On Being Both A Patient Harmed By Prescribed Psychiatric Medication & A Medical Provider

#MedicatingNormal #Deprescribing #Healthcare
To watch the documentary, Medicating Normal, please visit medicatingnormal.com/watch
This panel is focused on the experiences of four medical providers who were also patients and were harmed by prescribed psychiatric medication.
Panelists:
Christy Huff, MD, is a cardiologist residing in the U.S. and director of Benzodiazepine Information Coalition, a nonprofit that educates about the adverse effects of prescribed benzodiazepines. Dr. Huff experienced benzodiazepine adverse effects and injury firsthand after three weeks of prescribed Xanax use for insomnia in 2015. Over a three-year period, she slowly tapered off benzodiazepines utilizing Valium and suffered disabling withdrawal symptoms for the entirety of her taper. Her personal experience led her to realize the serious risks of these drugs and the severity of the benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome, neither of which were emphasized during her medical training. Dr. Huff specifically advocates for better education of physicians regarding the adverse effects of benzodiazepines and how to safely taper patients off these drugs.
Dr Mark Horowitz is a training psychiatrist and researcher, who has a PhD from King’s College London on the neurobiology of depression and the action of antidepressants. He also, for many years, took the drugs he prescribed. When he tried to come off them he had a quick and sharp education into the world of withdrawal and the lack of knowledge in the medical field about this topic. Since then he has tried to bring more awareness to the topic of safe de-prescribing of psychotropic drugs through his academic work, including articles published on how to safely taper antidepressants and antipsychotics, and work with the Royal College of Psychiatrists in the UK on developing their guidance for patients stopping antidepressants. He is currently the clinical research fellow on the RADAR trial in London, looking at the effect of gradually tapering people with schizophrenia off their antipsychotics.
Dr Peter Gordon is Scottish and lives near Stirling. He retired from medicine in 2020 at the age of 51 years. He felt that he could no longer work as a Consultant psychiatrist given his concerns in relation to the consequences of over-medicalisation including prescribed harm. To help anxiety he was started on an SSRI antidepressant in the 1990s following the UK's 'Defeat Depression Campaign'. He has not been able to successfully withdraw from this prescribed medication and the harmful consequences of this drug have had a huge impact on his life. As an NHS doctor, Peter advocated for professional values and the importance of transparency. In addition to his medical degrees, Peter has a Masters degree in the Arts. Peter is married and his wife is a General Practitioner. Together they have two grown-up children.
Nicole Lamberson, PA is a physician assistant residing in the U.S. and a member of the outreach team for Medicating Normal-The Film. Nicole also serves on the Medical Advisory Board of Benzodiazepine Information Coalition and she co-founded The Withdrawal Project, a grassroots community effort of Inner Compass Initiative. She has also volunteered annually on World Benzodiazepine Awareness Day since its inception. She is also a member of the prescribed harm community, having been a patient herself after being prescribed Xanax in 2005 for "work stress." Misdiagnosed benzodiazepine tolerance withdrawal and adverse effects subsequently led to prescribed polypharmacy-including two benzodiazepines prescribed simultaneously, a Z-drug, an antidepressant, a stimulant, and an antipsychotic. A medically-recommended rapid "detox" in 2010 ultimately resulted in a severe and protracted withdrawal syndrome (neurotoxicity) that persists to date.

[@MedicatingNormal]

To watch Medicating Normal- the new award-winning documentary that tells the untold story of when profit-driven medicine meets human beings in distress, visit: www.medicatingnormal.com/watch

[@Tempo50]

To what Dr Horowitz said at the end: people who have gone through this have NO faith in the medical field. Myself included, and I have been a RN for 20+ years.

[@JacquiQ]

Same ! Ex RN, and I have NO faith at all left in them with regards to anything that is not acute or life threatening. I keep having to say No to repeated offers to have more drugs prescribed to me for this symptoms and that symp[tom. I refuse now to even go to the Dr unless I am dying. Sad long painful lesson to learn and an expensive one, expensive money wise, and energy and time wise . Even Pharmacists do not know abt drug side effects, and yet they are supposed ti be 'experts' .

[@Bassfully]

if they can only be moved by personally going thru this kinda shit we're right not to trust them one bit

[@GMHG777]

Why isn't Medicating Normal in wide release globally ??? This movie should be shown in every middle/high school around the globe is possible, and every single Dr in med school should have to watch this movie. It's criminal what is going on in the medical field with regard to these horrible drugs.

[@MedicatingNormal]

There is a process to releasing a film. No distributor will purchase the film unless you first fo film festivals, community screenings, and can show there's an audience that WANTS the film. We are working on it, every single day!

[@GMHG777]

@@MedicatingNormal ahh well the damn government should mandate this be seen in every school across the country, but since the Gov and FDA are in bed with Pharma and AMA and the Psychiatry lobbies that will never happen, You guys are doing great work, the long delayed black box warning was just a start, we need a massive class action lawsuit like the Purdue Pharma opiate one to get the attn of every Dr and psychiatrist and med school across the globe, these drugs are life destroyers in most cases, they surely destroyed mine !!!

[@mariekejansen7658]

First thank you for standing up for us , there’s so much harm from comming of psych. drugs . It’s much bigger then what’s coming out ! Over the whole world . The dead people can not speak anymore so let we speak up until through come out ! we need change 🙏

[@belove9]

I have been praying for the evils of psych meds to be exposed and discontinued immediately. The horror stories shared by these brave souls is my story as well. I truly believe that it is by the grace of God that I survived psychiatry. God bless you guys for exposing the truth about the dangers of pharmakeia. Much love and light to ALL!!!

[@estelled389]

We are alive these mongrals won't take us . Stay strong 💪God bless and you are not alone

[@jbs9012]

If it were not for my reliance on the Great Physician, I do not know if I would make it. It is infuriating. Trusting that one day peace and healing will have the last word.

[@theangriestoftabbies]

The criminal pharmaceutical cartel wants to create lifelong customers via poisoning disguised as medicine.

[@user-py2nz4qx8f]

God bless you and so glad that you survived this. My late veteran spouse went through frightful ordeals with the meds he was given and he was pressured to take them at risk of losing his pension if he did not comply. So unfair.

[@judybooth110]

I thank God I have been prescription drug free for 32 years even though I have been oppositionally challenged. So thankful to hear Medical people speaking up as well as people who are have successful gotten off of drugs.

[@jlroussin]

I just got off of Lexapro after a five-year taper. I think what we have here with these medical doctors who are offended at us talking about the harm that their drugs have caused us is a type of systemic narcissism. It’s outrageous that patients whose lives have been destroyed by these drugs have to worry about offending the egos of doctors who prescribe them.

[@xy-qy2yg]

Oh for sure, the gaslighting is INSANE. The only doctor recognizing everything that happened to me is a palliative care doctor.

[@betsyeberle8116]

Amen!!

[@Jahfriend]

Great comment its disgusting and gas lighting and narcissism about sums it up

[@margieaustman]

There’s Dr Josef (KZbin) who interviews people who have suffered by taking these drugs.

[@JacquiQ]

Absolutely correct

[@thefuzzfactor2989]

What a brave man willing to be open to ridicule but putting the truth first and caring about the patient's best interests! God bless you Peter!

[@tiemanspace7679]

Our fight is way deeper than the dangers of psychiatric drugs. It also involves their power in the court system. And much more.

[@Jen.K]

I came off Lexapro too fast in 2011. What followed was a 10 year journey through hell. Today I'm medication free and mostly recovered, but not completely. If it wasn't for the help and support of online forums like Surviving Antidepressants, and benzo buddies, I probably wouldn't be alive today. Thank you for having the courage and integrity to speak out a medical professionals.

[@somethingimportantwillbean7573]

What symptoms do you still have ? What symptoms healed first ?

[@fareenrazzak5906]

@@somethingimportantwillbean7573 how did you get better

[@jakecarlo9950]

Also, I just want to say I appreciate the courage of folks who are open about the fact that they are still having to take these drugs, because the consequences of trying to stop are so severe and potentially deadly. I am trapped on the drugs I accepted years ago and, there’s a part of this movement really worth thinking about - those of us who may never have the chance to live a drug-free life and how painful that is .

[@judith7661]

TO THOSE EITHER OFF & SUFFERING, AS WELL AS THOSE STILL IN & SUFFERING (I'M NOT FULLY OFF YET). RESEARCH THE GUT MICROBIOME. OUR MENTAL HEALTH AS WELL AS OUR IMMUNITY LIVES THERE & A IS DEPENDDNT ON HOW VIGOROUS & DIVERSIFIED IT IS, WE CAN BE MUCH HEALTHIER THAN WE ARE IF WE ARE WILLING TO DO THE NECESSARY

[@dmahadeo]

I went cold turkey from 7 years of Valium because I didn't know better. I nearly died. It's been 3 and a half years now and I am only now (within the last year) improving and leaving behind the maddening insomnia. I feel so grateful. I am so happy now.

[@cherylwilliams4738]

Dexter how did you sleep what did you take? What were your symptoms from withdrawal ? If you have nausea vomiting diarrhea? I'm on 250 mg Seroquel.

[@dmahadeo]

@@cherylwilliams4738 I did not sleep (nothing that would count as sleep) for some weeks (more like months) well - probably one night I would get about 3 hours on one every three to four days. I felt like I was losing my mental grip on the world and that I wouldn't be able to come back. There were many times that I felt like committing suicide. But somehow, I have no idea how, I started to get moments of clarity (interspersed by sheer mental anguish) from October 2017 to February 2018. Then gradually (and inconsistently) it got a little bit better but went back to being my usual insomniac self which was the reason I ended up on benzos in the first place. So I decided to change things: cut out carbohydrate, combine CBT for insomnia with intense exercise in the sun, barebacked, etc. and I think the nutrition aspect was the key. Now I even have nights of 9 hours sleep consecutively. I started increasing my magnesium supplements and also recently started benfotiamine. Those are the only two supplements I take. I have cut out the tons of others such as 5HTP, etc. I have been on and off carnivore diet as well, combined with fasting for 24 to 48 hours once or twice a fortnight

[@cherylwilliams4738]

@@dmahadeo so Dexter you did no sleep aide during those times. I am so exhausted and I'm on 250 mg of Seroquel and can't sleep good I don't know if I should do a z drug like ambien or not or just as dangerous. I'm so scared I'm going to die.

[@dmahadeo]

@@cherylwilliams4738 you won't die if you taper, I believe, it can be risky if you go cold turkey like I did, but I didn't know better till I started and was determined to not go back. So I soldiered on. This was not the first time I fought mental illness (for the want of a better term) and my experience with 'the abyss' in the mid 90s and somehow coming out of it a much improved individual gave me hope. When I emerged from that previous experience so very long ago, I never thought that I would be confronted with this type of monster ever again, but c'est la vie. Anyway, to answer your question: no I took no sleep aids - I didn't want to exchange one addiction for another. I was actually fed up with it all and thought that living my life the way it was, was a fate worse than death. Now, fast forward 4 years, I still do take melatonin from time to time, it makes a difference now actually, considering it was so useless when I was addicted to benzos. Even so, I only do it when I mess up my circadian rhythm and, seeing I'm almost 60, thought sleep issues was normal at this stage, so I give myself an excuse. Consider a diet change when you get through it all. Drop the carbs to a minimum, eliminate grain, cut out all seed oils (canola, soya, corn, etc) and eat animal meat and fat if it is not against your belief system. That last piece is just a suggestion but it worked miracles for me.

[@inharmsway1965]

@@dmahadeo You have done an amazing job of taking back your life. The steps you have taken are exactly right and I hope others will pay close attention.

[@tiemanspace7679]

International Standards for offering psych drug withdrawal programs would be right for humanity.

[@estelled389]

Watching this brought me into tears ,it is wonderful to have these brave Doctors ( Ethical) and brave to stand up and tell the truth that people are being harmed. I look up to Dr Peter Breggin who has been exposing these criminals for decades. Dr Peter Breggin paved the way really for all you brave Doctors coming out. He had to fight on his own!!! Would be lovely to see you bring him on as a guest. God bless you we have to save the children it tares me to bits knowing they are giving these poisons to innocent little souls. God have mercy . They robbed many good years I'll never get back. Love from Australia 🇦🇺

[@user-py2nz4qx8f]

Breggin is great; I personally observed what he has spoken of in a veteran patient.

[@montesa9136]

Doctor shopping is not something someone who is Majorly Depressed & Anxious can do!

[@kevinrb9532]

Corruption of medicine by big pharma is a real problem. In the 1970s valium was the most prescribed drug in America. The manufacturer claimed it to be extremely safe and nonaddictive, which is similar to what Perdu pharma said about their "new" drug, Oxycontin, and we all know what that led to. I had a bad experience with Paroxetine, which I took very briefly. I took myself off of it after 2 weeks or it would have turned out very badly.

[@beautifulspirit2973]

I had a seizure this morning due to withdrawal of psych meds namely Diazepam. Thanks Pharmaceuticals for this gift of destroying my health. I feel beyond ill right now 😭

[@user-py2nz4qx8f]

It is rough; the pins and pams are Benzos; anyone who has not suffered this can have no idea of how rough it is. My own doc was horrified when he learned my veteran b.f. was on them... so some docs at least are aware but generally people including docs do not know OR the docs know there might be a problem and are going ahead anyway. The pharmacists should be more involved in prescribing; they are knowledgeable. In my town there is a special pharmacy not just the usual but very advanced and they will phone a doctor if they feel something is wrong with a prescription. But by law they have no power to refuse to give a certain med even when they object to it.

[@thedancingdivaofdaviestree2320]

I had a seizure too - they're scary as hell, my sympathy! I had no ill effects after, however, and the majority of my symptoms are long gone. I got my life back by tapering off after they disabled me for 20 years. Yes, we suffer the tortures of the damned, but I'm thrilled I Escaped from Benzo Oz and Busted out of Pharma Prison! I literally went from crawling to dancing by quitting, and from being mostly housebound and bedridden to writing, performing, exercising and socializing. Take heart, we DO heal. I experienced 167 out of 200 withdrawal effects and am pleased to say the vast majority are long gone. Best of luck, beautiful spirit - and hold tightly to that beautiful spirit. You WILL come out the other side!

[@sarahmkate84]

​@@thedancingdivaofdaviestree2320 How long did it take before you felt things turned a corner?

[@thedancingdivaofdaviestree2320]

@@sarahmkate84 The first time it took 6 months for me to make some spectacular gains - though there were still some nasty withdrawal effects. Alas, I was polydrugged and cold-turkeyed off benzos without my knowledge when in hospital - so I had to go through it all again, 10 times worse! Yet I'd say 6 years after I feel healed now, with almost no benzo withdrawal symptoms left. I still have to heal the MEFM I had all my life - but I've discovered that's neuroplastic. If I can beat benzo withdrawal - then this too is possible! I had to address the issues that got me prescribed them in the first place - insomnia and fibro pain, and learn new ways of coping. Dealing with trauma and repressed emotions with somatic work and Peter Levine's book helped hugely. Chi Gong helped with dp/dr and anhedonia. Shaking and dancing is a powerful way to release toxic energies from trauma and transform them into art. Finding your passions and joys is essential - you can create moments of heaven even in the hell of benzo withdrawal! I'm working on a play on the experience called "Escaping Benzo Oz." Best of luck!

[@satubeverley4985]

Very brave of you to make this video about the detrimental effects of antipsychotic medicines. As a psychologist I was trained to trust the biomedical treatment of mental illness until my daughter was diagnosed by severe mental illness after her first suicide attempt at the age of 18 years.

[@Peter-ty4jp]

Nicole is such a wonderful woman and she has contributed to much to the understanding of taking these meds. Like her perhaps, I once believed that medications would correct my mood, remove my anxiety and solve my emotional life difficulties. On balance they did more harm than any good, and also disempowered me to believe I had a brain chemistry disorder or disease, handing my life over to a doctor who did not know me at all, or monitor or review me properly. Luckily I was only on 1 drug at a time. To be on 3 or 4 must have been a complete nightmare. Thank goodness I survived it. A really horrible experience for me to be on these meds with really horrible side-effects and adverse reactions. If you are a person who feels they helped - I'm happy for you. Definitely didn't work for me. I'm all now about diet, exercise, environment and organic natural healing and holistic understanding in my life. We all find our own path.

[@brennanwalls26]

Thanks guys for all you do and your persistence! I hope the rest of the medical community see and follow your example and take note of what you’re saying. Currently trying my best to slowly taper at my own pace. So please continue spreading the word of negative experiences with pharmaceuticals, because they do exist.

[@montesa9136]

How do you plan on handling your underlying condition once you are off your meds?

[@brennanwalls26]

The techniques I’ve learned while trying to get off these psychotropic medications/drugs. Meditation, consciousness, and eliminating or facing stress head on. Learning coping skills, whatever it takes. It can be done.

[@montesa9136]

@@brennanwalls26 I've been off my meds for over a year now, but I'm not doing well at all. I think some people need to be medicated for life, & I'm sure I'm one of them. I have to remember, I was put on antidepressants for a Reason, & that Reason does not magically disappear just because I made a decision to wean off my meds We are all different, &.for some people Psych meds are a Godsend, even though they will likely cause long term damage.

[@estelled389]

They are all Beautiful souls and REAL DOCTORS that care about there patients. They have a heart and money has not corrupted them . They have had there life's ruined also .They are strong 💪and brave ,they are not spineless . I want to hug all of them for the work they are doing by spreading the information 🙏

[@bruji2001]

@@montesa9136 I am undecided and consequently praying while tapering. I hope you are doing okay🥺🙏

[@corinnagracepegasusspirit]

Torturous Terrorising Hell there aren’t even the right words to describe the living hell we are trying to survive!!!

[@kevk741]

45:25 Favorite piece of honesty from Nicole. “Because it was f*cking torture”. I’m over 3 years off Klonopin. I still wake up feeling shot out of a cannon with a fresh shotgun blast to my back. I can barely lift my arms as I pace around electrocuted. Half of my symptoms erupt tardive, months and months off the meds. Had I not understood my injury, I’d of thought I’d developed ALS + Parkinson’s + “insert worst thing ever”. “prescribedharm” is being gentle. I didn’t realize how I was getting hurt on a lower level until it became a full on movement disorder. The shit causes brain injury. If it was a food and 1%, or 1:100 people, would end up with memory loss and movement disorders and lives of chronic pain, they’d ban it from being served. This is more like 1: 10 people and we are still debating the idea? God damn people like their drugs.

[@user-py2nz4qx8f]

My own doctor jolted when I told him what my late beau was on; saying, That is a Benzodiazepine!!!

[@cindylefkowitz288]

These conversations make it easier for me to deal w/ all these effects, realizing I am not crazy or a hypochondriac, and that the symptoms will decrease over time, hopefully. Thank you so much for speaking out, and being that you are all medical professionals gives the whole forum more credence. Much appreciated!!

[@neurosciupdates5603]

It's always eye opening to hear these first-hand accounts.

[@Sketch1994]

Companies are quick to call these first-hand accounts "anecdotal evidence" which cannot be relied upon.

[@dmahadeo]

After being on Paxil, Prozac, Xanax, Valium, etc and attempting suicide more than just a couple times and nearly going crazy from Benzo withdrawal, plus being institutionalised; the turning point for me came after following a meat based diet. It sounds weird and unbelievable, but all I can say is that I am finally having 4 good nights' sleep per week after 12 years. I don't take any medication anymore. I am so upbeat now at 56. I am actually listening to this in the gym while doing research for my 14 year old daughter who is showing signs of depression /personality issues. All I can say for anyone who is going through as such problems is try reducing carbs and increasing animal fats such as free range beef, including marrow, brain, liver, spleen and other organs.

[@clausmehl8731]

@@Sketch1994 companies are bastards. Evil criminals

[@smooth_pursuit]

@@dmahadeo yes! Dr Georgia Ede is a proponent of meat-based diets for mental health and has many interviews here on KZbin explaining why 👍

[@dmahadeo]

You all are heroes! God bless you all. Keep up the fight.

[@H-youtube7]

Amen

[@darylbarrington1101]

Excellent discussion... thank you for sharing your stories and your wisdom. I'm coming to the end of over 30 years on psych meds.... I wonder what my life would've been had I not been disabled by these drugs. I'm still tapering... hoping for some kind of life eventually, but who knows.

[@andrewvillarreal9833]

18:58 This is the best most real interviews ever. I'm on Atavan for 13 years. And, my Dr cut me off for three days, and then I got back on, when I got more...and I'm now a nervous wreck! I'm constantly worried, constantly anxious. My Dr said he's taking me off them permanently in 1 year because of my age. (65). I am calling the nurse hotline...I truly don't know what they will say... but! They never will say there Drs are wrong. HELP!

[@karimaogden3875]

In the U.S, following the "Standard of Care" is more important than the Hippocratic Oath!

[@clausmehl8731]

What oath? Treatment guide rules all

[@noellerizzato3914]

Thank You all so much for your help! Following Laura Delano years ago helped me recognize that our Mum was suffering from the ‘antidepressant’ she had been given and was still taking , and support her becoming medication free ! Your work is precious!!!!

[@mindyjoyfullplay5340]

Do no harm. I wish that were the case.

[@thedancingdivaofdaviestree2320]

It's Do No Harm - to my bank balance, my colleagues, and Big Pharma!

[@candaceosullivan-sutherlan1533]

Thank you so much for sharing your stories. Ethical Brave Heros!

[@ancabostinariu6550]

Thank you for the honesty and courage.

[@cassanfamily2000]

Thank you all for your courage to speak out. I am new to the mental health profession as a therapist, and this insight is vital!

[@StJane]

You guys are the shoulders on which others will stand. Don't get mad at those who are not yet as far along as you are. Stay strong and keep up this most important message. Your the tip of this iceberg.😘🥰💕

[@kassi4837]

The fact is, we don’t even have the technology to track a good portion of the brain and neurological damage being done by these drugs. What can we offer damaged patients when it’s hard to even diagnose the damage ? This is an emergency and epidemic. We need to break the bias and pride of the medical field and fill these blind spots so we can offer closure and hopefully someday symptom relief. A problem doesn’t go away by ignoring it. It only gets bigger and more devastating.

[@escapingbenzoozhopehelphea523]

Are there even any long-term studies done on these medications? I could find none on benzodiazepines. So when doctors say, 'That doesn't happen" to our symptoms -they simply have NO idea what long-term harm these drugs do.

[@MsSilver41]

My son works with adolescents diagnosed with mental health , these kids are drugged to the max. He works with ones caught in the justice system because of the rebound effect of these poor excuses for treatment. I wonder how many kids were just suffering trauma and Instead of dealing with the trauma head on it was just easier for doctors to say pop this pill .

[@karenr411]

How are we to trust the medical community that still doesn't have a real clue what a safe taper looks like? 😢

[@stephaniebondy3416]

I’ve been watching and experiencing this for four years. I have seen talk/conversation increase, and the mainstream media is participating finally. Keep hope. ❤

[@MsSilver41]

A psychiatrist said there a potential for dialogue between psychiatrist and those harmed by psych meds , but the use of polemical language like prescribed harm, brain damage and torture can provoke defensiveness on the part of clinicians and render common ground illusive “ from my perspective that’s like saying “ I will prescribe drugs that screw with you’re mind and body but I will not be made to feel guilty for the part I play in the harm . so please keep your emotions in check, that’s what the drugs are supposed to do , perhaps we need to up your dose .

[@gladysma308]

Thank you for your coming out to share and educate us laymen. We are very lucky to know your first hand experience, so we can understand and sympathize with patients around us.

[@mgray3130]

Thank you Peter, you words say what I would want to say. The greatest respect is giving to these four! I would see any of these four over any Dr practicing, or guessing medicine.

[@theangriestoftabbies]

They’re still drinking the allopathic Kool aid though.

[@betsyeberle8116]

I agree~

[@betsyeberle8116]

You make sense of it Nicole Lambertson, by doing what 3 of you are doing: telling the truth and not trying to void responsibility of practitioners, regulators, pharmaceutical companies. Nothing will change until practitioners (& the rest) face the truth, realize the harm and make the changes needed to save lives and suffering. STOP PROTECTING the ‘harm doers’ and start helping the injured!!!

[@user-py2nz4qx8f]

You nailed it. The docs MUST stand up ... they have taken the Hippocratic Oath. The producers of the meds have not done so.

[@amylindberg123]

Very informative- grateful for your stories

[@gagutreality]

Feed the animals connect with other creatures have compassion for all things

[@Tempo50]

I WAS on 3 antidepressants, then on a medication for heartburn ( Wellbutrin ) two Blood pressure medications, a medication for restless legs. Off all meds except the occasional use of heartburn, and the medication for restless legs , now due to withdrawal.

[@NoName-pu5ls]

Bravo! Thank you! Sending love to all.

[@estelled389]

Aren't they all just SUPER AMAZING. BEAUTIFUL HUMAN BEINGS ❤

[@stevietalk1]

FYI .. I’ve been in .5mg of clonazepam for 35 yrs. I started tapering down to .25mg in 2021 .. I then took a 1 yr. Break .. am now doing last .25mg dose. I have never felt torture, or hell or any of what SO many describe. I have only ever been on this 1 med. & I am very practical … weaning/tapering SLOWLY .. I’m VERY grateful to have never felt what others are or have gone through… We need to hear/listen to what everyone is going through … I see it as gratitude from my side .. compassion for what I hear others going through… I also am not resentful for what I’ve gone through … I live in here & now

[@kewlmark72]

I was given antisycotics sseroquell for sleep I was hooked for years I have been getting off for the last 2 years I am oof meds now but lost ability to sleep and am losing my mind. I will not go back on any meds. I have a few benzos left I take for emergncy to help sleep.

[@stevietalk1]

My GP came from U.K. 9 yrs. ago .. he’s helped me by making me aware of exactly WHAT I’m on & why I should taper off.. he’s allowed me to lead & in fact I’m going it alone as are most of us .. I’m grateful to be given as long as I want/need to taper off the klonopan.

[@corinnagracepegasusspirit]

THANK YOU🙏🏼 for helping me to understand what is happening to me… Finally I have ‘some’ idea what the hell is going on.

[@optoelectrohbt8756]

it's a great great loss of this community that Dr Christy Huff passed away on March 5, 2024.

[@craftygirl17]

What did she pass away from, this is very sad.

[@mvann5]

BTW, really enjoyed this discussion. Thanks so much.

[@MedicatingNormal]

Thank you for watching! Make sure you subscribe to our channel!

[@jackiemcdonell1737]

I appreciate being able to read of others experiences. It's a valuable learning tool.

[@deannastar4514]

T H A N K 🫶 YOU Medicating Normal & Guests. Keep Speaking Out. I will Keep Sharing.

[@debrajanzen6661]

I like Peter's description of Hydra stigma. So true, so true.

[@sunset33533]

The book "30 Days to Reduce Depression" by Harper Daniels is recommended. Gives good daily mindfulness exercises. Worth a try.

[@gabby20]

I was addicted to 25 temazepam per day. It was prescribed to me in my younger years for a throat infection. I had no idea what it was. Tolerance went up to 25 a day. I went to detox and medically came off from Valium. Then I got addicted to Valium. I still am but can't get off it. A couple of times without having Valium I've ended up in ED for severe withdrawal where my heart just goes to 230 BPM and BP high. They get the crash cart and hook me up. But I want to get off Valium but don't know how to reduce it. When I do reduce I feel awful. I feel like I'm a difficult case. Well, I was told that I was a complex case.

[@MedicatingNormal]

Are you addicted to it (abuse it, can't control your use, seeking a high, etc) or are you physically dependent (your body has adapted to its chronic presence from as-prescribed use)? Have you read The Ashton Manual: benzoinfo.com/ashtonmanual

[@lisam2036]

I too went to so many specialists for my weird symptoms! Ugh. I started with low back pain in tolerance two years ago (among lots of other symptoms) and now two years later it's back during tapering/withdrawal, but I still feel the fear that there is something else going on. Struggling with whether to go back to get more diagnostics.

[@jackiemcdonell1737]

I can relate to everyone hear. I swear by these supplements. Methylated B- Complex, D-3 with K, Cod Liver Oil Capsules, Zinc, Niacinamide. Evening Primrose Oil is also great for woman, maybe men too but not sure. Love to all Humanity

[@notofthisworld5998]

I recall a certain psychiatry practice, a group, in houston Texas that had a zero benzo policy on new patients. If you were on benzos they would not see you. Period. I encountered this over 3 yrs ago, maybe even 5.

[@escapingbenzoozhopehelphea523]

I only go to doctors or clinics with a "No Benzos, No Opioids" policy. Ethical doctors, in other words. There aren't many of them, but they exist in Canada.

[@tylerwickett4592]

Thank you for this!

[@Neblinaization]

Thank you all so much! Very helpful and inspiring!!

[@gagutreality]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts

[@gagutreality]

Thank you for your courage

[@shan4145]

Thank you everyone here on the panel for you very very hard struggle work to let us see this invaluable experiences and information 💖🌷💎

[@jakecarlo9950]

Thank you so much for this work. I don’t know if I can express what it means to me. Thank you again.

[@lollorosso4323]

Thank you so much ❤

[@catherinelovell1275]

Thank you all so much for talking so honestly four people extremely sane although after what you’ve all been through I don’t know how!!! What is so totally INSANE is the MASSIVE INJUSTICE and YEARS of SHEAR HELL you’ve all had to endure thank you so much again don’t ever give up you probably will never realise how many people desperately need to know they aren’t alone….

[@montesa9136]

I was on antidepressants for 30 years & on Clonazepam, Seroquel, & Reqip for the last part of those 30 years. I've been off all meds now for about 4 years. I have developed Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Diverticulitis, Type 2 Diabetes, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Sleep Apnea, Metabolic Syndrome, Weight Gain, Restless Leg Syndrome, Cancer, Severe Depression, Anxiety, & Agoraphobia. I'm wondering if there is any way of knowing if my medical illnesses are linked to long term Psych Med use? Is there anyway of knowing?

[@av201]

My thought is which came first, the chicken or the egg? Likely 30 years on heavy psych meds contributed to many of your conditions. However, if I were in your place my focus would be on natural healing and trying to rebuild your brain and body rather than focusing on what caused these conditions.

[@montesa9136]

@@av201 I agree with you & Thanks for your reply. The reason I wanted to know if it was either Withdrawal or a Relapse is because; if it's Withdrawal I would want to stick it out. Whereas, if it's a Relapse I would think about going back on the meds

[@mitch5222]

​@@montesa9136 any update?

[@gagutreality]

Help others

[@gagutreality]

Love yourself

[@gagutreality]

Positive Affirmations

[@gladysma308]

1:20:45 Patrick Geddes, "by living we learn"

[@tdang9528]

Too many ads.. Please dont click the ads for your losts

[@shawnpawlowski1436]

Can I contact anyone from here? I had a Mirtazapine induced episode.

[@MedicatingNormal]

Hi, we are not currently collecting stories and do not offer one-on-one support. We recommend to find community in the online support groups. There is one for Mirtazapine on Facebook.

[@pudner698]

Dr Peter Gordon - you're seem like a really decent and brave man but in my opinion clinicians who take money from pharma companies and disregard evidence that they cause harm are bad people.

[@ruthie2222]

I would love all the naysayers of these drugs to all take them for six months, as an experiment if you like and then come off them, just to feel what it’s like. I bet over 50% would soon change their tune! 😢 Great video by the way. Thank you so much x

[@cherylwilliams4738]

Where can I get Dr Mark H. Antisycotic taper graph?

[@MedicatingNormal]

Perhaps here? markhorowitz.org/academic-paper/tapering-antipsychotic-treatment/

[@expert7383]

God has a very horrible place in-store for these people destroying lives with these neurotoxins . I'm scared for you

[@mitch5222]

God is with them. He is an evil.

[@myreddays]

Loving the irony. Myself having had my life destroyed by doctors, not that unpleasant to see them caught in their own trap. Excuse the cruelty.

[@cowboyjohnsontown]

I have empathy for many psych docs who were lied to by the pill manufacturers just like we were lied to. I know what you mean but regardless, I'm glad these docs are speaking out.

[@myreddays]

@@aleksadupuy Help me understand the relationship between your comment and mine

[@shan4145]

Thank you dr mark harrowitz for speaking the truth where u said about thinking the patients were crazy because credentials are higher and you respect your mentors conversation 👏👏👏my respect for you completely 🌷💖🇨🇦🙋🏻‍♀️ My ex doctor, I told her the venlafaxine isn’t working no more and she told me continue to take it’s better than nothing

[@christineward7526]

How to find the right person to assist you as you come off the meds.

[@mvann5]

I am wondering if it is advisable to get Covid 19 vac. while in withdrawal. Still quite symptomatic, or would take it for sure. Thinking any of the panelists, or Nicole, might have more info than my dr., who does not even get what my issue is. Thanks!

[@El-wc5hl]

Please do full research on the vac. before getting it. The very same thing you are seeing on this video ie. drugs that are being pushed on the patients with flawed short term studies, big pharma pushing and bribing Dr's to prescribe these drugs, insidious advertising/propaganda, complete lack of knowledge regarding mechanism of action etc. This is the paradigm under which the vaccines are being foisted upon an ignorant public. I hope that makes sense. Judy Mikowitz, Peter Breggin, Sherri Tenpenny and Joseph Mercola plusthe letter written by Geert Bossche should shed some light on the negative possibilities. Good luck with your journey.

[@janetdrews5039]

Please don’t take the vaccine,it is evil and you need to do your research on it. Dr Lorraine Day speaks about it.

[@dmahadeo]

I wouldn't. That is just my two cents

[@Anna-wr3uy]

If you are in withdrawal obviously you have been injured by drugs that were supposed to be safe and effective. So if you believe that pharmaceutical companies came up with vaccination that has not been even approved (because of emergency) yet they claim is safe and effective, you have to make that decision for yourself. Fool me once shame on you, fool me twice shame on me.

[@gagutreality]

Be good to yourselves forgive yourselves

[@mitch5222]

Thanks. But not to God

[@atanubiswas447]

I was diagnosed as OCD patient 10 years ago.I was probably 15 at that time.My doc prescribed PROZAC (initially 40mg) with CLONEZEPAM.Then gradually decreased to 20 mg.Overall it worked.With time I was able to manage my symptoms better.Then my doc had stopped medication for 2 years as I was doing gradually better combined with CBT.And after that the withdrawal symptoms kicked in ( panic, trouble in sleeping, increased anxiety etc) .Then doc started again with PROZAC 20.After 1 year he lowered the frequency of taking it( first- alternate day, then 2 pills in a week and lastly 1 pill in a week). Another 1 & half year passed and I became almost fully capable of not engaging in any compulsion. But recently I had some relapse of earlier symptoms and I am on PROZAC 20 again (daily) Is my doc guiding me right through it?

[@gagutreality]

Spend time in nature

[@jewelleryaddict]

After hearing all of this I wonder is there any REAL use for any of these drugs or should they all be banned.? I was given 3 maybe 4 kinds of antidepressants for over 30 years of having diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. I went in wanting help with severe pain and crushing fatigue and was given all these pills. I was not really depressed but wanted help and to be well and get well. Why would a doctor keep giving me antidepressants and nothing for pain or fatigue. It was crazy. They never helped what I needed help for. Been off all them for last 20:years no problems.

[@shan4145]

Wow i FUCKING love💖 this video! 😜

[@sanatatesiviata]

Detoxification The Art & Science Part One Detoxificarea (detoxifierea) este o Arta si Stiinta - partea intai - 1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/p5y7iXZniaaAsKc Detoxification The Art & Science Part Tow Detoxificarea (detoxifierea) este o Arta si Stiinta - partea 2-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGG0h4eVlK5sndU Detoxification The Art & Science Part Three Detoxifierea (detoxifierea) este o Arta si Stiinta - partea 3-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJ_LlZaubKusaLM Detoxification The Art & Science Part Four Detoxifierea (detoxifierea) este o Arta si Stiinta - partea 4-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/javYiY1rqpetr7M Detoxification The Art & Science Part Five Detoxifierea (detoxifierea) este o Arta si Stiinta - partea 5-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/rqHUc3WpgrCip7s A Talk into the Duality of Chemistry and Physics in Respect to Health (in terms of Health) - The Jocelyn Letter Discutie despre Dualitatea Chimiei si Fizicii in Respectul Sanatatii (in ce priveste Sanatatea) - Scrisoarea Jocelynei kzbin.info/www/bejne/mWqofnxpd9eSipI Who Is Dr Morse? Part 1 - One Cine este Dr. Morse - prima parte kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmjYiHp3nttrbtE Who Is Dr Morse? Part 2 - Two Cine este Dr. Morse - partea 2-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/onPJYpenp6uBnJo Who Is Dr Morse? Part 3 Cine este Dr. Morse - partea 3-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/n2W1kpKfmL-raZY Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 1 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 1 kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGbRkJWIorJ0a7M Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 2 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 2-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmHdapRso99sl6s Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 3 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 3-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/pam1d5h5m9x8f8k Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 4 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 4-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoe3nWqsgMaWapI Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 5 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 5-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGaUd4OGitFkrNk Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 6 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 6-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/nJC4n3ejmt5knLc Cancer - The Raw Truth Part 7 Cancerul - Adevarul Crud - Partea 7-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5jFgIp9g7hoi8U Killing With Chemotherapy With Robert Morse N.D. (Natruropathic Doctor) Part One Ucidere cu Chimioterapia, cu Dr. Robert Morse D.N. (Doctor Naturopat) partea intai kzbin.info/www/bejne/apqrpKJoaKZkarM Killing With Chemotherapy With Robert Morse N.D. (Natruropathic Doctor) Part Tow Ucidere cu Chimioterapia, cu Dr. Robert Morse D.N. (Doctor Naturopat) partea 2-a kzbin.info/www/bejne/eZaykH9-p6aihaM Radiation Exposure Expunerea la Radiatii kzbin.info/www/bejne/gqSzlWBopdeJd7s ----- Learn how to heal ALL conditions, "diseases", by reading Robert Morse's book: - The Detox Miracle Sourcebook: Raw Food and Herbs for Complete Cellular Regeneration - Robert Morse N.D. www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935826190/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_1?pf_rd_p=1278548962&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=189077233X&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0K28D2H33WRDHDWE65BP More information about dr. Robert Morse, Dr Morse's Naturophatic Clinic, contact data (web site, KZbin channel, etc.): - kzbin.info - DrMorsesHerbalHealthClub.com - twitter.com/RobertMorseND - Sanatate si Viata (Health and Life) usefull information: www.sanatatesiviata.ro/alimentatie-sanatoasa/128-doctor-robert-morse-dr-naturopat Doctor Robert Morse - Naturophatic Doctor: "Dr. Morse is world renowned for his work and success in all types of cancers. He specializes in brain and nerve regeneration. Dr. Morse is one of the world's greatest healers." - Dr. Bernard Jensen

[@snuppypuppy6693]

snuppy puppy says hi!

[@ashleypresley]

Explains the 6 week trial, because that's from regulators in other countries, not because it's actually beneficial.

[@jessicavegan]

Are the two guys at the bottom the same guy??? 😂

[@stevietalk1]

They both have glasses & accents (England & Scotland though ..) otherwise 2 totally different guys 🥴

[@donzouan9687]

How its possible to have withdrawl after 8 years of stopping?what sumptoms you still have

[@MedicatingNormal]

Withdrawal is the period when removing the drug. After a certain point, the word "withdrawal" is not really accurate. In some people, there is some persistent neurological damage that has occured. Some called it an acquired brain injury, some neuronal adaptation has not reversed, some can have neurotoxicity. No one really knows to be honest. We just know that for some, symptoms can persist a very long time.

[@Hitit123]

@@MedicatingNormal Yes it's a "Chemical Brain Injury" / "Injury" at that point.

[@donzouan9687]

@@MedicatingNormal ok so what symptoms are still remaining?

[@MedicatingNormal]

@@donzouan9687 Each person is different with what they are experiencing and I cannot speak for the panelists. It's also not helpful to compare because everyone is so unique and experiences so individual.

[@donzouan9687]

@@smilemor-phony5964 did you had derealization and burning skin and how long did it last?

[@michelebergman4336]

CHANGE NAME!!! What does MEDICATING NORMALMean???

[@sharonendler1467]

It is after the movie “ Medicating Normal” which followed the stories of a few people who were put on drugs for “ normal “ issues of life like grief …..

[@stevietalk1]

It means normal people are being medicated for no good reason or at least on meds. Not meant for them …

[@michelebergman4336]

@@stevietalk1 well that’s a confusing & it could be called “ medicating normal people”… but even that’s still bad name becuz it’s insinuating that that people who need meds are NOT “normal “!!! It’s a really bad name from PR POV!!! After all the work they did to make and promote the film, picking a GOOD NSME seems like it should have been a #1 priority!!! Someone BLEW IT!!!

[@barbararay8578]

What I'm hearing you say is that people dont heal, is that what you're saying?

[@MedicatingNormal]

Where did anyone say that?

[@barbararay8578]

@@MedicatingNormal It seems so many are about many years after they have stopped benzos that symptoms keep showing up. Perhaps I have misunderstood...I sure hope so! My prayer is that everyone completely heals.

[@dmahadeo]

Try carnivore nutrition - research Amber O'Hearn. It worked for me. No special supplements, just food.

[@dmahadeo]

Dr. Georgia Ede /Amber O'Hearn. Check their research /experiences. Get well; stay well everyone ❤️

[@MedicatingNormal]

@@dmahadeo Dr. Ede is in one of our other videos. She's great.

[@gagutreality]

Remember that you are a child of God and alive for a reason

[@mitch5222]

That is the thing. I dont want to know about my father God anything, nothing. He is watching and smile how some of us have to suffer. And pharma ppl having money and enjoying on yacht. God should be ashamed.

[@366317]

whıle hıs chıldren are sufferıng so hard he never dıd anythıng and the bıg pharma guys enjoy there rıches and luxury go take your god and dıe

[@helencheung2537]

@@mitch5222 God gave us free will. That's what makes us human. Far from watching and smiling, He watches and suffers because of what we do with it. Since you believe he exists, why not strike up a relationship with Him. He is always waiting for you.

[@Pamela-bj6qg]

YES, Abhorrent!!!!!!

[@bilygates2509]

My questions is why are educated Americans falling into this trap ???

[@montesa9136]

I still don't understand how all these people coming off Psychotropic medication manage their original underlying condition once they are off the drugs? To me, this is the most important thing to consider before one even considers weaning off. Why is this not talked about?

[@myreddays]

The main point is the drugs are not the solution. So coming off them is necessary. Then look for an approach that can truly help, doen't make you dependent and doesn't harm you in the long run. That's the point.

[@Eric-tj3tg]

@@smilemor-phony5964 Fair enough, and I'm glad you don't have any underlying psychiatric conditions. Rarely, except during the "Prozac productivity craze", do people seek psychiatric medicines without experiencing subjective, if not objective, disturbed mental health. But, for instance, Adderall seems to be a productivity drug for some. Meanwhile, when one's anxiety or depression is medicated, then discontinued, perhaps there is now so much confusion as to what's what (i.e., caused by meds, or anxiety from withdrawal, or the condition that originally brought one in to a doctor to begin with), that it's difficult. In the end, I believe that underlying much of the anxiety and depression is trauma. Now, we're talking long-term Psychotherapy. The USA isn't going to let that reality out of the bag, because it's an epidemic, and health insurers, are going to fight to not pay for therapy. All sickening. Unnerving video as a Clonazepam victim who has realized that the trauma beneath is inaccessible due to the drug. Didn't know of Complex Trauma when this began. SMH (voluntarily for the moment)!

[@cowboyjohnsontown]

There are many natural remedies for mental wellness. Safer supplements or plant medicines might be the most direct comparison. However, there's an emerging trauma-based method of treatment for mental health that seems much more efficient than a disease-based model which says "you need meds to treat your disease." Its a massive shift in thinking. I've found a lot of success with kundalini meditation, yoga, changing my diet, limiting stress, getting enough exercise, journaling, etc. Meds are often relied on too often and for too long.

[@MedicatingNormal]

Many 'original conditions' were situational. People are left on these meds for years and so, time and the environment, etc. change in all that time, and perhaps there isn't even anything left. For example, if you were prescribed for a divorce, you're clearly not having that same stress 5 years later, yet people are parked on the drugs that long.

[@dimitraamend8837]

Before drug we wanted to feel better. But if it makes your health worse and you get a lot of side effects, dealing with the main problem is nothing compared to the hell you had to go through. I started antidepressants 11 years ago for panic attacks. I experienced reverse reaction after years and trying new meds. Dealing with withdrawals and side effects from new ssri is another level and I was just done. I’m still anxious but it’s nothing compared to what was it on medication or coming off of Effexor. Never again. 😢

[@dm7232]

What symptoms? They all just say they went through hell, what does that mean? What are the symptoms 5 and 8 yrs later? Why can’t they just speak in plain language?

[@user-py2nz4qx8f]

I can tell you what some of them are as I witnessed it in the case of my late partner: Rapid Cycling bi-polarity uncontrollable mood swings that began exactly at sundown and went on all night; exhausting for him ... they began by being an hour apart and then were down to every four minutes. His doc and social worker ignored my calls for help; He hallucinated; could not control the over excitement; so exhausted from days of this that he became suicidal; ran naked on the railroad tracks until the police picked him up but each person may have different symptoms.

[@stevietalk1]

@@user-py2nz4qx8fthese are not tolerance/BIND symptoms… if one has rapid cycling bi-polar type symptoms .. this isn’t from benzodiazepines .. may be with antidepressant or psychotic drugs .. not benzos

[@yes55504]

Oh I guess you have to be a medical professional to qualify to talk about the dangers of these meds... Can't be a normal person 😂

[@MedicatingNormal]

There are plenty of "normal people" talking about it on our channel as well. Medical professionals are also people, btw. The whole point of having medical professionals who were also harmed by the medication talking about it here is bc the medical profession often denies this as a reality.

[@yes55504]

@Medicating Normal apparently you think that being a medical professional, that makes you better than everyone else? Thats what I gather from these videos

[@jcoop49]

I as Nichole describes,after being on Temazepam for 30+ years(now on Diazepam withdrawal plan) I had that many symptoms (and still do) I have lost count of the specialists I've seen via NHS trying to find out what was wrong with me,not one of them even suggested it was because of me being on Benzo',whatever symptom I get now,I dont go to the GP to see if it is something which may kill me off. I have for years been accused by Gps/Psychiatry records that I am neurotic or that I am a hyperchondriac (I know this as I obtained my medical records last year ,way back from 30+ yrs ago.) I was unable to work ,(Nurse) I loved my job ,then I had to fight to get sickness benefits,I was not believed by the system here in the UK though eventually after 3 yrs I was able to get benefits.My life ,I feel has been totally wasted,and my anger at this loss is undescribable what this drug has done to me.I spoke to someone I knew who was and recovering heroin addict who attend Narcotics Anonymous, so he suggested I attend meetings ,which I did for quite a few months,no-one there could understand my symptoms,they got their drugs illegally,mine were prescribed,they couldnt understand why I complained of constant symptoms and pain ,they didnt have these symptoms after withdrawing.I didnt seek out illegal or extra doses of Benzo's ,I stuck to prescribed amout by GP. I am learning so much from your videos and seminars.Wish I'd found out when I was first put on this evil drug.