benzo free & healed 2.5 years later

[@jonesmd93]

"nobody believes you" suffering completely alone while so helpless was probably the worst part of it all.

[@ANT1714]

i hated being alone :(but remember this is all temporary.

[@jonesmd93]

thanks man, finished my taper last Sept. but still a lot of recovery to go. Everyday's a new chance to take a couple steps forward Thanks for the content you put up here btw, im sure you're helping a lot of people Peace & blessings

[@RobertLongM]

I feel permanently damaged... Can't sleep at all! Everyone tells me I'm not allowed to take anything, not even Benadryl. I tried CBD oil but that stuff's a joke. MJ is not legal yet, but I'm afraid of it in general cuz I never tried it. But apparently I wasn't afraid of Xanax. So much cranial pressure, , it's hard to know if this is withdrawal or have a problem

[@RobertLongM]

@@ANT1714 so hard to believe anyone when in the pit of it...

[@tristanrich2365]

Robert Long That’s nonsense. You can absolutely try taking naturally occurring supplements like melatonin. It’s a horomone that our bodies are supposed to make to regulate sleep cycles. Melatonin production is diminished in withdrawal so supplementing it is 100% safe. No need to abstain from replacing natural hormones and minerals that can possibly provide some relief.

[@marinawitsky]

I watched this and almost cried cause you just described the last 4 years of my life... your an amazing guy

[@ANT1714]

just wait until your better,its crying from tears of joy:) cause life is like re-built again,its soooo amazing.

[@garysimone4977]

Marina Jones true

[@linalovesgoodmusic]

This video has helped a lot. Keep making videos, you are helping more people than you probably think. You really know what you're saying, you've been through it and you've healed. That's so awesome and I'm happy for you!

[@ANT1714]

thank you,means alot....its worth it when your healed. as long as you keep going you get so much better then those withdraw days.

[@jenniferr5934]

Thank you. I'm tapering now. I hate how bad my heart races. The dizzy spells. Did you have that. I'm going to watch all your videos. Thank you so much. This is so scary. I was only prescribed them for a few months. I'm so mad at my doctor. I was never warned that withdrawaling from these meds were so horrible and take over your life. Thank you again so very much.❤😥

[@ANT1714]

Jennifer Roorda ya I had all that. It's part of the process,all that heart raceing and stuff is gona go away.

[@mamas3cubs]

Jennifer R been on Benzo's over 30+ years, 2nd attempt to get off, the best to you, keep moving forward.... this is absolutely true info.

[@goddessvibes08]

How much was your dose?

[@Briangaregnani]

53 Days sober today cold turkey from 10 MG's of Xanax daily for years. Still a long way to go but the progress is happening. Exercise helps if you can do it. This is the hardest thing I've ever done. Pure hell. It's better to go through this withdrawal than to stay on them because eventually they stop working and you'll get suicidal. Trust me. Thank you for this video, it gives me hope. I want my life back. God bless you.

[@ANT1714]

Brian G I'm more then confident that you'll be back to the old you,and a much stronger version of yourself. Exercise does help,if you can tolerate it then I would do it.

[@1234marryjane]

Love God hows it going?

[@errorASMR]

I'm terrified to rush it...because of these stories

[@mr1_rocketship2luna31]

Love God how are you today I’m m in a similar situation did you taper

[@goddessvibes08]

What are your symptoms? How are you holding up

[@shermac8463]

Hi Ant, So kind and generous of you to produce this very encouraging video. It's the best and most precious gift, hope, that you can provide those of us who are still suffering. Someone shared this on Benzobuddies and your calm words helped a lot of people on the forum. Congratulations on your recovery Ant. :-))

[@ANT1714]

Sammy Anderson thank you:)

[@pineapplekid9219]

Awesome . 18 months off here . I faithfully would watch all you're videos going thru this hell . Lots of changes over the months . You're a awesome voice for others looking for hope .

[@ANT1714]

Lorne Breasure thank you,things will get better,I know it don't feel like it but it will.

[@dequitalp28]

Thank you for sharing. I have a love one going through this. Your video has helped me better understand and support them even more. Thank you!!!!!!

[@linda050509]

Congrats Anthony and thank you for all your inspiring videos. I'd love to see your 1st video in comparison to how healthy, calm, peaceful to how you look here. You are a blessing.

[@ANT1714]

linda swartzen I know how to make KZbin videos again so I'll be makeing more.

[@nitzaperez7349]

ANT1714 !iam so happy for you, you said you are going away for vacation they only thing, I want to give you a advice don't drink alcohol cause they can be a chance it can cause you some withdrawal to come back so please stay away from it. Now as for me I been on xanax for around 5 to 6 year 1mg three time a day, some time I might take a extra one I want to wean off of this xanax iam now 53 years old I hear it harder on older person, but I need to do this I hate taking it I want my brain back, I keep putting it off because iam scare of the withdrawal but I must have Faith in Almighty God Throw His Son Jesus that he going to help me Amen. God Bless You for the hope you gave us.

[@anthonysopran4342]

Nitza Perez 4 Mgs is a lot.Taper 1/2 MG every week starting Now..Just STOP.

[@lauriina85]

@@nitzaperez7349 Hi, your message is old but did you ever feel your brain doesn't function normally and can't understand that people can do normal things and can't understand a simple thing and become overwhelmed of any normal things? And fear of everything. Did you feel depersonalization and derealisation and disconnected from people and enviroment and loved ones? Did you have horror waking ups like you feel you die in that second and can't take one day anymore like this? I was prescriped a big amount of benzo and no warnings after trauma. Two tapers went badly wrong and now with Ashton manual and good doctor. I fear I have permanent brain damage but my doctor says when I'm long enough off of this drug my brain lock will go away. Before this benzo hell I was living a healthy active social life. I loved to excersise and now i can't. Thank you so much if you can answer and give some hope if you had any problems with brain function and similar things. Hope you are well. All the best.

[@scottk6383]

Thankyou man! I'm 1 year clean now. I still have some strange symptoms, but I'm doing so much better. Thank god. Peace and love to all.

[@ANT1714]

Scott Kee it's just gona keep getting better and better keep up the fight.

[@scottk6383]

Working on month 14 now, doing good, still the symptoms can suck, it does where on my patience. But looking back man I can honestly tell you I lost everything, I saw a doctor for stress and anxiety, he decided zanax was the right thing to do, it worked well for a while, the dose was upped and when he couldn't up it anymore we added klonopin, and when I couldn't sleep we added seroquel, on top of that I had developed hella drinking problem, I started to get burning pain in my legs, the same doctor added oxycodone. I took that and ran with it, at the end I was taking 12 30 mlgm a day, 6 zanax a day 6 klonopin, my wife had the courage to call for help. I went to detox, and treatment, and 2 months of sober living, I went home. Had sold my home, 2nd home , my business gone, all my toys, cars etc!!! Was in a new home different town, no job full blown withdrawal, No friends, I didn't know my kids, barely knew my wife of 30 years! I managed to get a job cashier at a grocery store, part time dead end. Been making the most of it.things are better. I love the way you said exercise daily, I get it. I'm at the gym7 days a week, without fail. That and music have helped me more than anything. So true about how you do get back to being you, I can feel that process literally taking place. That's hopeful bro! At 48 Anthony I got to tell you, I question god why this late in life.? But like my man Eminem says fuck it! Might as well make the most of it! That's what I'm doing! My wife has been with me all the way! Couldn't have done any of it without her! Thanks for the video! Be cool! Peace brother!🕉

[@vernmexico]

@@scottk6383 How are you today? I'm a cold turkey, 13 months off and the fear, terror, agoraphobia, depression, fatigue are deilitating... Lost so much..

[@vernmexico]

@MrGoodkat I'll be 14 months off soon I'm hoping 18 months will be better I can't hold a job for life of me.. Are you working? Looks like I'll have to live with my friends parents for next year lost so much, still losing.. I cry all the time..

[@vernmexico]

@MrGoodkat I'm suffering from so much fear and agoraphobia will this lift? Did you fight this? Thank you for your encouragement

[@manuelito2yasabes109]

Thanks for taking the time to share your experience.. It gives me hope that I too will heal

[@ANT1714]

Manuelito 2YaSabes you will. The hard journey will be worth it when your healed,keep up this fight.

[@lockieloxton5074]

thanks mate. i needed to hear this. 21 months off and doing better but still not right. waves still knocking me around

[@ANT1714]

Andrew Loxton it will get better. Better days are ahead.

[@jbgodsgirl5381]

Lockie Loxton how are you now??

[@NATIVEMARK100]

I know first hand all that you are saying been done that. Your video is spot on!!!!!it's been 5 maybe 6 years off now I was 6 mg Xanax FOR 5 YRS IT TOOK A 2 YEAR TAPER 2 MORE TO GET MY BRAINS BACK.You have made a great video and am sure many will be helped so best to you and thanks

[@poztpwned]

The agoraphobia I am going through is terrible, I won't respond to any phone calls or text messages from friends or tell them what is happening. My family is totally freaked and don't understand, EVERYTHING that you are describing is happening...so thank you for making this video, it makes me feel a lot better to know that this will get better.

[@tygreen8831]

How are you now?

[@willjones4199]

Dude I wasn’t able to respond to phone calls either, it’s very bizarre

[@willjones4199]

Hope your well man, we can beat this

[@nowandthennn]

Agoraphobia was probably my worst symptom . It will slowly go away as you get better . Try not to worry about what you can't do because that will make you feel worse .

[@sherryhartin2055]

@@nowandthennn , thank you.

[@bambi3338]

great video, thanks for sharing!! it really helps to know there is a light in the end of this.... nightmare! keep on being well!!

[@ANT1714]

there is light at the end of the tunnel:)

[@johnnybaby4036]

@@ANT1714 may I email you?

[@marysadnick7479]

I am sooooo grateful to have people like you to understand

[@cathyhalpin9783]

Great video. Well done . So honest thank you. I'm 39 months off 4 drugs I was on ( SSRI, Tricyclic AD, Z drug and xanax) for only 5 weeks. Was cold turkeyed off all 4. Bedbound. Finding the intensity and duration of this horrific. Keep making videos . They really help others.

[@ANT1714]

Cathy Halpin thank you and ya I'm gona. Ya took me about 5 years to heal up. But life is better then ever now,this lost time will be worth it.

[@maxwellbernstein9235]

You are so lucky you're young. I'm midlife and have lost everything with years of being poisoned and torment, now tapering. I will never get it back again. Everything is gone. I'd rather have a hurricane, tornado or house fire. That can be replaced. Time? Gone forever. Even for my children. Broken hearted.

[@jenniferr5934]

benzo awareness how are you feeling today? If you want to talk sometime? I understand what you are going through.

[@anthonysopran4342]

Maxwell Bernstein What about your family??Wife??Gone??Money and house?Hope u are doing well man

[@anthonysopran4342]

Jennifer R sure I wudnt mind just talking..Instagram Bobby Irish.Got off Oxys and Benzos after two major car accidents..7 years of Oxys and 4 Months of Xanax 2 MGS...

[@ZeldaZonk-zt8fr]

Merci pour ton récit, et la clarté de tes explications. I cold-turkeyed 5 weeks ago from Lexomil (bromazepan), not knowing what i was actually doing, not being aware of the potency of benzo, and today i find it hard to believe i made it successfully. Yes, it has been a journey through a particularily horrible hell, which i had not expected at all, but i did come out of it, and i still feel weak and frail, but i am off this shit. Gros bisous à tous, be brave, it is worth the pain and the suffering, it eventually does not last forever, be patient. 🌹🌹🌹

[@yulitka8796]

How are you doing and how long did you take it?

[@emenstravels7023]

All of us post-benzo people need to find a way to band together and stop this hell from happening to anyone else EVER! If you are going through this absolute hell please hang in there, it eventually gets better. You will find a way to become “normal” again. ✌️

[@johnmunoz1705]

Outstanding video man! Close to 30 months off clonazepam cold turkey and not healed unfortunately....so so delighted to hear you are completely healed.... You and everyone enduring and who have gone through this process are the strongest people physically and mentally....i would like to chat with you sometime when your available... God bless you and thanks to reaching out to others

[@costelramascanu7310]

great video! thank you for your story. I am slowly tapering from ativan, 0,50 mg per day now, i want to the next week to take only 0,25 mg per day. I take this shit benzo since August 2015, because i was diagnosed with anxiety and panic attacks. I know it's very hard to quit benzos, but i have hopes. You give me HOPE, God bless you!

[@ANT1714]

angel popescu remember taker slow. There's no rush to get off,you want to be in the best shape you can be in when you taper off completely,your brain will heal in time,I never thought it would end. The anxiety was all chemical.

[@williamyoung4733]

ANT1714 k

[@ted.the.human1]

Good stuff brotha It's Awsome your giving back after bieng healed . This video gives me hope in my recovery I'm about 11 months of klonopin . I think I'm looking at two years or more for healing at the rate I been going . I really enjoyed your video

[@ANT1714]

Ted thank you,ya 11 months off is still early in this process,you may turn a corner quicker then you think tho.

[@tygreen8831]

Ted are you healed?

[@Cheesygarlicccc]

How are you now?

[@ted.the.human1]

@@Cheesygarlicccc im healed now

[@Cheesygarlicccc]

@@ted.the.human1 how long did it take

[@sandyknapp375]

I can’t tell you how much this video was to me. I lost my son to suicide 4 years ago. I was put on benzos, and am off about 10 months and long way to go. I’m 73. This video gives me hope.

[@brittalinstrom537]

Im so sorry for your loss

[@margaretkerr5281]

Well done!!! Thank you for the update and I am so very happy for you!

[@ANT1714]

Margaret Kerr thank you

[@foxglove1268]

Thank you so much. I was having a panic attack and your video has completely calmed me down. I remember how I was before I took benzo's and now that I'm going through withdrawal I feel like a crazy person and don't recognize who I am. I'm now on a very healthy diet and exercising everyday. I'm only two weeks off Xanax (4 years use) so I still have all the symptoms you described but I'm feeling better. Like you said it's a VERY SLOW process - but everyday is another day till I'm myself again. Thank you for this.

[@Cheesygarlicccc]

How are you now?

[@foxglove1268]

@@Cheesygarlicccc Great :) It just takes time

[@leannie2513]

Inspiring vid dude , I’ve been on benzos , mainly Valium and Xanax from 2012 , I have ocd and really bad anxiety mostly social , so the diazepam and Xanax where a god send , because I felt I could live a normal life , Currently on 10mg of Valium a day and 2mg xanax , but want to be free of benzos someday , I would love to be able to have them and not take them daily as my anxiety is so bad I remember life before benzos and if I had benzos for emergencies it would have been great , Nowadays I wake up have coffee and 1.0 mg Xanax. Just to feel normal and prevent withdrawals I remember running out a few times and the withdrawal is hell Xanax being the worst , It’s good to see ppl becoming benzo free

[@RobertLongM]

You nailed it.. well discussed.. You should be on all talk shows.. I'm 1 year soon (3 CT attempts, 2 fast taper attempts) and cheated last month (month 10) with rescue dose 😩😖😠 cuz someone in. FB Benzo group convinced me... So 🤬 angry... What is with grocery stores!!!??? I still lose emotional connection to life and joy or fun... Can't live and I want a life and love life... But I'm damaged. Lost so much weight Can't sleep At All!

[@growingwithgrace316]

Don't look back, keep fighting forward!! Our brains are an amazing machine, we have an awesome power to heal it when we choose to!! Stay strong and many blessings to you.

[@RobertLongM]

@@growingwithgrace316 idk.... Today is brutal beyond...

[@lynnprice3734]

The most important thing is that you are 100% sure you are going to heaven when you die. This video will tell you how: What is Biblical Salvation?: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jHbKdoSrqc1_m6c The Plan of Salvation - Go to Heaven When You Die: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mp_Yl3-baKaqfNE

[@lynnprice3734]

My family has found a help in listening to the KJV Bible, either when we cannot sleep or are going through a difficult time. Especially the book of Psalms, which are the writings of David, as he went through extraordinarily difficult times in his life. Psalms: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bauoeY2FrZtpoJY John: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXXUgoxoprKArtk

[@anyapi987]

Its incredible how we simply cant fall asleep

[@EEMusicLIVE2]

Hey man. Glad you are doing better. My wife is dealing with this right now. She has been off benzos for 9 months and is still physically and mentally disabled. You are so right about the slowness of recovery. Signs of steady improvement can be seen, but it comes very slowly in very small amounts. I love my wife dearly and have had to learn to be unbelievably patient. I am her only link to the outside world because friends and family simply won't come around because they cannot accept my wife's condition. We have not seen or heard from our own daughter in 6 months. People keep saying that she needs "professional" help. And I say "do you mean the same professional hacks who caused this problem with their pills??! She will never take a psych med again for the rest of her life as long as I have any say in the matter. Thanks for giving us hope. Take care and keep doing what you are doing. We appreciate it.

[@francinemartinez-cruz3335]

EEMusicLIVE is she any better

[@angelabachmann3239]

6 years later. Doing better. I walked like a90 year old, fell for no reason , had problems swallowing, small motor skills fucked up . Now its better I still can’t drive due to over sensitivity and dizziness. Lost all friends and working on not being a hermit

[@azeminasuljic2947]

Thank you man, you help a lot of people with your videos

[@Rhonaroo]

WOW!!!!! Honest to God we have really heard so much of this before but honestly you are saying exactly and precisely what I went through. I'm 2.5 years off and you must be 4.5 years off by now. Just found your video. Was never really watching too many KZbin videos about benzo while I was going through withdrawal I was too sick but now I'm well-educated well-informed 2.5 years off and finding your video and oh my God every single thing you're saying from losing friends and family I have absolutely zero right now... I think my life has been erased in this process. Thanks for the video I can share with people maybe they can understand me a little bit better

[@Rhonaroo]

@FUBAR hang in there!!!! That is the best and only advice that I can pass along to all my fellow sufferers.... yes I am back to my normal self and in about a month it's going to be case closed on benzos never want to hear that word again in my entire life. Hang in there. All of those crushing terrifying moments will indeed pass

[@Rhonaroo]

@FUBAR I couldn't function at ALL during year 1 and year 2 but I'll be damned if I'm going to let this steal my joy anymore than it needs to

[@francinemartinez-cruz3335]

Rhona Page are you able to work shop feel functional can you work out be in the sun?

[@lauriina85]

@@Rhonaroo Hi, your message is old but did you ever feel your brain doesn't function normally and can't understand a simple thing and normal life? I have it bad and it is stopping me to function. I'm tapering trird time, now with Ashton manual after one rapid taper and one ct that went badly wrong. Was living a healthy active social life and now i'm alone mostly because I tell my hell all the time to my loved ones. I'm constant fight or flight state. I have very bad agoraphobia and depersonalization and derealisation and disconnected from people and enviroment and my loved ones. I was very active social confident person before I was prescriped a big amount benzo and no warnings after trauma. Hope you are well. Thank you if you can answer if you had any problems with brain function. It is my worst symptom. All the best.

[@yeshuahakasha4582]

Thank you for taking your time and giving hope to people! You're great.

[@crystalspiral1562]

Wow such an amazing healing video for so many people. Thanks for sharing you help so many. Great dialogue and explanations you give. The real health professionals are the healed people. :-)

[@ANT1714]

Crystal Spiral they really are tho!! I use to say that all the time when I was going thru this,the so-called mental health professionals care about money and getting free paid vacations by big pharma then they do you,it's ashame.

[@crystalspiral1562]

+ANT1714 Yes! They have no understanding about healing a patient just poisons and dollar signs. Time for change. Thanks for bringing change to the world.

[@trishwright986]

Crystal Spiral i agree! the real "health professionals" are we who've been thru it & come out the other side!

[@losalamoslycos9108]

Yes thanks for the hope you gives us, i am 9 months off, hard times, i keep going day by day, Alex

[@ANT1714]

losalamos lycos it will get better

[@yeshuahakasha4582]

How are you now @losalamos lycos?

[@nruhlin]

Great video man, probably my single favorite "thing" I've come across since starting this journey 9 months ago. Probably because it's relatable, and you've seemed to firmly placed the experience behind you. It's something that happened, that's it. The message you have that I'm getting, with the cool, casual confidence with which you communicate it, is well, confidence inspiring itself. Best of luck with whatever you've got cooking up after making your way through this. Hope you're living life without thinking too much about this crap, but all the same, more content would be appreciated if you've got the time.

[@ANT1714]

i couldn't believe how good life got after this hell. its seriously like a re-birth,and the feeling is incredible. and thank you,i appreciate your kind words.

[@Cheesygarlicccc]

How are you now?

[@justinjordan8447]

proud of you. going through the hell right now.

[@annomaly751]

Justin Jordan you making any progress getting off the benzodiazepines?

[@louisebam1466]

Now I understand why every person in my life left me alone. South Africans are on the stuff but I'm classified as a drug addict. Even my church threw me away.. God bless them.. 1 porson stayed. She is sick her self but she reached out to me. Thank you for the video. Would love to join your group. Blessings 🙏🕊️💕

[@jasonmichaellauner3139]

Tapered down off lorazepam after 4 years daily even on a small dose , been off for 3 weeks , still having bad withdrawals anxiety, panic, nausea , sleep problems..... seems different each day up and down constantly, but pushing forward, thanks for the videos

[@yeshuahakasha4582]

How are you doing now?

[@MaineLander]

After 21 years on Klonopin, I'm 1 week into my taper. I am TERRIFIED, however looking forward until this is all over with. I'll get there, thank you for the video! Wish me luck.

[@mikedorf245]

MaineLander would love a update how you are doing

[@michelebergman4336]

It’s Not evident you’ll make it through & you DONT want to LOSE EVERYTHING! Do the Liqiud Tapering ! It’s the LEAST AGGRESSIVE way to Taper & you can contact Your Pharmacy & Dr to Reauest that it be given to you in liquid form!

[@claremcgraw9048]

I hope you're doing better now

[@YoungChunds]

Most people stop making videos once they're healed. Thanks man, it's refreshing to hear about the other side.

[@Tracey..H]

When I first stopped I had no one!! No forums, drs, support nothing. Thank Jesus for the warriors like you!! Who carved the path... thanks

[@PiersPlowman]

shit! took me over 5 and a half years to consider myself "healed". Good talk, man!!!!

[@ANT1714]

Piers Plowman thank you

[@Snide01]

Piers Plowman was it worth it to you? I often wonder if it really is?

[@masonicilluminatispacejewf7378]

Piers Plowman I'm just rounding year four I'm 98%. This takes 3-5 years. Patience is the only thing you have.

[@Cryptogab94]

Happy for you man, I used to be a junky, I did almost everyerything available in the street, but nothing is like the benzo withdrawal. I have muscle spasm everywhere, I can't concentrate, I feel depressed, my life is a mess but I have hope. Thanks for the video. I taper very slowly.

[@ANT1714]

ya that benzo withdrawal tops the charts,but remember that this is chemical. everything is chemical,that anxiety that paranoia,that depression, that pain....ect...this will pass and life will get good.

[@Zoellenathalie]

thank you so much for this video!!! ❤

[@ANT1714]

welcome

[@guitarforfree]

I have been On 10 MG a day for over 25 years. My doc decided to cut me. I am down to 7 a day. I am going to keep going. After I get off this I will help Others. I can make It through anything.

[@Mssunshinesummer]

Thank you Anthony!!! Your amazing!

[@ANT1714]

Summer Schley thank you

[@ramgoofy]

Thanks man, I have NONE of the physical issues. Memory is gone and sexy drive is gone. I NEVER abused this hell of a drug... NEVER. 1mg per day. That’s what the Dr. ordered. 4 years of my life, just gone. Most my friends... gone... and NOBODY gets it. NOBODY. One I am been recommended Kava Kava & Kratom to try and ease out of this. I took Kava this am & no benzo. And I feel great... I am still in taper, but I feel like either one of these 2 are the answer. Your video definitely helps.. thank you!

[@a.c.9993]

Just a heads up, kava kava isn't supposed to be taken over 1 month bc it causes liver damage and kratom gives many ppl wd symptoms also. Just research them well. No supplements helped me unfortunately. All that helped me was time.

[@patriciamccaskill6472]

Well spoken and inspirational. Thank you.

[@Billythakid1221]

Great job man I’m 8 months off was on klonopin and Xanax for 12 years and anti depressents for 16 everytime I came off was worse not even sure how I got through it all been doing videos about my progress too great video!

[@marinawitsky]

40 months off still slowly healing. Thank you for this amazing video

[@ANT1714]

welcome,keep going....remember that you ARE healing. even tho it doesn't feel like it.

[@tygreen8831]

Marina how long was you on benzos total time?

[@jeffgalaska8269]

How are you doing TODAY?

[@melissasteinbeck7520]

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your story, I am in such mental anguish I want to die, listening to you gives me hope. I will hang on. Thank you and God Bless!!!!

[@ANT1714]

suicidial ideation can be bad,I'm sorry....just remember you'll never have to do this ever again ever,remember that.

[@DanCourtneyElkins]

I quit 2-3mg of xanax per night for a little over 8 months cold turkey in the beginning of January. I felt like I was dying for a week straight, then I immediately felt better for 3months. Felt like I had conquered it. About 2 weeks ago I got hit with protracted withdrawals. I had no clue withdrawal symptoms return, as I felt better than ever for 3 months. Now I feel like I did when I was withdrawing again but more mild. I just mainly feel like I'm losing my mind, I have no cognitive ability to focus and am very sensitive to stress with a little bit of insomnia. It's honestly crazy what these drugs do to people. I've had to take my first break from university due to not being able to focus what so ever. I am at rock bottom and severely depressed again, but I see light. And I will not give up! Everyone else needs to be aware and not quit cold turkey like I did. The protracted withdrawals may still occur for people that taper, but tapering is much less detrimental to your body and causes much less long term damage. When I quit I had so much hate toward xanax I couldn't push myself to ingest it again even though I welcomed death. It didn't make sense to me that taking that pill even in lower doses is worth it. But these protracted withdrawals have shown me wrong. I mainly wrote this to get things off my chest as I don't really have anyone to talk to since I started this poison. Good luck to everyone and just do not give up, it gets better.

[@emilycanter75]

How are you today ? Im 7.5 months off xanax myself..after 13 years on. Doing pretty good.

[@tygreen8831]

@@emilycanter75 how are you now?

[@emilycanter75]

@@tygreen8831 I'm still good man. I had a wave on Friday. Felt rough and had nerve pain and headache.. was better by Saturday morning . I'm not 100% but I'm able to cook , clean. Go shopping, visit with friends a bit.. head pressure , nerve pain, trouble sleeping and food sensitivity are my remaining issues. They're way easier to deal with now too. I'm 9.5 mths off.

[@tygreen8831]

@@emilycanter75 thanks for the response. Iam 6months out still suffering headpressure, derealization, dizziness, anxiety,shortness of breath,insomnia. I just want to get better.

[@emilycanter75]

@@tygreen8831 are you in the group Benzodiazepine recovery on Facebook ? It saved my life.

[@amg8497]

Opiate withdrawal is a lot more than nausea and throwing up ! ... it is hell on earth ... anxiety beyond anything I've ever experienced ... zero sleep for weeks even months ... sweating profusely ... then freezing cold ... restless "body" not just legs ... kicking and body spasms for days ... excruciating depression ... sneezing and runny nose constantly horrific diarrhea... and yes those symptoms might last anywhere from 7 days to 3 weeks ... then you can move into post acute withdrawal syndrome which can be even worse than the initial withdrawal and can last months to years depending on the length of time you have been using ... opiates change the brain in the same way that benzos do ... you have no dopamine it changes the way you feel pain ....I believe after 15 years of prescribed narcotics it will take me years to feel normal again ! ... and I also take benzos so it will be doubly brutal to bring my body back to its original state again ...

[@ANT1714]

yes opiate withdrawal can be bad,i got a friend that cold turkeyed 80 mgs methadone a day,she's been throwing up everyday for about 2 weeks straight. and bad dehydration,some people heal really fast from it. keep fighting.

[@francinemartinez-cruz3335]

angela gouldsborough are you better

[@ravimn4637]

Thank you so much my dear friend!♥

[@laxman9695]

Thank you very much for this video i have seen your other video's before and after watching this video i am already very hopeful about my future to be a drug free.This video is one of the must helpful video i have seen so far.Thank you very much once again.🙏

[@ANT1714]

rocky g̸r̸g̸ I'm glad it's helped you.

[@babydoll9356]

So happy for you!! 😄

[@ANT1714]

Sylvia Collins thank you

[@nybeachgirl]

ANT1714 Thank you for your videos. At first I didn't think they would help but they have and I have hope that'll I'll get better. It'll be 9 months for me in 5 days after ct off 5-6 mg's of xanax and klonopin. I do wish more people would understand what we're going through 😕

[@benzossrirecovery7909]

Wow! Thank you so much , I'm 16 months off benzo and ssri use which I used for about 10 years . I'm really struggling , please did you experience brain zaps , my head feels like it is damaged and it actually gets worse with intrusive thoughts . My husband is very supportive and I'm thankful for that but that doesn't still help me honestly , I'm just mentally exhausted . Benzobuddies forum is also a life saver , if I didn't find benzo buddies . I won't have had an idea about what I was going through . Thank you so much and please let me know if you experienced brain zaps .

[@Snide01]

Benzossri Recovery I'm 17 months off and have had over 30 day stretches of feeling fine but then it comes back a bit. I actually can't stand all the horror stories and negativity on that sight. I would stay away from there but that's just me

[@liamo54321]

Benzossri Recovery how ye feeling today

[@tygreen8831]

@@liamo54321 how are you doing?

[@liamo54321]

Ty green not good

[@annomaly751]

liamo54321 hope you’re doing better getting off benzo? The brain zaps are the worst. How you holding up?

[@larrywillis4148]

Glad you made it and thanks for the encouragement. The best video on this subject on KZbin! I'll get back to you in about two years for an update..........

[@yeshuahakasha4582]

How are you doing Larry?

[@mariaisabelgutierrez.9655]

Thank you for your valuable information. Keep up the good work . It is so informative that if you have anything else that can help from you or other people let’s us know I really appreciate all your info. Again thanks 🙏

[@1MNUTZ]

Nobody except those that went through it will understand take your time

[@aileenfulgens1909]

The Ashton Manual says the panic attacks only last 30 minutes...Why are mine, at 42 months off, lasting 4 to 10 hours a day for 4 weeks straight now. I came out of an 8 day window... woke to massive head pressure and weird stuff happening in my left eye...panicked and went to ER for a CT scan of brain and neck. All good. But I have not been normal since except a few mornings... it all changes soon as I eat - whether healthy or not.. oh god - trying to type this and the left side of my brain just exploded and my stomach's churning. I have NO stress except what's happening in my body. I've followed your videos and I thought for sure I was going to be healed (now stabbing pain in left calf) at 2.5 years just like you. It's almost a year later and I am worse than I was last winter. When is it going to get better?????

[@aileenfulgens1909]

By the way, I was given ativan for insomnia (20 to 40 mg per year) but developed anxiety and panic and was put on 9 other psych meds off and on. Off everything 42 months and alcohol 50 months.

[@Vps3689]

Thank you! I have been on xanax for almost 12 years up to 6-8mg a day prescribed- I was forced by a new primary Dr to go to an IOP program - in 18/20 months I got down to 2mg- I can't seem to move it at all- I have horrible muscle pain, headaches, ringing in the ears, panic attacks, depression, self isolation, I felt like I was walking in gum, extreme anger, insomnia, getling flus- I cant work everything over stimulants me . "These medications disable your brain"

[@ceciliaroybal6758]

I am going through the same thing. Everything you describe. Don't have any support. Everyone thinks IAM pretending . I have extreme anxiety and depression. How can I make people believe that IAM really going through something terrible. Help.

[@a.c.9993]

I went through the same thing. I had to take 5 months off work. When I finally went back everyone acted as if I had just decided to take a long vacation. Some of them wouldn't even talk to me. Unfortunately there isn't much you can do to get some ppl to come around. I had supportive family so that was good. The best support I found was here on KZbin though. Only those that go through it will really understand. I'm at 1 1/2 yrs off now. :) I had to accept that some "friends" I will never get back...but that's okay!! :)

[@Clonyxl8]

Absolutely inspiring video ! Great job Anthony .....your video put me back on the rails.....Thanks !!!!

[@becca4974]

I would love to hear if others have healed from benzo withdrawal while on other meds.... especially gabapentin

[@a.c.9993]

Do you still take gabapentin?

[@rhbruning]

Thank you for sharing. It helps to listens to others' stories live.

[@matthewrobinson2242]

Dude I’m a year out after a clonazepam cold Turkey by a Dr. After a years long prescription. All I feel is terror and fear. I’m losing everything. Please let me know I’ll be ok someday. The SI is so constant. Extreme insomnia, mornings are a nightmare. Worse than anything I can describe. I cant be a parent. I cant feel love. Life is a constant insane horror movie.

[@1MNUTZ]

I cold turkeyed lexapro 20mg over 3 years ago reinstated multiple times took klonopin, ativan, trazadone during "withdrawals" it took a long time to heal cuz i reinstated but i healed i'm not 100% my old self but i did heal a lot so just keep pushing through buddy i couldn't even talk and was bed ridden for a year

[@ashleychristie5023]

@matthewrobinson2242 How are you now? Hopefully better?

[@stevericanramos6928]

You're the man bro !!

[@ANT1714]

Steven Ramos haha call me brotha

[@joseomarpalacios7542]

thanks warrior!!

[@ANT1714]

JoseOmar Palacios welcome

[@michaelevans6184]

I was using Alprazolam for 6 months and I ended up on a daily dose of 8mg. My supply abruptly stopped so I was forced into cold turkey. I got all the symptoms, I thought I was gonna die! I never went to hospital or seen any doctors. It only took me about 10 days to completely recover and feel 100% normal again. Maybe im lucky or I wasn't on the Alprazolam long enough but I disagree that it can years to recover from a benzo dependence. I think it's down to how long uve been taking them for

[@francinemartinez-cruz3335]

Michael Evans you got lucky I used 6 weeks of .75 of Ativan it’s 5 months and I am struggling

[@claremcgraw9048]

The wds from these types of medications are extremely unpredictable. Some people get off easy after years of abuse, some people get screwed after a few weeks for months and months to years.

[@walkrespect1953]

15 months..difficulty talking tinnitus anxiety agoraphobia.. for vid..finally looked for videos of others exp. Feels impossible to take care of myself the house..Drs act like this cant happen if u take prescribed amt. Brain feels broken..memory shot

[@Waves353]

How are you now Sharon?

[@walkrespect1953]

Free since 2012..thank Jesus..

[@Waves353]

@@walkrespect1953 2012? How long until you could function and leave home feel human etc Wonderful news xx

[@walkrespect1953]

Inexact memory but after 1 year had to force myself outside..still hard but I've adapted

[@walkrespect1953]

​@@Waves353it does happen though..I feel much better

[@browngirl5905]

How are you doing now? Can you make a new video please. I hope your still getting better and better.

[@redpeach8416]

Thank you for this video! I am doing a taper now from being on valium 20mg a day for 7 years. According to the Ashton taper method, I'm reducing 2mg every 2 weeks until I get to 14mg, then I'll reduce by 1mg every two weeks, then stop at .50mg. Hearing how long you tapered makes me wonder if it's too fast now. I also worry about seizures. I've never had one but that really scares me! I have propranolol for when the anxiety kicks in hard core. Please let me know if you think my taper schedule is ok in your opinion. Thank you, and I wish you continued happiness with your benzo-free life. You rock 🤘

[@jayebirdjb7143]

Amber OMG!!! 20mg for 7years???? You must have an awesome protective system! Stay strong Amber!

[@ANT1714]

hey amber,many people decide to make it 2-4 weeks instead of 2 weeks. remember those are just guidelines in the ashton manual. and i believe ashton said if she can write the manual over again she would of put 2-4 weeks instead of 2 weeks,so when it goes to 1 week then make it 2 weeks...many people prefer slower cause it can minimize withdraw symptoms,but if you feel like that taper plan is good for you then stick with it. but if you hit a bump remember to keep the dosage stabalized. holding for a month for some people has helped and for some people it didn't.

[@ANT1714]

this will get better

[@lockieloxton5074]

Coming up to 2.5 years off and still struggling with chronic fatigue. Over this shit

[@picklerick814]

my doctor gave me lorazepam. took it once. for a few days only. and that was the only time i ever took it. the withdraw was the worst for literally weeks. everything was fear. ptsd style madness... and that was from such a short time of use.

[@Ds4u2]

I took clonazepam for 10 days, this was 8 months ago and I'm still in protracted withdrawal. Although I can function its no joke and I feel kinda miserable because I don't want to see my friends or family anymore..

[@Ds4u2]

@@Ilmsyou It went away, not sure how long it took. I took 100mg zoloft for 2 months this year, from march to may and had withdrawals. Was uncomfortable but they went away nicely.

[@Ilmsyou]

@@Ds4u2 thank you for responding. Hopefully I will be back to normal by 12 months. Glad your doing better

[@jayebirdjb7143]

Thank you for this video! I'm currently taking Gabba Source and Ancient Minerals Magnesium lotion. I've also heard Tryptophan helps too. Your helping so many people, THANKS FOR YOUR TIME AND SHARING YOUR EXPERIENCE WITH BENZODIAZEPINES!!! Many many years of benzodiazepines have taken their toll but your video gives me strength! You ROCK!!!

[@ANT1714]

thank you,magnesium lotion can help in this. this bad time in your life will pass,just keep going forward.

[@dllasota]

thank you Ant

[@scottk6383]

Hey Anthony. I'm 18 months out now. Getting better by the day, should I make a video. Trying to reach out to people still struggling.?

[@hiraymondduarte9176]

do you feel better in 18 months?

[@hiraymondduarte9176]

I'm going on a month n 15 daze

[@yeshuahakasha4582]

yes please make a video. How are you doing now?

[@hosannavangodhosannavoorde6959]

Im on 1.6

[@scottk6383]

Yeshuah Akasha it’s now a little over 4!years, I wish I had better news, just after I left that comment I changed jobs stress, I went straight into a second round it was almost like I had just started over, a Month later my trigeminal nerve was damaged I had this condition now pain facial and scalp and head, same year my nervous system I em ploded My immune system flat lined cortisone levels so high for so long, I now have copd emphysema, no cure, I have maybe 3 to 5 maybe. Yes I had to be put back on Ativan , I don’t much care anymore, I’m dying, so I wish u all the best , have a back up plan just in case the shit hits the fan, I didn’t, I panicked, have a back up plan, solid in case something traumatic happens to you. Good luck , much love to all , god bless you guys . I’ll be praying for you.

[@zuditaka]

Wonderful to see you survived, Ant, and that you came out safely on the other side. Thanks for telling your story to inspire us all. Glad you reclaimed and are enjoying your wonderful precious life! ;D

[@ANT1714]

zuditaka I was just about to messege you the other day!! How are you doing? It's been a long time since we talked. Life is so much better when your healed! You were right all along!!!! :) is anything new?

[@ANT1714]

zuditaka the other day was like the first time I opened up my labtop in years...lol. I was like wow! I can't believe I'm healed now even opening this computer. I thought the journey would never end.

[@zuditaka]

Hi Ant Am just living a happy creative life, every day, like I can see you are. You have lots of lovely colour in your cheeks now! lol So happy to see you looking happy, healthy and well. Putting all the pieces together, to rebuild and recreate one's life, is actually lots of fun! My life was ruined on benzos, and I could never see a day when I'd be off them, but here I am--36 years later. So it's possible to get all that garbage out of one's system; and you have achieved the same. You survived, and lived to talk about it, and can put it all behind you now. Congratulations for finding all the reserves of strength in yourself. Problem is, we lose sight of all that strength when we are hooked. You are right, though, that trash chemicals circulating in the brain do interfere with and muddle normal thought processes. We aren't back to normal until we get that shit flushed out of our system. And then the brain needs a little time to reorganise itself, afterwards. Glad your mind has clarity again. ;D

[@zuditaka]

Your happy news film was the best thing I've seen on KZbin in along time! ;D

[@ANT1714]

zuditaka it was one hell of a ride, a ride I wouldent wish upon my worst enemy. I'm glad your doing good, I remember just like yesterday i messaged you like tell me this ends? Lol....it seriously felt like it would never end,like ever! I'm going to start getting more active on here. Especially with KZbin.

[@davidoreilly1899]

1:39 Gives me so much hope. Thanks man! Going through Hell right now.

[@jennapierpont7813]

Thank you Anthony! I’m 13 mos out off klonopin. Kindled & rapid tapered. Floxed by levaquin for years bc I got utis every month in tolerance withdrawal from klonopin. I’m still a mess but starting g to see some healing. You give me hope! What group do you admin? I started one with Toya another warrior it’s a small group. I’ve stepped down as I’m too ill still. I’m glad I found your videos. Congratulations on being healed!!! That’s a beautiful thing! 🙏🏻

[@jennapierpont7813]

I had kidney stones I believe I got from years of klonopin use 11 years on benzos. I had to have lithotripsy shy& 2 other surgeries all in acute withdrawals before 7 mos off klonopin. I hD to stop driving 6 years ago bc I was seeing things havi g hallucinations & dementia I would forget how to use the stick shift & my thinking was so delayed I was endangering my girls & others so I had to stop driving. I had no explanation so I blamed everything on my rx pain Meds for a preexisting chronic illness that Valium was a treatment. It didn’t help so I tried Xanax, Ativan then klonopin. Been bedridden for years because of klonopin. Thank you for your videos they are awesome! You Do s great job expressing the hell you’ve suffered. You’re a true warrior. I’m suffering a horrid withdrawal. Very few symptoms I have NOT had & so much has set me back like surgeries although I’ve stayed away from MSG as much as possible, alcohol, caffeine etc. Thank you so much please keep doing videos I appreciate them! Take care! ✌️

[@captainhowdy4285]

Thank you for giving me hope. I've been contemplating suicide. I needed this. I needed you. Thank you. 😪

[@jenniferr5934]

Pete Doherty me too it's so hard

[@jenniferr5934]

What is your symptoms?

[@jenniferr5934]

Captain Howdy me too. What's your symptoms?

[@captainhowdy4285]

Jennifer R What AREN'T my symptoms is the question... Derealization, depersonalization, severe depression, suicidal thoughts, pounding heartbeat, anxiety, paranoia, agoraphobia headaches eye strain/pain itching sweating chills fatigue lethargy apathy acne outbreaks insomnia weight loss (10lbs so far, I have to force feed myself & force fluids) facial numbness sensitivity to light/sounds hand tremors/shaking flushing diarrhea nausea throwing up intrusive thoughts I can't think straight/simple words don't make sense visual & auditory hallucinations withdrawal-induced psychosis inability to feel emotions/feel "flat" akathisia tooth pain lower back pain earaches hair loss stomach pain anger/rage gas tics etc etc. However I was FORCED into an extremely rapid taper after being prescribed 30mgs of valium a day for 13 years. In just 55 days I'm down to 5mgs. I'm in a living hell. Hopefully your symptoms aren't as bad. I've been dealing with depression since I was 14, but there is no depression like benzo withdrawal depression. It makes what I felt before look like slight sadness. I hope you're not currently suicidal~it's a terrible horrible feeling.

[@jenniferr5934]

Captain Howdy mine are exactly the same physically and some mental. I was forced into a rapid taper down to 10mg. I'm scared how long this will last. I wish we could all go to an island and get better together. I have horrible insomnia i haven't slept more than 2 hrs a night in weeks if I'm lucky. I like KZbin, but it would be nice to meet people face to face. Do you have support? My family is good, but they don't have to be sick.

[@nowandthennn]

Do you know of any older people in their 50's and 60's that have healed completely from this ?

[@ANT1714]

yes i do,tons actually....and the majority moved on with there life. and so will you.

[@bobleglob162]

@@ANT1714 I'm 50. thank you.

[@jbgodsgirl5381]

Junebug how are you doing? Please say healed😊

[@nowandthennn]

Gods Girl I'm doing better . I have one symptom left that refuses to go . It gets better than worse again .

[@wendym2544]

@@nowandthennn hope you're doing better. Do you mind me asking how much you were taking and for how long? Thanks so much. And what's your last symptom that's holding on? I hope it's better now.

[@RobertLongM]

Can you do a video solely on the symptoms from start taper to off? As well as maybe a supplements that made you worse. And when did you start to see glimpse of feeling better... Like what month marker?

[@germainedenon311]

Thank you for making this video

[@depthsofyourmind6070]

Thank you so much for this video I am 9 months off(: I feel better than I did but I still have a long way to go. Did you have a lot of heart worries?

[@ANT1714]

tons!! i use to think i was gona have a heart attack,but thats just how withdraw is, 9 months off is still really early. i use to get bad palpitations to and skipped heart beats. they were scary,but there harmless.

[@depthsofyourmind6070]

Thank you so much for getting back to me😊 I have been have heart symptoms out the a$$ lol seriously skipped beats, palpatations, extra beats, fast heart rate average 70-100 everyday, fatigue, etc etc did you go see a doctor multiple times about heart stuff? I buy my doctor so much about my heart I'm only 25 though😥

[@lauriina85]

Did you feel your brain doesn't function normally and can't understand that people can do normal things and can't understand that people can live their lives normally and became overwhelmed of any normal things? I call it brain lock, my brain is shut down. Did you feel every day you are going insane? I'm tapering with Ashton manual and had 2 rapid/ct that went badly wrong. Was prescriped a big amount of benzo 2021 summer after trauma and no warnings. Had lived healthy active social life and now i'm alone mostly because I tell my hell all the time to my loved ones and feel like I'm in a different reality from other people. I was confident and grateful person. I also feel depersonalization and derealisation and disconnected from people and enviroment and my loved ones. Can't be with my partner, he is waiting. I love to exercise and now i can't. I fear even go outside home. I'm in constant fight or flight state and panic. I have good doctor. Did you have horror waking ups like you feel you die in that second and can't take one day anymore like this? And then feel you have to die. Thank you if you can answer. I'm exhausted and hopeless. Glad you survived. I miss my life and that I was active and social and loved life. Never have been even drunk. Thank you if you can answer.

[@guineapig585]

I think I may remember you from a benzo support group on Facebook. Congrats! I'm benzo free two years now.

[@yeshuahakasha4582]

Are you doing better?

[@dabhob333]

Hi ANT1714 - thank you for your video. It's such a huge help, my friend. Did you come off other anti depressants as well? Are you currently taking any meds? I'm now coming off Luvox and Gabapentin as well, after coming off of Librium 3 months ago. I'm struggling with head pressure, burning sensations, bloating, irritability. I'm gaining weight due to inactivity. I used to work out 5-6 days a week. I'm trying to stay in the game for my family - my kids need me. I haven't been able to work and family doesn't understand. So hard to keep fighting.

[@ANT1714]

i was just on benzos,and that sounds like all the symptoms. they will diminish in time,remember slow & stable tapering. you'll get better.

[@ANT1714]

and no I'm not on any meds

[@morningwithgracie7870]

@@ANT1714 anthony how about kindled and was polydrugged?

[@jasondekker6103]

I'm not having any physical withdrawals but my agoraphobia is through the roof

[@belinromero6577]

How are you feeling now ? I had agorophobia for 1 year awful

[@kingbee48185]

Very encouraging. A few questions. During your taper, did you try amino acid supplements? L-theamine at doses of 500-1000 mg are supposed to block the glutamate receptors, so is said to provide some relief when you have waves of anxiety attacks. Others are said to help repair and promote the synthesis of neurotransmitters. It is speculated that the brain is tricked into not making any new gaba neurotransmitters. as the benzo drugs enhance their effect by binding near gaba a receptors, releasing negatively charged chloride ions which I believe acts like a magnet is pulling gaba neurotransmitters across the synapse and flooding the gaba-a receptors with gaba, the calm, peaceful, bliss that gets many benzo users hooked. So to maintain homeostasis, the brain stops producing gaba. Those who go through prolonged or protracted withdrawal symptoms may benefit from various amino acid supplements that are said to promote neurotransmitter synthesis. Used in combination with acupuncture and exercise, these supplements are said to have a high success rate, along with a slow but gradual withdrawal. What are your thoughts on this holistic approach I have been researching? I have talked to 2 people that cold turkeyed with daily acupuncture alone, but these treatments can be costly. I had been taking 2 mg xanax per day for 10 years, ran out. PCP out of town. 5 days unplanned cold turkey. Very unpleasant to say the least. No sleep, anxious. The insomnia worries me the most. Can't work without sleep, can't live without work. I tapered down to 1mg , a 50% reduction, and after like 5 months of feeling tense, having trouble concentrating, sometimes missing my exits to and from work, etc. i adjusted. So my plan is to micro taper on Klonopin. 1 mg in 100 ccs of water, withdrawing 10ccs or mls in 2 months to be at .9mg. Then withdraw 20ml in 2 months and go down to .8, etc. As i get to the .5mg mark, i plan to increase the amino supplements if the withdrawals get bad. Already talked to an addiction psychiatrist who will treat me anonymously and have an expert acupuncture specialist. This is a war I plan to win but I cannot take months off work. That happens all else fails. Hell of a bind to be in.

[@lauriina85]

Hi, your video is old but I have watched it over and over again to have some faith. I try to ask again. You had to isolate for long time and you survived. I was prescriped a big amount of benzo 2021 after trauma and no warnings. I haven't ever been even drunk and had been living a healthy active social life and now i'm alone mostly because I tell my hell all the time to my loved ones and feel like I'm in a different reality from other people. Third time to try to get off of this drug, two times were too quick and went badly wrong. Now with Ashton manual and I have tapered from 60 mg of diazepam and klonopin total to 30 mg of diazepam in few months. I have at least 7-9 months to taper to zero. I loved to excersise and now i can't. I tried many weeks but my brain just shuts down and I feel awful when I see people. You said brain and body become disabled because of these drugs and I have so bad brain that I call it brain lock. I can't understand normal things and can't understand that people can do normal things and live their lives normally. I was very confident and social and this is awful. I fear everything. Even taking trash out is awful. I am isolated a lot because I tell my hell all the time to my loved ones and feel like I am in a different reality from other people and feel depersonalization and derealisation and disconnected from people and enviroment and my loved ones. I go to store with my mom and feel like I'm in my own hell totally different reality from other people. I have also heavy sleep medication because I didn't sleep barely at all for half year in spring so I have 200 mg of quetapine (before this benzo hell I slept with 25 mg) and 20 mg of temazepam wich I hate because it is benzo too. But my doctor says first diazepam then temazepam. I sleep coma sleep and wake up in total hell and death like I have no brain and feel like I die in that second and can't take one day anymore like this and want to die. You said also about the suicadal thoughts and depression and chemical anxiety and I fight against them all the time. I can't do barely anything. I have a beautiful home and I loved to excersise and be with my partner, now i can't even ase him. Only my mom when I have to get food. Did you feel your brain didn't work normally at all? And did you feel you feared everything normal? And did you have horror waking ups like you feel you die in that second and can't take one day anymore like this? I have finally a good doctor who read the Ashton manual and she says when I'm long enough off of this drug brain lock will go away. I fear I'm just in hell and gone crazy and have permanent brain damage. I'm glad you survived and would be very helpful if you could answer if you felt your brain just didn't work and you survived. I fear I'm the worst case. And have no power left but I want this drug off of me and have my good life back. Thank you so much.

[@tashisls7041]

I’m one month off and going cold turkey ,I’m still going to work and no one understands at work I can kind of keep my cool because it’s work and I have to be strong and remain professional but I’m going through a living nightmare. I am afraid of my friends , I try to work and get done and go home sometimes I will just sleep or tell my head to go to sleep butI have night terrors and nightmares. I get into constant fights with my significant other ,it’s horrible but it’s better than a month ago.

[@snake-ro4ib]

Is it been 3 month's for you

[@francinemartinez-cruz3335]

Tat Isls did you get any better Any physical stuff

[@inris2353]

i am really happy for you bro. i am taking them but still going through horrific withdrawal.. :(... i think the only way is to cold turkey it... i am completely not myself anymore..

[@neena0925]

Wow what an amazing video!! You explained things better than any doctor could!!! So happy for you!! Is there anyway I can talk to you about how I'm feeling? you said you had a lot of dizziness would love to talk to you. Thanks!

[@FraudulentFoe]

i think people underestimate the power of excercise and proper psychotherapy. thats not to say with the withdrawals arent horrific, but you can really mitigate how long this takes and how hard it hits you with a healthy lifestyle. dont forget how much of this is horrific rebound anxiety. the first week-couple months is no doubt chemical hell... but PAWS and protracted withdrawals should be treated similairly to GAD and panic disorders

[@cherbear6377]

congratulations!!!! I'm on 6mg a day. I'm 50...is there hope for me. I see me on this forever

[@ANT1714]

Cheryl Miller yes there's hope. Even people in there 60's have gotten well. So will you

[@Galaxie500IN]

Cheryl, I am 50 and on 8. I am terrified to go through it and honestly feel so weak in my nervous system I'm not sure I can. Twenty years ago if anyone had told me this was possible, I'd have never accepted this "help" for my disorder. Yes, it still does help. I can't lose people from this, already so many have begun to pass.

[@angelabachmann3239]

After being prescribed xanax for 16 years I am 2.3 years off of them. Right now all I have to show for it is a huband who's about to give up and no friends . The process to get better feels like it took everything. Thank you for letting me know it gets better. It just takes so damn long!

[@angelabachmann3239]

6 years I finally feel better. I lost all my friends I am working on try to drive again. 16 years up to 4 mg a day. I am alone 12hrs a day. I am grateful I have a husband,mother and son . Still suffering but better.

[@lauriina85]

​@@angelabachmann3239Hi, did you ever feel your brain doesn't function normally and can't understand a simple thing and normal life at all? I'm desperate. I had very rapid taper of oxazepam (prescriped) and started to say that I can't understand a simple thing and had finally crossover to valium 10 mg and it took my brain lock/shut down away for few weeks, I was my normal self, social, excercised a lot, being with my partner and loved ones but taper was too quick and went badly wrong. Brain lock came back. Since then one ct, one month, kindling to klonopin and nothing helped. Started to taper with Ashton manual 9 months ago and I'm at 8 mg of valium now. I'm homebound, can't function. Have constant panic and terror and bad agoraphobia and dr/dp. Thank you if you can answer and give some hope. I wish I could have done slow taper when I stabilized for few weeks. Good you are ok now.

[@kerribizzell6407]

Anyone experience seizures during your withdrawal.

[@tomchen8636]

Thank you so much for making this video, and still think about the people who are still in the struggle. So are you 2 1/2 years with no medication? Or 2 1/2 years from the time you started tapering off?