc. university blindsided me with an arrest towards a phsyc ward.. claiming I wasn't taking my meds, and threatening people?....which there was no cause.But only exasperated the stigmas and rumors in the village and small towns around me.God hates witchcraft, God hates gossip

[@WTB_Acts]

I was on 1 mg for about a year. Ive been reducing my dose by 0.25 every three weeks. It has its moments. But im definitely handling it better than i thought i would. Only 6 more weeks to go.

[@panoramicnomadic]

Hi, how are you doing now?

[@ferosemariehass4576]

How to cut the 0.25 mg

[@WTB_Acts]

@ I just cut it with a pill cutter. I went back up to 0.5 life happened

[@WTB_Acts]

@@panoramicnomadic I’m okay. I was down to 0.3 but I’m back up to 0.5 for a second. Too many things happened and made me a anxious wreck

[@joebaumann3620]

i think this is the first time I've seen someone tell me I don't HAVE to go through the hell of getting off of the meds that are the only thing that even help my panic/anxiety disorder at all. Been on for over 20 years but my Dr has been cutting me down and since I haven't felt right for a year now. I would rather just be comfortable and live the rest of my life taking my 4 bumped up to 5 bars a day soon so I can live the rest of my life not having to worry constantly.

[@3315nostrand]

I agree ,if it helps you ,stay on it .Im 73 and most likely will be on 2 mg a day for the rest of my life ,make sure your doctor does blood work every 6 months....

[@THXx1138]

Unfortunately there is no method to get free of these drugs that guarantee a pain-free withdrawal. In fact, it is very rare that someone experience no symptoms while removing this drug.

[@Pravduh]

Thank you for explaining how GABA receptors work with and while tapering alprazolam! My psychiatrist told me that I needed to taper down, and she reduced the number of milligrams that I was taking without an explanation of how the taping process would work. She didn’t even tell me how many milligrams to take each day. She just started reducing the pills. I’m so grateful for your video because it has explained so much to me. I think this is the type of video that all patients who take benzodiazepines should watch. I’m currently taking 0.5mg of Xanax a day, and I’m excited to start my healing journey. Thank you again!!!!

[@LevelheadedMind]

This is great news! I'm glad you've gotten so far on your taper. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️

[@waqasbaig3327]

When I moved states my new provider did this and didn’t explain ugh. I’m at a better state of mind but I’d like to know what to expect before a deep dive. Can’t wait for us to get over the final hurdle.

[@freedomwarrior5087]

That's because your psychiatrist could give a sh!t less. I hope you are free now from both the benzo and the demonic psychiatrist.

[@Pravduh]

@@freedomwarrior5087 yes and yes!!!!

[@freedomwarrior5087]

@@Pravduh Good for you! Great news. Thanks for the response.

[@francescag6889]

7 years and 3 years off a CT of Valium/Ambien. Living life normally and able to drink alcohol. Never CT off any benzo and I am forever grateful to have healed.

[@rameshlumb4003]

@francescag how many years u feel dp Dr

[@Noir-sr5bw]

I Have bad dpdr it never goes numb and. Y head of 34 months it's torchure

[@lindadominy3804]

I have watched this video six times and I feel so much better with the common sense strategy and encouragement you expresss! I feel more confident about tapering slowly and doing it right! I’m sure I will watch this over and over again because you give me a plan and hope! Thank you so much! 👏👏🥰

[@craig6460]

I'm on a diazepam taper journey. My initial dose was 15mg/day for muscle spasms that I was getting secondary to a now-treated condition. Since the root cause of the spasms is now fixed, I'm tapering off the diazepam. So far weaned myself down to 6mg/day over around 6 weeks and experienced mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms along the way. Hoping to be off it completely as soon as my body will let me. It really is a case of listening to your body's response to the taper. There are times when I've felt crazy coming off this... it's tough going but will be worth it in the end. Staying strong 💪 Mindset control and meditation will be the key to my success. I will achieve this. ✨️

[@andrianablanco3530]

Shoot that is fast, I am tapering 7% of the pills weight by filing with a nail file and weigh it on a jewelry scale that take down to 0.001 every 4-6 weeks. It will take me 3 years to come off. After failing my first try going to fast. Please go slow ❤

[@craig6460]

@@andrianablanco3530 I've continued down to 4mg/day now and will stay on this level for a week or so. Managing to taper 0.5mg every week or there abouts. In no rush to taper off completely. Working within my body's limits and doing alright 🙂 If it takes me a year from now, so be it. Encouraged by my progress so far. Good luck in your taper journey x

[@ellie67888]

This is awesome news. Keep going. You’ve got this!! I have started a very slow taper this week. 🙏🙏

[@craig6460]

@@ellie67888 3.5mg now and taking my little wins week by week. I will beat this 💯 Slow consistent progress is the best way to go 🙂🐌

[@Rollwithit699]

You're on a diazepam taper "journey"? 🙄 Sounds so...ridiculously mystical when you put it that way. How's that "journey" going? I'm on a cold turkey Klonopin "journey" after taking it 29 years, as directed, with no prior knowledge of its potential for brain damage. When I learned of these dangers, I told my doctor I wanted to stop taking it and her response was "okay, STOP!" No mention of taper. I hope your "journey" is going better than my "journey."

[@allfiredup200099]

best video on how to i have seen. been off two years now +still recovering.i think it was worth it.

[@alexcapos6222]

Someone that actually gets it. I also went through a 7 day detox and cut off. Knlonopin, man it's been 3 weeks the first 2 weeks were hell. I'm feeling better now.. Hopefully I start feeling better. I believe in myself!

[@LevelheadedMind]

It does get better with time. Use this time to clean up your diet, improve your lifestyle, exercise, and get out in nature. You will feel even better day by day!

[@17.2Miles]

What was your dose? I'm in hell right now on day 4. The demons are really bad right now. Hard to even breathe. Glad you made it over the hump.

[@AprilRanta]

@@17.2Mileshow are you feeling now?

[@jucasan19]

Listening and reading to all the stories from this , the people who has healed the fastest are the ones who exercise.

[@emlo9103]

im beginning to think that the best way to do it is take a year and cut up your pill all the way down to micrograms

[@ladyanne8139]

I was put on diazapam 45 yrs ago for serious Graves Disease which included Chorea. A horrible muscle jerking .. uncontrollable. Only 1 to 2 % of pts with Graves Disease has this awful symptom. I still have moments I feel my muscles jumping on their own. I wish you would speak on the benefits to the brain. Not just the negatives. My doctor saved my life. I truly believe so.

[@dustygatrell-ru7tg]

The truth is that benzos or any other phyc drug dint actually improve Brain function. They just change your brains chemistry up. No phyc drugs actually hsve any real benifits too your brain.

[@thomas2236]

I feel like my body and mind are two different entities right now. Nauseous, headache, high level of anxiety, can't sleep. Pure torture, i'm gonna go insane.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Hang in there and discuss your symptoms with your provider, perhaps you are tapering off too quickly! Stay hydrated, drink good organic bone broth for support, and even consider an amino acid supplement- after you discuss it with your provider, of course! God Bless 🙏🏽

[@thomas2236]

@@LevelheadedMind Thnx for the support. I'm gonna stay on the same dose a couple of weeks and try to get some sleep. The only thing remotely funny in this misery are the lucid dreams.

[@kdcbattlecreek]

Thank you! I have been on Diazepam (high dose) and Baclofen for 4 years for stiff person syndrome, to control serious muscle spasms. New neurologist is concerned with long term brain effects and ordered me to taper Valium. No guidance was given, no discussion of any replacement treatment for the underlying condition. My body depends on current dose. I ended up calling a neighbor twice in a week to help me get into a wheelchair I hardly use. This information will help me ask more questions.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Thank you for watching the video and sharing your story. I'm glad to hear this video was useful. It seems irresponsible of a doctor not to give you a taper schedule, that should definitely be addressed. You shouldn't have to go at it alone. Also, check out the support groups I linked to in the description of the video. You can get lots of support there. I wish you all the best 🙏

[@panoramicnomadic]

I would try another neurologist because this one seems cruel! You should be able to stay on the meds if they are helping you and there is limited treatment for stiff person syndrome. I wish you well and hope you find a compassionate doctor!

[@kdcbattlecreek]

​@@panoramicnomadic I am still on Valium and other treatment. I rediscovered the Ashton taper schedule online and gave it to Dr. I will be able to at least lower the dose. Since last post, the only spasms seem to be because my back is very weak. PT is helping that. Moving along!

[@kdcbattlecreek]

@@LevelheadedMind thank you. There was a bit more to the story, but not much. Thank you for the information!

[@Qwalnuts]

Was in the process of going on my own withdrawal schedule separate from my doctor. You've clearly demonstrated the error I am in the process of committing. Thank you for this information!

[@AkathisiaWarrior]

Yeah. My doctor sent me to detox to get off Klonopin. I never got to taper. Took as prescribed for 16 yrs. They don’t taper, you’re cut off. I was treated like an addict. When I came home with Akathisia and was freaking out, the doctor dropped me. Have had Akathisia 5 yrs now.

[@guncontrolisusingbothhands2331]

Those drugs cause a deficiency in B6 and B12. They mess up the intrinsic factor proteins in the stomach that absorb B12 and B6. Akathisia is a symptom of deficiency in B6 and or B12. Good luck and God Bless

[@Steven-l4m9v]

Your regular provider or GP knows nothing about the withdrawl I was told by my GP it’ll be completely out of your system in five days, so I don’t know what you’re talking about

[@keithmurf426]

Things that will help withdrawal are as follows….. Vervain, skullcap, motherwart, passionflower, lemon balm, ginger, onion, l-theanine, taurine, Amanita Muscaria mushrooms, reiki, positive thinking and breath work( very important) ☮️❤️to all you can do this!!!

[@ivetachmelarova8938]

I have been on clonopin for more than 10 years now. I am on 4 mg a day. Also I use buprenorphine as an opioid substitution since 2012. I cannot even imagine I should stop taking benzodiazepines.. even tappering is as hard. Yea I am 33 and I would like to be clean. But I am afraid it is not possible yet

[@hagardeviking9314]

I start my withdraw from Alprazolam (Xanax) after 12 years on 1 July 2024... I slept the first weeks only 1 hour/night, now after 5 months I sleep 04:30h/night.... So I hope for more hours/night, but it goes slow. Keep up the good spirit !!

[@jaypalnitkar4400]

My doctor prescribed clonazepam 1 year back ..... I knew immediately what to do. Stopped visiting her and started taking things more easily in life. Diet changes, yoga and watching movies etc. I still have anxiety but never taken a pill in life and will never ever. Once you accept anxiety, you get used to living with it.

[@jaypalnitkar4400]

@Ksenia Rasputin there are more suicides after taking anxiety medication than with anxiety itself

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

DO NOT TRY COLD TURKEY. i had severe seizure requiring hospitalisation.

[@brianjansen3103]

After taking 2mg of Klonopin daily for 20yrs I'd say the withdrawal lasted about 6 months, it was like waves that gradually lessened in frequency & eventually stopped, it took so long I almost didn't notice it had stopped

[@jaryee]

Hi, can I ask how much you reduced your dose by at every drop?

[@brianjansen3103]

@@jaryee my doctor put me on a .5mg taper every month so 4 months to go from 2mg to 0. It was too fast imo but better than cold turkey but just hang in there because it does go away & you'll be free after that & you can't put a price on freedom

[@brianjansen3103]

@@jahzarasoulflower9251 I used mainly cannabis to ease the withdrawal symptoms & get rest, smoking & vaping cannabis during the day for acute anxiety attacks & eating edibles for sleep at night. Hang in there it doesn't last forever, though it can seem that way you can outlast the symptoms & free yourself from the dependence & it's definitely worth it

[@taransingh6935]

This would help people dealing with withdrawal especially insomnia - I was prescribed 0.5mg xanax after a surgery and I took it longer than prescribed. Unknowingly I stopped taking it thinking I no longer need it. And the days to follow were a pure hell. I was anxious and I couldn't get any sleep. I barely slept for a week which made my anxiety worse. Thankfully, I am into ayurveda so I researched and took wintercherry(ashwagandha), Indian pennywort(brahmi) and valerian root(tagara) extract. And I finally got 8 hours of good sleep that night and woke up with no anxiety. I hope this helps anyone dealing with withdrawals.

[@noleslee85]

May I ask where to get all the stuff you took? Is it something you made or do you buy all that stuff and where do you get it

[@taransingh6935]

@@noleslee85 many brand in India sell these herbs. I ordered it from himalaya.

[@samirkadour5130]

For how long those withdrawal symptoms persist

[@tiffhamill567]

🎉 yay.. I’m off Valium (after 5 years or more) it was tough but I prayed and never gave up. Between that and Propanalol , I had nighttime hallucinations and when I got off I do not have these ‘visions’

[@LevelheadedMind]

Glad to hear you did it! Definitely worth celebrating!

[@timothyayers8596]

Propranolol should be used with great caution in psychiatric patients. It’s a blood pressure medication and the blockade of beta receptors has been associated with depression and interruption of sleep. It’s off label use in anxiety is troubling. It does work in a onetime dose before say public speaking as it tamps down the physical symptoms of anxiety but long term use is I’ll advised in my opinion

[@cynthiahowell4566]

The only way I

[@AngelaTurner-iy8jl]

Thank u

[@AngelaTurner-iy8jl]

Worse choice was taking those things

[@annesmith3183]

Your title should read "5 Steps to Withdraw SAFELY from Benzo . . ." Excellent information. Thank you

[@Mike_The_Hog_A_Nator]

Oh Lord, after I was injured in a Chemical Plant explosion back in 97', I started taking pain meds (Vicodin HP) & Xanax/Klonopin. One day I just got sick after taking a pain pill & I got on Suboxone but my doctor kept me on Klonopin & even up'd my dosage to 8mg a day for many, many years now. I'm Bi-Polar & have been on SSI/DI & all the medication we tried worked the opposite on me of what they were supposed to do. Klonopin was the only med that kept me normal so to speak. I don't have Bi-Polar up & down episodes since starting Klonopin. I'm still taking 8/2mg Suboxone 2 a day & 2mg Klonopin 4x a day for many years as stated. I'm now feeling more & more tired each day & I just want to lay down but I can't sleep. I do have Paranoid Episodes every now & then also. I'm just lost

[@LevelheadedMind]

I hope you start feeling better and find a plan that works well for you.

[@SAMEntalhealth]

I was taking Xanax for maybe a couple months at 1 mg or one and a half, and started to feel withdrawal symptoms, so what I did was I started to use the bare minimum when I felt the most brutal symptoms and then I would take a beta blocker to go longer without the benzo, and when the worst of the symptoms came back I would pretty much break a 1mg into four pieces and take a quarter at a time. Now my body is adjusting to a quarter of a milligram and taking away all the symptoms, so now I will just stick with that and then jump off and just use the beta blockers. I also have thyroidism so it's very complicated for me which is also why I got hooked on the opioids because they help hyperthyroidism symptoms. But now I just want off everything and I am getting my thyroid under control

[@grigorijiks2303]

are you healed sucessuflly?

[@kimbo7970]

Great clear, well-structured & clear video. I've been on diazepam for 30 years (I'm 61). Current dosage 14mg daily. Originally prescribed for severe social anxiety which I have had since my teens & severely affected my social functioning. Is it too late to withdraw completely? Maybe at my age I need to be on say 5mg for the rest of my life? Incidentally I have never exhibited benzo tolerance. My underlying anxiety disorder is still present, so at least I am getting relief from this & am "functional". Because of the long time I have been on the medication, I fear a very long (I've heard up to 5 years) withdrawal period to enable the natural GABA to "return". I want to become a truck driver which demands zero benzos, so I my be nearly 70 before I am completely "free", so my dream of this new career may have to be abandoned. Any comments would be welcome.

[@LevelheadedMind]

You're never to old to taper. However it would be a long process. So it would be a personal decision. You have to weigh the pros and cons.

[@outdoorswithwoodswoman8467]

been on them 48 years down to .25 lowest dose and I can n will do this...go slow taper have faith..you can do all things thru christ..gods strength

[@bigstuff52]

I was on for 30 years ..You can do it,you just have to go slow..6 mg is the max recommended dose.. A lot of what your taking is overkill but remember,slow is the way to go..I recommend Benzobuddies which Levelheaded has linked to..Be careful,go slow and you can make it..Again,remember Benzobuddies as a good starting point..Lots of people to help..

[@deanstephens5940]

I've been on four bars a day for the past 9 or so years. I hate it. With the help of my Dr, I'm down to three bars a day.(But I also take 100mg of amitriptyline a day and 60mg of Prozac.) I'm also on four 10mg doses of Vicodin a day. I look forward to working with my Dr in order to get this crap away from me. The addiction is a bastard and I wouldn't wish it on my worse enemy. Be strong and keep fighting folks! If there's hope for an old head like me, there's definitely hope for y'all!

[@SuperReznative]

Did it over a decade ago when there was no "help" or support groups available locally Ask Jesus to help you along the way spiritual warfare is real

[@MegaMonic9]

Heather Ashton was my favourite. But after 12 years of benzo addiction, I couldn't get the help I thought I knew i needed, in the UK. Ended up taking what I thought was benzos, bought online, and managed to get back into work. Basically, had around 17 months of terror but at the same time, slowly returned to a relatively normal way of life. Now in a place I never believed I'd be. Took 15mg 'valium' in the last 3 weeks. Just when I thought I needed it. Took 40mg valium or 4mg lorazepam for 6 years before reducing. Thought all doctors didn't have a clue when I talked about Ashton. They won't help in the UK. But all is good. A year and a half later, with no help, many terrible days (more terrible nights) seems a long time. But you can make it. Without a strict withdrawal. Coz that may well see you going back in the same way. Don't get too organised. May work for you you but would never have worked for me. It's totally possible. Happy to talk to anyone in person as I thought I'd never be able to get out of it and did so on the strangiest of ways.

[@aquarius113]

did u have any side effect while taking it daily?

[@MegaMonic9]

Hi Aquarius, not many side affects 'whilst' taking. Only once I started to reduce. I personally came off around 6 years of 4mg Lorazepam a day but only when I found Flubromazepam. This has a crazy long half life. And for this reason I didn't feel much at all as I reduced to the equivalent of 1mg Lorazepam. After that, didn't know what to do as in the UK there are really no plans available to slowly withdraw. I did it in about 17 months without really knowing. I was talking kratom and drinking a lot at the same time so 17 months off panic attacks and horrible anxiety, sometimes psychosis didn't really tell me that I was slowly withdrawing from the benzos. Hope you're in a good place now. Message me whenever. I've had to withdraw from many things in my life but the happiest I've been was when I realised that I no longer need to take benzos. After 12+ years.

[@SpokenVerse]

@@aquarius113 ,

[@aquarius113]

@@MegaMonic9 i still hd problem sleeping and at time i tke melatonin and it only works sometimes..

[@markpalavosvrahotes5575]

I cold Turkeyed off of Klonopin a month ago. That’s a tough one to get off. I was up for six nights and six nights. Could not form a complete sentence for a little while. But now things are getting better. I can sleep a little bit. Still have a few symptoms like chills sweating but I think I will be OK. Those were good instructions though.

[@ryan8430]

Step one dont almost killed me multiple times alcohol and benzos were the scariest withdrawals I've ever experienced

[@kimtodd1803]

Yes I am requiring to decease lorzepam I am down 1.5mg My Dr has explain why he taking off his patients of benzodiazepine I have been on this medication since 25 yrs it helps so many way. Plus I chronic lung disease

[@SuperReznative]

Sorry to see this, Did it only own over a decade ago ,, didn't know if any help ,or support groups,,divorce elevated stress lost custody, friends. family, my hopes and dreams,drained over and over ,destroyed life ,,Rumors gossip,small towns

[@sharon8121]

My withdrawal was so traumatic it made me worse. I was given a welfare check by a PCP who felt my benzo dose was too high. The cops came to my door and when I resisted arrest I got punched in the face by a cop. The psych hospital took me off in 3 weeks!!! After 3 decades. I was 53 and lived alone. I became bed ridden. I never watched a video like this. How is it a HOSPITAL thought it was ok to whip me off of benzos in 3 weeks! I was taking a large amount of ativan at the time. They put me on antipsychotic meds that made me worse.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Wow Sharon! Thanks for sharing your story. I am sorry to hear that you had to go through such a rough experience. The truth is most doctors aren't trained in benzo withdrawal and they will just go by the "safe" medical model and not take into account that your brain takes time to fully recover and reignite those GABA receptors which have been hijacked by the benzodiazepines. That's why I felt it was important to make this video. Please feel free to share it with anyone who may be struggling with this. Thank you ❤️

[@sharon8121]

@@LevelheadedMind That incident created 6 years of the worse suffering imaginable, mentally, physically and monetarily. Just putting back pieces.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Keep on moving forward and putting the pieces back... it will all come back together for you. Thanks for sharing your story as it sheds hope for those suffering similar situations. Hopefully, they can prevent it from happening by having a knowledgeable doctor and following these tips.

[@sharon8121]

@@LevelheadedMind It does get better.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Hi Sharon, I wanted to make sure you don't miss our giveaway this Friday. Post on comment to our post in the community tab to enter the drawing for $50 gift card to spend at psychlifeteeco.com/ I want to make sure my long term subscribers see this and get a shot at it, Good luck!

[@LCCS886]

I’ve been on klonopin for over 22 years. I really want to get off them. I need help. Thank you

[@robertfenyk3132]

From personal experience over a 20 year period, One. It needs to be done slowly depending on the dose the patient was up to . 2. Always switch over to Diazepam or Librium. Diazepam is best because 10 mg equals 1 mg of Klonopin or Ativan and maybe the rest of the popular benzos… Anyway, during the taper, the patient stays on up to a month for every milligram of 10 , nine, eight, etc. *The half-life of diazepam is 72 hours… that figures into the equation as well ** my example is easy to find all over the Internet… And I imagine that I am not the first person to explain it in this thread

[@LevelheadedMind]

Thank you for your helpful comment.

[@lifeofavai1848]

I am taking sedoxil(mexazolom )0.5 mg I will stop after 10 days will it be problem for me ?

[@strider1237]

Lorazepam 4mg for 9 years here. Doctor switched me to 2mg of Klonopin/Clonazepam 9 months ago and I started tapering this month. Can't even describe the symptoms. It's like my whole body and mind are attacking me. I've gone through heavy withdrawal before from opiates and this is easily 100 times worse imo...And it's just the beginning. At times I just want to jump off completely but know that the side effects would be devastating. No one should have to go through this. No one should be put on high doses like I was. But I guess it is my fault as well for not educating myself on the medications I was beginning to take back in 2013.

[@srtdoff01]

I'm so sorry for what you're going through. I am going through a similar situation and cannot even believe how demonic the withdrawal and side effects of tapering are. It is a scary experience that I wouldn't wish on anyone. You are not alone. WE are not alone. Somehow, it's going to be ok.

[@LevelheadedMind]

I am sorry to hear you are struggling. You may find support at benzo buddies. The bright side is that you getting off these medications which cause neurological damage for many people. It does get better with time so hang in there.

[@ambrusin4889]

Only thing that is sad is, that, for many of us, it is not our own choice to quit, and doctors are now all over in the western world just cutting people off of them suddenly, without any warning. This is quite horrible, i had a heart attack for them doing so, so be careful everyone when you are quitting them, take your time, it can take years to get off of them, and it is ok.

[@missionimpossible143]

I stopped clonazepam 3days back after 3 years of use I'm not feeling well now 😢 I'm 28y old I think I gonna die 😢

[@missionimpossible143]

Sry for my bad English 🙏

[@alexmajax]

@@missionimpossible143 Be patient, it's worth it.

[@LeonNikkidude]

I only take 10 mg. Zolpedam for sleep.I am also Hyperthyroid and on. Beta blockers

[@sandywhat2429]

I was on benzos for 40 years. I was on 3 of them actually. Nobody - no dr knew how to wean me off of these alive. I got severely injured. Most doctors do not know how to wean patients off of them. I was in medical crisis nonstop. I was calling ambulances, nobody believed what was happening to me. I almost died several times, I almost s----cided several times.. This is a dangerous process. Then there is protracted withdrawal. I unfortunately got permanently injured. I was injured in many ways. Many of us are traumatized even years later. However being on them longterm really were harming me and drs couldn't recognize that either. I was not on high doses. I'm glad I'm off them now a few years, I'm very sick and injured, severe nerve damage, but I'm glad I'm off of them.

[@junanneownbey623]

Thank you so much for this video! I’ve been on 4mg of klonopin for over 20 years. It truly doesn’t help anymore. I will bring this information to my Psychiatrist!

[@Alabanzas159]

"I took a break for two days, and during that time, I experienced some tough moments; I felt afraid and struggled with anxiety and depression. I've been dealing with severe panic attacks since I was 25, and now at 59, it's still a challenge. Even though I'm still on medication, when I miss it for just two days, I start to feel unwell. I've begun to meditate and pray, focusing on God, and that brings me some relief. I'm learning to depend less on the medication and more on my faith in Jesus."

[@SueMarshallprice-iz2fg]

I'm getting ready for detox from klonopin after a 40 year habit + methadone! IDK if I will make it!

[@SueMarshallprice-iz2fg]

Needless to say I did get free from the methadone and it wasn't easy!!! Did I get off the klonopin well no! It's a 40yr habit and there's not one drug out here that can help! Not that I've found anyway!!!

[@simoningelund8168]

@@SueMarshallprice-iz2fg 40 years.. i think i wouldve stayed on

[@mikec2988]

I was on those years ago and decades of prescribed usage.I was shorted out a few times(not having enough) for the month. Did much research with the valiums to figure it out not to have excessive withdrawal due to a Doctor's mistakes.I think it was the hardest study I ever done and I was weaned off in a year.There is extreme withdrawal effects to this. DO NOT stop taking on your own .It is extremely dangerous.Always get the help to wean off this. You won't regret this decision.

[@michaelblasius4967]

Well, this confirms that I have dug myself quite a hole to get out of.

[@LevelheadedMind]

I hope you are able to get the help you need. 🙏

[@internetsurvivor]

how are you doing a year later?

[@chrisveli4459]

My thoughts exactly

[@devinramos6317]

OK but what about CBD oil? Would that help minimize discomfort during the withdrawal process?

[@kadyhazlett7553]

Watching this has helped me feel so much less scared of my planned alprazolam tapering. I take .75 mg daily and I accidentally stopped taking it a few months ago and experienced a very scary withdrawal. I have a great care team and support group that are empowering me to do this at my pace 👍

[@17.2Miles]

Hope you're doing good. Similar situation but Ativan. Absolute hell. The most difficult experience of my life.

[@sanchezmrs182]

@@17.2Miles how many milligrams were you taking in for how long I feel like I’m going through a rough time I was only taking 1 mg for five or six months and I did it rather quick taper to be honest a month and a half I have no appetite and I took 0.5 yesterday and I feel like today I’m having withdrawals.

[@josepharsanis20]

Any prescribed medication(s) that you want to stop please Google and ask the question about quitting cold turkey or tapering off. Once you know then you can also Google what alternative supplements may work as well as medications, you will see that you can get by with other things that don’t have Dangerous side effects.. last of all I ask that you Google any new things your going to take to see if they “interact” with your medications your presently taking, always Google for interaction to be on the safe side. Example your taking antipsychotics and you start smoking pot, you will-learn that pot lessens your antipsychotics and it can cause problems. Good luck, you can ask me anything, no fee

[@sidstovell2177]

.75 from 1.0 has given me all the tapering symptoms described by people who have done it. I was planning on .50. Maybe in another 6 months.

[@cherryrotella3714]

The essential thing is to taper very slowly! I have 👍

[@jolenereader1610]

I cannot sleep without a sleep aid. I was awake for seven day’s straight. I couldn’t even take naps. Ambien didn’t work very well. I have been using trazodone for 2 month’s which has allowed me 6-8 hour’s of sleep.

[@albertmarnell9976]

I made an assumption about your channel. I was wrong. I just want people to know that after decades of trauma, some people may need to be on them for life. Either way, life passes fast and we die. I'm almost 70. Why don't you state, "Some people may benefit from lifetime benzo use." ? You know about PTSD. It never goes away! Everything is addictive. Coffee, sugar, work...either way we die. I submit that benzos can save lives!

[@doodlebob2023]

benzos did save my life. been on them for 10 years daily. but i am going to taper off and see if i need them anymore. if i do still need them, i'll just go back on them.

[@albertmarnell9976]

Good for you! The rehab industry plus misinformation has vilified them. "If" someone wants to come off of them, it usually takes a long time and this is not done in a rehab. It is a very individual experience with a proper psychiatrist. Anyone that I know who is on them long term, needs them and it helps them function. I don't even believe that the benzos are the problem. I believe that people on them long term have an extreme sensitivity to things. That can't be cut out of a person. There are some people that lack feelings. Others have a different nature. @@doodlebob2023

[@DoreenWeed]

My prescribing physician retired and I have now been off klonopin for 6 weeks because no one will prescribe it! I'm on Medicaid and Medicare so I don't get to choose a provider that will help me. I've been on it for 30 years and I've never been this sick. I'm 61 years old and I'm not going to get through this. The hospital has refused to acknowledge that I'm actually experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms. I'm told that after 2 weeks the withdrawal is over.I feel like I'm in a nightmare and can't wake up. Dying in slow motion.

[@CBT5777]

I was forced into rehab by my doctor. I was not given the option to taper. How is one supposed to taper when we have no more prescription?

[@LevelheadedMind]

That's an awful situation to be in. If you live in the US you can see if any benzo cooperating providers are in your area and may be able to help. Here is the link for that www.benzoinfo.com/doctors/ You can also check these providers as they use a functional approach and would be open to helping someone with a taper www.psychiatryredefined.org/provider-directory/

[@CBT5777]

@@LevelheadedMind I already went to rehab. I'm 2 years clean. Rehab saved my life. One can't taper when they've lost total control over their body from these drugs.

[@carolynbreeding8329]

Dr's really don't know much about getting off these meds. I've had to do this on my own. I went off 1.5 mil zanax and grinded all my molars down. I had to have my teeth restored. A year later couldn't get a Dr's appointment to refill 1 MG that I was still taking. So I had to go cold turkey. After 2 months I'm dizzy and having bad symptoms now. Can't drive and almost stepped on my poor cat. 😔

[@jennytimelord9689]

My wife is just 23. Someone approached her by her doctor's office and warned this doc would get her hooked on pills she could never get off. She's trying but the doctor doesn't want to help, insists on just changing the pills again. At one point she was on ativan AND klonopine at the same time! The rehab center we spoke to said that's not safe and took down the doctor's name. So she was offered a bed in a rehab that promised to have her off in 7 days. It just seemed unsafe so we wanna do water tapering at home, until a better rehab facility opens up. Is that the right choice? We've been told if she tries to come off ativan it needs to be slow and she could seize and die...... but they say 7 days! I hope I made the right call asking her to try water tapering at home, 10% more each week. I'm so worried but I became physically ill at the thought of her locked away in rehab, no phone, 2 hours away, detoxing that fast! 1 week doesn't sound safe! I just don't know. I'm scared, but videos like these are so, so helpful. Thank you for this!

[@LevelheadedMind]

A medical detox is 1 to 2 weeks, the problem with this is that there's a high rate of post withdrawal syndrome, plus the detox itself is risky and hard on the liver and body- like a shock. It also depends on how long she was on the benzos, anything more than 6 months should be tapered slowly. However, even that is individualized. Any way you look at it, the water taper is the safest approach for sure and would be more tolerable.

[@GaryZahn-t9x]

Yes 7 days is way unsafe for her. Better to do it at home in a slower rate for sure.

[@hahaaxd4041]

Thank you for this video, I feel like I'm slowly getting there, especially the ''listen to your body'' part of the video is very helpful for me because when I tried to withdrawal in the past I went either too fast or not at all. Now i'm just gradually reducing and staying on the lower dose until my body gets adjusted to that, then repeat that process, after some sweats and a bit of insomnia and anxiety I can feel my brain is starting to become less foggy, probably because I was in tolerance withdrawal for a long time, which for me is more painful than slowly withdrawing.

[@FrenchieSensei]

Thank you for this very well made video, everything is explain in a simple yet very clear way. I've been on benzos for about 6 years, higher dosage was 200mg of oxazepam. I managed to lower down to 100mg a day by myself over the years but didn't felt like getting off, just wanted to have a clearer mind I guess. Now I'm really getting into it, more or less by myself again but I will ask my doctor to watch this video or at least get into this method. I'm know trying to stay on 50 to 75mg per day, but it seems better to have a fix dosage according to your explanations. Wonder if coping with valium is needed in the case of oxazepam or should I just stick to it and taper down until I'm off ? Thanks again, made me more confident about actually starting the healing process for good :)

[@LevelheadedMind]

If you've made it down to 75mg on your own without Valium, I believe you do not need to cross taper, just do a slow taper taking off 2mg to 5mg every 2 weeks. If you have trouble with interdosing withdrawal then you may want to consider cross taper. It does get harder when you get to those lower doses. Good luck in this and if you need help, consider my coaching services. www.levelheadedmind.com/contact

[@aronjohnson2553]

Antipsychotics withdrawal might be worse especially when you were prescribed them for sleep issues only. No psychotic issues.

[@regdarnerough5075]

Thank you. It is very hard to find a doctor that will allow this time-frame for withdrawal. Frustrating.

[@Pamela-sb5ev]

I am thankful that my doctor listens to me and works with my comfort level. Last night I made it through the whole night with no Ativan. I was on it for twelve years🙏🙏🙏

[@AngelaTurner-iy8jl]

My doctor kept trying to put them down my throat due to my trauma from a liver transplant somebody had to die but still lives through me ! It's really deep that she would do that I almost lost my purpose again but God let me know through my soul to come back ! I stop 6days ago I'm like overwhelmed

[@MK-pl4fr]

Does anyone here know rupture of tendons and ligaments due to muscle weakness induced by benzodiazepines? I’ve had many multiple injuries due to benzodiazepines.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Haven't heard of this with benzos, but statin drugs are notorious for this.

[@lauranelson1119]

How does Maudsley differ from Ashton in taper protocol?

[@LevelheadedMind]

Maudsley does a hyperbolic taper. Ashton does a linear one.

[@EricG7713]

I’ve been on 50mg of Zoloft and 1mg of Ativan a day for the past 10 years. I want to get off these meds so badly. I’m just afraid that I’ve been on them for so long I don’t remember how I’m supposed to feel being off them.

[@gloriakurkowski101]

I'm furious that these medications are so easily prescribed with NO warnings, information about the dependence and horrible side effects.

[@LevelheadedMind]

I agree! I hope with more awareness people will be more informed.

[@amyhenningsgard8618]

Me too! There are far too many people who are suffering. My close friend couldn’t take the post withdrawal syndrome anymore and was hopeless. Tragically, she chose to “end her suffering” and her family and friends are devastated. Please whoever is going through this right now, don’t give up!! You are loved, and you will get better in time. Be patient with yourself. 🌹

[@dustygatrell-ru7tg]

There warnings. There just not put out in the open.

[@brianmoran1968]

I am starting today! Thank you for helping me get ready. I fully on board.

[@lauramichele5512]

I hope you are doing okay! ❤ 2 months down!

[@christyb.2272]

I did a five year slow taper after 35 years on klonopin. I have been down to just drops in my liquid taper, and every single time my body just starts SCREAMING for the benzo by giving me my worst symptoms from my days of panic disorder. It doesn’t have anything to do with panic as I learned coping techniques for that, but for some symptoms there are no coping techniques. I feel that because I was on it for so long, my body thinks it absolutely needs it. I’m so discouraged because I can’t get off these ast five drops, which is a minuscule amount but I want to get OFF. I’m thinking my body may never let me off that last little bit. What to do?

[@LevelheadedMind]

Have you tried supplements like magnesium L-threonate, GABA, or L-thianine? Just check with your doctor to be sure there are no contraindications in taking any of these.

[@ihearditsdabomb]

Look up NAD+ IV therapy

[@thea1rachiel]

@@ihearditsdabombThat’s for opioid withdrawal, not benzos

[@frankyforearmsnycnh1]

Perfect video and advice..You know what you're talking about!

[@shirleyirwin794]

So if you have been taking 0.5 mg once daily for two years what is the taper dosage schedule ,you only have a high taper dosage in your video of 6 mg . Also what would you do if you are a person who has anxiety attacks off and on just from worrying

[@jaryee]

What can I do about the intrusive thoughts and depression?

[@LevelheadedMind]

First look for root causes, Vitamin deficiencies, hormone imbalances, thyroid issues, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, etc. Fix that and then if still present consider inositol but will need to titrate to large dose of 9-12G per day, this needs to be done under doctor or provider supervision. If you want to schedule a consult please use this link bit.ly/mhcoaching_initial

[@acampomft]

I didn't have the choice to get off them. The pharmacy ran out of them due to the telehealth start-ups over prescribing and now I'm completely out of my meds and have no way to taper down off anything. My psychiatrist gave me buspar but I highly doubt that's going to help me detox. I'm also bi polar and I'm scared this will trigger a manic episode.

[@LevelheadedMind]

Sorry to hear that! If you start having withdrawal symptoms it would be best to go to the hospital for treatment to avoid seizures.

[@victalfaithful2003]

Just go to the hospital when ever you can, how are you feeling now?

[@peterthepan369]

Does taking supplements like GABA or L-Theanine help during the process? If yes, should it be taken at a specific time of the process?

[@LevelheadedMind]

They can help for some people, however, many report reactions with supplements that activate GABA. Best thing is to get labs to look for nutritional deficiencies, correct those, then start a taper. If you need help with this process contact me for coaching and guidance.

[@supernatural2029]

Hi I am from Mexico,I have been taking clonazempa for about 16 years and I feel right now terrible, because confusion and also I can't speak very well, I am not withdrawal yet but I am working on it, they don't have a system like you have in the US, I am again with the psychiatric told me that it will be slow and I will recover my brain because I feel bad that I can't remember sometimes and sometimes I walk not very well,I am afraid of that I can't be normal again.

[@MattMendians]

I went to Cumberland Heights back in beginning of July. I was cut off of Xanax 1mg up to 3 times a day. Also adderall 15mg 3 times a day I have been prescribed about 10 years. This makes sense!

[@CE-jl1lv]

I went cold turkey taking 3mg a day due to being hospitalized. I felt awful for a few months. I did indeed have seizures but at least I was in the hospital. I’m an idiot and decided after a baby to go back on a few years later. Now I’m only on 1mg and I’m down to .5mg after 3 weeks. I’m going to stay here another month then go down. Worst decision I even made. I will say getting off lamictal which is a mood stabilizer has taken YEARS and the withdrawal is WORSE than klonopin for me. Which I think has made it easier. But a ton of green juices has helped me and yoga (even when I really don’t want to). I noticed the more in your head you get and the more you think about it prolongs the withdrawal.

[@JackSquat336]

I started Benzos about 22 years ago eventually going up to 3 mg of ativan daily for about 13 years. In 2018 I tapered down to .5 or 1 mg a day because GP's didn't want to prescribe it anymore and and referred me to a psychiatrist, I am now taking .5 mg twice daily of Klonopin to finally get myself off the Ativan. At this at this time I am starting to experience body aches, headaches and nausea. If anyone has any pointers please let me know how to make this easier. Thanks

[@patrickhyatt172]

I have been on one milligram of Ativan for 12 years, I've never gone up or down myself. My Doctor is in his Eighties, so I have been stockpiling for last two years. I currently have a years worth at least stocked up just in case. I personally will never go cold turkey, this is why I continue to stock up. Good luck all

[@angelaperry2070]

Do you take 1mg daily or just as needed?

[@MsDearne]

How do you get the excess to stockpile?

[@jenniferaudet3446]

@@MsDearne Probably like me. I told my doctor I want to taper and because he hasn't got a clue just said, he'd leave it to me. So I get my full prescription every month but I don't use it all. I have been tapering on my own because most doctors don't have any idea or are just heartless and don't care at all.

[@kevingronau4946]

Hello, I know you are trying to help. However, when you keep saying to talk with and have the support of your provider then you really have no idea about what doctors know about benzos. Because 90% of all doctors even physiatrists or mental hospital wards doctors, never mind GP doctors. Know nothing about benzos and most believe that the problems that we all say we have are not real. And the ones that do know about the problems with benzos have no idea of how to help. I could go on and on but you should never give advice to go to your provider for any kind of benzo help. They are most likely to cold turkey you or give you a very short withdrawal period. Most people also are worried that if they do say something that their medcation with be stopped or cut back. I have heard of these 100s of times........

[@MollyBrown-f9i]

Exactly! medical protocol is cut one quarter tablet every 2 weeks. They stick to protocol to protect themselves.

[@Michael-mx3cp]

Absolutely correct last doctor told me he could have me off in 72 hours after being on for over 40 years even told him it took me a year to go down 1 mg he wouldn’t listen wouldn’t even look at the Ashton manual don’t go to detox! Very dangerous they will get you off in 2 to 5 days using phenobarbital then you go home And be sick for years if you don’t die from seizures the real withdrawals, don’t begin until 30 60 days out

[@Donnouri1]

True had the same, 3 week withdrawal schedule. Well slipped back into normal Xanax dose really fast

[@beatricefrask5230]

Merci Madame! Thank you so much for sharing your expertise with kindness and clarity!

[@yosif8235]

Also, benzos, I always saw them as a stepping stone to help find the cure by the treatment. It's like a fast food job. It was never supposed to support your long term goals, it's enough to gain experience and get you a cheap vehicle to get you to another better job for the long term plan. (dream) So many other better options but they don't take effect for a while. Thankfully I never got addicted to them which is strange cause I get pure euphoria when I drink but that is because I love the confidence build up and not caring from drinking which later comes to find out I had ocd. The substance is not the problem just like weapons. The underlying issue in the mind is. Yes I know medication and substance is not the answer but it is not the culprit either.

[@LevelheadedMind]

This is a great perspective on the issue. Yes, benzos should only be used short term, however, when used as needed as you describe should not cause many of issues that I discussed.

[@KJT1567]

Thank you so much for your thorough yet concise explanation on how to safely withdraw from benzos. I haven’t started yet, I will when I get my next prescription filled.

[@jeffzest8393]

I do not want to discontinue use. Alprazolam has been very effective for me for over 20 years at 3-4 mg a day, and I do not have side effects or developed a tolerance, but my psychiatrist, who was head of psychiatry for my medical group, died and then my PCP continued the Rx, but he moved to another state, Now, in California, I cannot find another psychiatrist (or other doctor) willing to continue the Rx. Are they out there and just need to keep looking? Thanks. (If a person takes it very show, is it assured that the brain will heal itself, and you will not have problems once you have finished tapering off? Thanks!)

[@aquarius113]

do u have any dry eyes when taking it?

[@jeffzest8393]

@@aquarius113 I have dry eye, but not necessarily related to the alprazolam. I have atopic keratoconjunctivitus.

[@aquarius113]

@@jeffzest8393 i see..i was on ativan for 6mth pass now..alternate with other meds for sleep

[@jeffzest8393]

@@aquarius113 What are you taking for sleep? Are you tapering iff Ativan? I was prescribed Gabapentin for sleep and anxiety, but have yet to take. Hesitant to try new medications, but several studies have shown its success in aiding withdrawal from benzodiazepine. It also increases GABA, although by a different mechanism.

[@aquarius113]

@@jeffzest8393 yes for sleep..I've tried gaba too but it doesn't help..cause me bad headache

[@minnabinna123]

Also people who are taken off the benzodiazepines drastically and traumatically to say the least after being on very high dosages, usually relapse or other drugs, even street drugs because they go into panic mode at least I did. I was strong enough, not to turn to anything and have tried my best, but I still suffer if not more now than I have before because of the traumatic experience which has woken up my severe PTSD symptoms I could go on forever to explain that to me, but I think the professionals know and just don’t care

[@JOY_BOY_OP]

I couldn't sleep for three days and nights straight while going through benzo withdrawal. Doctor prescribed me Benzos for my anxiety. It was the biggest torture i have ever endured in my life. Also you can eat like crazy and sleep like a dead human. I looked fat as f**k while on this meds.

[@SP-hb6vv]

I don't know why your description made me laugh o hard,but I can relate 100. All I do is eat and sleep like a dead, fat human! I need off this crap!

[@nyotauhura5646]

Thank you for the positive information. What if the provider is absent often in your life and just prescribes the medicines?

[@LevelheadedMind]

Find another provider, that is just poor practice!