Overcoming Protracted Withdrawal: Nicole Lamberson's Expert Insights & Strategies

[@aliciameeks]

Worst mistake I ever made was going to a psychiatrist for help with anxiety/depression. 20 years Ive been trying to get off the benzos. My life is a shell of what it was. 😭

[@lucianogoyenechea8704]

like me.. since 2002 with GAD, started clona in 2005... my life between 2002 and 2005 was heavenly compared with post-clona

[@JacquiQ]

yes ! they tell you "go see your Dr" ...nope ...do not do that ...do anything but that ! Get support ++++ mental, emOtional and physical, from anyone and everyone, but not your family Dr or even a Psychiatrist.

[@tatie7604]

Same.God help us in Jesus's name.

[@trishchandler7501]

​@@lucianogoyenechea8704I am also getting off from Clonazepam (Klonopin) 2005 - 2024. Lots of prayers.

[@edithwright6357]

@@JacquiQyour right. Beating Benzo was my family.

[@baileystruss7319]

One of the worst parts is complete ego dissolution and not even believing that you ever existed without this. And add to that the lack of confidence that you will heal.

[@Gonzo-GT]

And the lack of support, validation and understanding from others through all the process. It's very easy to loose hope.

[@jessicafalstein]

excellent description.

[@nickc.5783]

Derealization and dissociation were easily the most difficult part of akathisia I had from antidepressants. Every moment the body is healing itself, acceptance and lots of distraction to pass the time helps. Eating well also helped. You are not alone

[@Davidpriest115]

Lets be honest, do people really heal from this or is just a case of acceptance

[@nickc.5783]

I don’t have derealization/depersonalization anymore and my inner symptoms are going away with time; it’s very difficult though. Not something sugar coated, it’s been hard. keeping track of the healing has been helpful along with acceptance/distraction. It’s been 10 months.

[@TheAjmos]

The fact that doctors do this to you unknowingly and no one in the world believes you or even knows what the heck your talking about is the cherry on top of the suffering. It makes it feel like a horror movie.

[@Q1776Q]

YES!!! I had 8 different doctors and 1 pharmacist tell me there is ABSOLUTELY no withdrawal from a benzodiazepine.

[@sandrahbradley1511]

I really wish that these Dr's that prescribe these types of meds and then dismiss listening to their patients who are right there in front them could switch places with those who are going through this hell, then they'd get it, I know of a pharmacist that left the profession because they no longer wanted to fill a Rx for these types drugs for children,teens they said they know what these drugs will do to them in the long run.

[@KatieLennox]

agree!

[@SmackedyDoo]

Yep. I keep waking up after 4 or less hours a day drenched in sweat with my heart racing and trembling. It is a horror movie.

[@Florence3121]

With all my respect, the level of naivety needed to believe that all this is done 'unknowingly' is mind-boggling to me. It's all planned, people; Follow the money!

[@mullinpeggy]

Utmost respect for Nicole and Dr. Josef. Working as a nurse white coat drug dealer negligently prescribed resulting in first hospitalization, medication induced delirium followed by serious cognitive and physical decline. I was prescribed Seraquel for sleep, 6mg Ativan, 2 (two) 12.5mg ambein, 60mg of Adderall, elavil, Zoloft. 3 failed rehabs from hell trying to get off benzo only to increase neurotoxicity encepholopy. Medication induced neurotoxcity so serious it mimicked 4+ dx of neurodegenerative diseases. Former athlete, law enforcement officer, then nurse. Despite owning 2 homes, I am rehabbing in Senior Living.

[@ministryofpeacekmk]

🙏🏼✝️❤️

[@elainewalters460]

❤❤

[@conorlohman4648]

Thank you for sharing ❤

[@JasonBrown-dd7dj]

God bless your up against it docs should be jailed.

[@barbarahscott8995]

God Bless YOU❤

[@katieb2098]

Dr josef I think its really admirable how much you listen to patients.. its really refreshing . A lot of doctors are not this way

[@josefinesvenson638]

I'm seven years drug free now too. Its true - it gets better!!! even if it can be a long journey.

[@nicolelambic]

Glad you're better!

[@ikedorsey]

7 years, 8 days and 3 hours. When does it get better, please?

[@Thatsbannanas-d8c]

@@ikedorseyyou really made me laugh. My stats are 6.5 years, 7 months, 22 days. When ?

[@georgiabessie]

Nicole is wonderful! I saved her testimony she gave to Massachusetts. Gave words to how I feel about my withdrawal symptoms. Thank you Nicole.

[@palm3rfishman]

Anyone have a link for Nicole’s testimony?

[@georgiabessie]

@@palm3rfishman kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGOyaqWQaJl2hrM

[@georgiabessie]

This is the link for Nicole’s testimony. Don’t know if it worked? Not tech savvy.

[@erinseward]

​​@@palm3rfishmanI would like to view as well. Did you find it? If so would you mind sharing?

[@adonisbuild3288]

Use NAD + IV therapy for your withdrawal. It can be bought online and self injected

[@tamravincent5097]

13 years off cold turkey from POLYDRUGGED. My experience is EXACTLY like Nicole’s. Still not healed but a lot better in many ways now

[@harmedbuthealing]

Was there different points you saw improvements? Are you able to function in day to day life?

[@KatieLennox]

infuriating

[@allencollins6031]

​@@KatieLennoxYes.

[@Jen.K]

Yes similar story here, and same timeline of recovery. The thing which really helped speed up my recovery during the last couple of years is adopting a ketogenic diet, my last remaining symptom is tinnitus, everything else has now gone.

[@allencollins6031]

@@Jen.K I have to look into the diet thing.

[@Oldrockrules]

I'd love to be interviewed because I feel so alone and unheard by everyone, including my family.

[@LisaThames17]

I’ll hear you!

[@Rollwithit699]

Definitely NOT my family...

[@jasonjones3159]

I tapered over 18 months and still happened.

[@pamelameltonhuff583]

Really related to what you said including family they are the worst and they shame you for feeling the way you feel because they don't know what it feels like everyday is like waking up in the middle of the ocean alone we sharks swimming around you God help us survive benzos ssris what's the worst nightmare that was ever invented add doctors say they do not harm I know the harm they're doing it is about money

[@asadianbelifont3875]

Omg I couldn't ever put words to how I felt. This immense sadness, this almost assured doom where you will never be happy again. Living with sobriety seemed like absolute hell, and I could see how some people would consider taking their own lives. The immense sadness and loneliness is overwhelming at times.

[@pf100andahalf]

I discovered Nicole around the time I was trying to figure out how to navigate the hell of coming off of klonopin. I was going through the horrors of what she was talking about and my focus was learning the mechanics of tapering. I tried to help her recover the audio of one of her recordings once but the way it was recorded made it sound like it was underwater and while technically I recovered it I couldn't completely fix the weird underwater sound. I've been off of everything for 5 years now and I've just recently got to where I can stay out of bed all day and I never thought I'd be able to do that again. How horrible.

[@pattilynnwahlsimmons]

That's where I am now, bedridden. I took an antibiotic 16 mos. ago for a sinus infection. My Mom died the day before and I never read you couldn't take an antibiotic. I planned my Mom's funeral but couldn't attend. Who would do that unless they were so sick. My doctor now doesn't believe me of course and thinks I'm crazy. My daughter doesn't believe me... I've lost everything.

[@pf100andahalf]

@@pattilynnwahlsimmons Things will start getting better when you don't care if anyone believes you or not. At least they did for me.

[@pf100andahalf]

@@pattilynnwahlsimmons There's always hope when you're alive. Stop caring if anyone believes you. Just keep going and things will eventually get better.

[@pattilynnwahlsimmons]

@pf100andahalf. Thank you for the comments my frustration comes from having another invisible chronic illness for the last 25 yrs. as well and why I was prescribe benzos.. I didn't look sick but lost my career and went that lot educating others,etc. I can't do that again. I won't give up!!!

[@Rollwithit699]

@@pattilynnwahlsimmons Yes, people forget there was a reason benzos were started in the first place. Was first prescribed Xanax for six years, then switched to Klonopin for the rest of the near 29 years...for extreme anxiety, sadness, insomnia going through a very bad divorce and subsequent bankruptcy, losing my home and moving back to my childhood home with only one of my children, and still working. Took benzos as directed but for almost 29 years, with no information that they could ever be a problem. Had awful symptoms of migraines, twitching, loss of focus, increased anxiety starting around 2010 with no suggestion from any doctor that these symptoms could be from the benzos. Was told I had "central sensitization." Finally heard on video from Jordan Peterson about benzo dangers to brain, that they shouldn't be taken over 2-4 WEEKS! I contacted my doctor and requested to stop taking them. All she said was, "okay, STOP!" No mention of the word taper. I have never taken another benzo since then, 44 months ago. I'm 70 tears old now. For six months I didn't leave my apartment, couldn't focus to think, speak well and certainly couldn't drive. Ordered food delivery from amazon. Thought I was dying. Wanted to die at times. Extreme pounding heart, hyperventilation, worst panic attacks I'd ever had, crying, couldnt sit still or sleep over an hour with panic and nightmares waking me up, burning, itching, muscle zaps, migraines, cramping, ears ringing and whooshing, dizziness, hearing worsening, vomiting/diarrhea, trouble swallowing, almost no appetite. Hypersensitivities heavily increased to now include temperature dysregulation, always too sweltering hot or freezing chattering cold. Contacted my doctor by portal as I wasn't speaking well on phone, and she only replied "make an appointment". Finally saw her six months later when I could drive a bit. She wouldn't discuss it with me, seemed to think I was exaggerating. I'd never been a smoker, drinker or pain pill taker. Had always denied her constant pressure in past to take statins, which seemed to always annoy her. Had always avoided doctor visits whenever possible so wasn't looking for "attention" from her. Yet, here we are. A cardiologist told me I had "paroxysmal ventricular tachycardia" for many months, which has now disappeared, thank God. A neurologist diagnosed the burning, itching skin and electric zapping as "idiopathic small fiber peripheral polyneuropathy" which is a problem with my central nervous system. He would not even consider the cold turkey benzo withdrawal as a possible reason for this condition that is usually triggered by diabetes or an autoimmune illness. His only suggestion for treatment was large doses of gabapentin. I won't take over 600 mg of that in a day due to side effects; he's pushing doses of close to 2000 mg a day. I don't trust doctors at all anymore. Don't take benzos.

[@dpier1987]

There are no words for this. It's amazing the strength of the body to be able to endure it for so long.

[@ministryofpeacekmk]

Thank you Nicole. This interview was very helpful for me to hear today. I am in protracted withdrawal from Xanax...5 years out, and my nightmare is close to what you went through in yours. Thank you so much for talking about your recovery process...I needed to hear a lot of that. Thank you too Dr Josef, as you are a great, great asset to the unfortunates of this community. 💗💗

[@nicolelambic]

Thank you for listening! I wish you more healing...and soon!

[@GoldenGoose70]

I'm 5 years out as well

[@celiabuttigieg]

As a care giver it was such a relief to hear this. It can really wear you down if you're not careful. It is a journey where you learn that you cannot 'fix' anything, only help each step of the way and understand that your loved one really needs that understanding. It's understanding that the pain is not necessarily obvious from the outside, and that understanding this is crucial, as most others do not understand that the depth of the pain is real. So at least, if you, as the caregiver can give them that acknowledgement, it does help. The hardest part for me is setting up boundaries but I realise that it is important.

[@shawnmckinney8352]

Holy smokes! Bless your heart Nicole. Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am currently in the VA hospital in Kansas City detoxing from Xanax withdrawal (Was taking them for 1 month). Felt like I have gone thru hell the last week. I could not read or think. I would begin crying uncontrollably. Today was day 1 where I began to feel better and was able to eat.

[@m_a_lissa]

Thank you for hosting Nicole. Nicole is the epitome of a benzo warrior.. I do believe that there is a higher perspective to this journey but as Nicole demonstrated, there is a very human aspect to this neurological dysfunction and she unfortunately has been a victim for a long time. I’m so sorry of the journey you’ve endured, I wish for you a soon recovery.

[@shan4145]

Yay my favourite two people . Love from Canada . 🙋🏻‍♀️

[@CarolinaBuenad]

From Canada aswell

[@baileystruss7319]

Im 3 yrs and bedbound unbearable suffering. I cannot hold on for several more yrs. I've had 4 online friends end it this past year. I cannot accept that I just have to suffer hell 24/7 for more years. I won't survive. If this is an injury there has to be something that can help.

[@sandrahbradley1511]

Hang in there I know it's difficult I feel you, from my own experience "time" and prayer from one second,one minute,one hour,one day etc. and when I could tune into YT info regarding this hellish experience that was available at that time is the only thing I could hang onto to just get through the day. Blessings to you💜

[@beatrizdickens6183]

Thank you cor talking about this! I wonder if fda should do something about it. Pharma should be sued and put down!

[@moobrien1747]

I take a tiny piece of a bar.every day I can afford them and I say "This piece of crap crumb of an evil drug is the difference between me functioning or perhaps killing myself. WHY???????

[@SmackedyDoo]

im bedbound 85+% of the time as well for 4 years now. If you need a friend, please let me know.

[@andreaurbinajohnson7888]

l am also bedbound , l’ve lost my friends. As you say it’s hard to hold on, l feel lost, having a hard time accepting this nightmare. l also think l wont survive. lam getting old.Reading your testimony, makes me feel less alone, yet still feeling desperate.

[@ValarieinAfrica]

Oh Nicole makes my withdrawal look like a cake walk , and it's been Hell. Bless you girl !

[@MsMary414]

I’m looking for a therapist or psych doctor to start working with who is knowledgeable about akathisia, protracted withdrawals and PTSD. Can anyone recommend someone? Nicole, thank you for all you do. It is such a pleasure hearing you as your a comforting force. I wish people out there would believe that medication can cause such damage and trauma. A lot of respect to Dr. Josef also. I need a doctor who believes and understands what these meds can do and how long it takes the body to heal from the damage. Thank you.

[@moobrien1747]

JORDAN PETERSON., IT'S TIME.

[@pf100andahalf]

@@moobrien1747 Peterson's trying to leave this behind him so don't expect to hear much from him about it.

[@jessikatkins1173]

Good luck with that.❤ many thanks also to Dr. Josef and Nicole.🙏🏼

[@shermac246]

Not Jordan Peterson, read his stuff, he’s a misogynist and has weird ideas about what women should be doing. He’s a kook.

[@Hottogo50914]

I appreciate all these stories, like she said it’s a community of support. I was on sertraline 150 mg for about 4 years. The side effects convinced me to get off of it and the withdrawal has been horrible. I have 4 babies and all they know is that their mommy is sick. I just want to heal. I hope everyone find peace ❤

[@Thatsbannanas-d8c]

Dear super Mom. I’m sending you healing vibes, such a wild ride. I believe in you. You keep going. And don’t give up.

[@dp1663-v5k]

Peace! Yes this is the thing I constantly say to my family....I just need peace from this horrible ride.

[@Lianne-qm4yp]

Hello guys.. How are you now? I think ive been also recovering from protracted withdrawal. I took lots of antibiotics and NSAIDs which were prescribed by Drs 7 mos ago..

[@cyndijoylee]

First time heard of polypharmacy…and wow that explains so very much. I’ve had two heart attacks and open heart surgery that I attribute a lot of it from stress. When the government,ent changed mandates in Canada so only terminal patients could receive certain drugs. I wasn’t terminal but I have complex regional pain syndrome from a piece of gauze left behind after bilateral mastectomy for breast cancer . The drugs were prescribed by the cancer clinic. From the psychiatrist and the pain clinic. Anyway…that’s how it started for me.

[@dianesutch8164]

I liked Nicole since seeing her in Medicating Normal. I like her even more as she appears to be a fellow bird lover. (Pillow in background). Thanks you two for all that you do.

[@nicolelambic]

Thank you! I must admit though, I really don't have much of a thing for birds. My stepmom gave me that pillow as a hand-me-down. I think when she wants to redecorate, I get gifted the old stuff haha. I'm not complaining, it's a pretty pillow! Thank you for your kind words.

[@dianesutch8164]

​@nicolelambic Well then! I guess j like your stepmother too!

[@jackiegerspachhas4237]

Thank you for this interview with Nicole!! I’ve been listening to her from the beginning of my injury of 5 years.

[@nicolelambic]

[@gloriadavis9829]

WOW...a Dr that validates what we are experiencing with no gaslighting us and telling us it's not possible... when it is.

[@palm3rfishman]

I feel incredibly glad fortunate to have access to the care of Dr. Josef and Nicole. I had already been through a life ruining withdrawal from Zoloft in the late 90s and 2000s, when doctors kept piling on different medication’s and telling me that I was just always destined to be seriously mentally ill. when now the adverse effects of all of these meds had pushed me to the very scary point of wanting to try tapering again, it took me several painful and frustrating. years of searching to find Dr. Josef. We need a lot more doctors like him, a lot more coaches, and so forth like Nicole, and who are accessible and affordable for more people. My adverse cognitive eaffects make it almost impossible for me to navigate the online withdrawal community, and I was completely lost, and without anyone to identify what I was going through as withdrawal the last time around. So perhaps things are slowly improving.

[@andreaurbinajohnson7888]

I definitely agree with you!

[@HoneyGemHeart]

❤️🙏🏼

[@barbarahscott8995]

Unfortunately, I’m in a state that Dr. Josef does not service 😢 I m 68, was on 1 mg. clonazepam for 20 yrs, but heard how dangerous they were, and did a very slow taper (slower than ashton), but 4 yrs later, my neurologist says I will not be able to come off, and I am now on 2 mg clonazepam and in unspeakable pain through my entire body. I, too, was on the online FB pages, forums, etc., but had to get off as they were just triggering me even more. I need a provider who understands that one has to taper slowly and help with the scripts. Seems almost impossible to find this!!

[@awkwardthreesome8779]

How are you now? You off the Zoloft?

[@GloriaSchimpf-f2x]

This interview was so encouraging for me. Just today I was having trouble with obessesing about how I am the only one who is still suffering after 11 years. Thank you, Nicole for sharing your story so honestly. I am NOT the only one with a looooonnng recovery. What a beautiful young woman you are! I really appreciate the topics you covered together and how wonderful to see/hear a psychiatrist who "gets it". Thank you, Dr. Josef for sticking your neck out for truth. I am 77 years old and have been off all meds for 7.5 years; I reinstated after 2 years of torture; a year later I was back to tolerance withdrawal and tapered off again. What a wild, confusing, tortuous journey. I hope to still have some good years after I heal. God only knows and that's okay with me because I know He loves me. Thank you both.

[@Lianne-qm4yp]

Hello ma'am. How are you now?..

[@HoneyGemHeart]

🙏🏼Beyond words, Thank You Both🙏🏼 this was one of the most helpful & hopeful interviews iv learnt from so far. Nicole I can relate to so much of your journey, though I had no support for the first 20 months & was one who had the constant terror feeling, the severe weakness etc etc. & yes as traumatic as that was & still sometimes is, the next hardest thing has been no one understanding what it is like, & especially before you find out what has actually most likely caused all the symptoms. For me I believe it was the ‘rapid withdrawal’ done in a hospital detox centre. If nothing else, those in such positions need to be made aware of the horrific dangers of rapid detox off these medications. SLOW PATIENT LED TAPER urgently needs to be added to the box warnings of these medications. Thank you Both again for your time & research & everything. I know over time, it does improve. 🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@nicolewilliams583]

Ashton manual with holds here and there only safe way need a compassionate understanding doctor 🙏💊

[@incognito595]

Nicole, you are a treasure. I am so sorry you all and I have lost so very much. It's incomprehensible. I Will Never Forgive Them for Destroying Me. There is No Excuse. They All Knew what suffering we would endure.

[@anitagardner9397]

Oh my goodness! THIS! It’s EXACTLY what I’ve been going through for the past 2 & 1/2 years or more! I haven’t known anyone else experiencing exactly this, other than another close relative. But neither of us understood what it was, or exactly how to describe it to others. Much less how to describe it to a Dr! NOW I have a name for my condition. And NOW I know that there are many others out there who also suffer from this. And I’m sure many if them have been at a loss as to how to understand it or how to describe it to others. And NOW I can finally see that there IS light at the end of the tunnel. There IS hope for recovery. That helps me to relax and feel kinda ok knowing that yes, it’s been a long process, and it may still be a long process ahead of me in finding full recovery. But at least now I have HOPE!!! Hope before seemed so allusive, so unattainable. Thank God! I’m so thankful to my family member who sent me a link to one of this Dr’s other videos discussing that this condition exists, and naming the condition. Through that I found this video which describes exactly what I’ve been going through mentally. Now I feel like I can truly have hope for a brighter future. For a future without mental illness, a future without protracted withdrawal symptoms. Thank you sooooo much for sharing this valuable info!

[@afol4016]

You,and we,Nicole, do our best. They know that(or should). Don't blame yourself, please.

[@rachelkinney5243]

I used to question why people end up protracted. But now I’m four years off, and I still have a lot of lingering symptoms. I don’t suffer like I did in the beginning; it’s better but still struggling.

[@lucianogoyenechea8704]

@@MegaLatie shame on

[@MegaLatie]

@@lucianogoyenechea8704 you should be ashamed!! these are people with serious mental health problems, bipolar, schizophrenia, mania etc so stop saying it's because of benzo... I've had serious withdrawal symptoms myself, but I'm cured! but stay away from crazy people like you who keep others sick!!! Benzo damage is temporary, you're all a crazy negative club🤮

[@mitch5222]

Does u expirience when u go for a nap and body starts to get like electricuted and lose all energy?

[@jessikatkins1173]

​@@mitch5222 Yes, that also happens to me. Any attempt at sleep, resting or a nap and I start to twitch violently. Muscle spasms like electric shocks but it is getting better. It's known as myoclonus or myoclonic jerks and while really unpleasant they're not something to be worried about. I hope they getting better for you too.

[@silvananicolau179]

Hi Nicole, I follow your life story, your suffering with benzos, please help me, I took benzos for 8 years, my psychiatrist always increased the doses until it got much worse, depression became panic syndrome, so he put me on different types of benzos and antidepressants, I became anhedonic and very sick, so I started researching a lot because I couldn't walk, stand up due to weakness in my legs, I had tinnitus and I had excessive hair loss, I lost everything, my house, my children, I'm being looked after by my mother, I stopped taking the medication, watching your interviews and saw that I had a brain injury due to benzos I've been off them for 1 year, I've improved the weakness in my legs but my hair won't stop falling out and what's worse, I can't work at home, I don't have the strength or the desire to go out, nothing pleases me, I suffer a lot because I have two children and my little girl Her name is also Nicole, I can't keep up with her but take care of her please help me God bless us

[@silvananicolau179]

I took clonazepam 5mg, sulpiride and sulpiride were manipulated for 8 years and after the panic attack I started carbolitium 150mg, Quetiapine, clonazepam at night and during the day I stopped more clonazepam, coming back because it made me worse I put mirtazapine I have brain damage a lot of suffering I also tried take my life twice because I suffered the worst and no one believes you Nicole Lambersom has helped me for 1 year I have had pain in my brain the tinnitus has improved but the injury is here I can't concentrate on anything watching TV dancing which I loved because of these medicines Damn and without any intrusion from the psychiatrist, my God, how can you never ask to reduce it? Help me improve my pain for my daughter Nicole and Thiago, children, I need to take care of them

[@veryrare3300]

Try nmda antagonists it helps with the toxicity that glutamate causes on the body and it also prevents the hair loss

[@Marcus-1211]

Thank you Nicole & Dr. Josef for helping. I feel what your going through. I'm 4 years free, now protracted phase from Xanax .50 mg as needed for 30 years. Same here first 2 years was hell, suffering with a shit load of symptoms totally disabled. Nothing but waves & windows, I'm definitely not the person I can be before. I'm missing out on alot things out of fear. I want to do things but know I can't because my symptoms & the pain are still lingering. Im playing safe in my life with alot of avoidance, sometimes it's frustrating but I'm doing what I can do what my physical body & my mind will tolerate. I feel this is permanent. I literally have no one to talked too. My wife doesn't want to hear any of it anymore because she says it's all in my head & it affects her. As of today I'm still dealing with some symptoms, the most hardest symptom I'm dealing with that's not going away is GI issues, ibs, bloating, nausea, dry gagging, moving, walking is very hard, sensitve to foods, smells, social anxiety, panic, agoraphobia, fatigue, my cns is so very sensitive, alot of wave & very very little windows of normality. I pray for your healing as for mine. ❤

[@discdoggie]

Your wife is telling the truth. Not that it’s in your head, but that it affects her. People tend to forget that loved ones suffer too

[@ashleychristie5023]

Hi! How are you doing these days? Any improvements?

[@Marcus-1211]

@ashleychristie5023 Hi, 9 months later, from posting this. I have to say I am doing better. Most of the symptoms I wrote have greatly improved or lessened a lot, but I still can get setbacks & my symptoms can flair back up. I'm not 100%. I don't think I'll get back to that, buts its ok. Healing does happen. My gut is better. I still get waves & windows. I notice my cns is still hyper sensitive to anything. I can't believe I took 3 30-minute airplane trips in Sept-Oct. I used alot of coping skills & breath work during my trips. Thanks for asking. How are you doing? What is your story? ❤️

[@Denise-yr3le]

​@@Marcus-1211do you also suffer from dizziness and balance issues? So sorry you are going through this!

[@edithwright6357]

I’m 84. Tapered klonopin for 25 month. Off now off 20 months. Was not assisted by the medical community. I’m still having many rough symptoms. I took no other drug to help get off. Never updosed. Just tapered klonopin. My BP has been very high this whole time. I’m taking mag glycinate 100 mg. Bp is good even during these painful symptoms. But mostly homebound because of exhaustion,dizziness, balance etc. it’s tough,

[@KathleenMottinger]

Hi Edith, I'm 84 too.. 1 year post taper. Having a bad time because I'm not having improvement. Do you ever feel like this is just how the end must be because I am old. How do you know that you are ever going to feel like living again?

[@edithwright6357]

@@KathleenMottinger yes. I'm 85 now. Fathers Day. Sun. My hope is not in this world.

[@revaliddiard-bowen8]

Im 73. No positive future that I can see. My body is falling apart and Im in pain mentally and physically. Been in crazy protracted/interdose withdrawl for 3 years. Im the one who identified what was happening…and started tapering in January. Dr. blamed everything on aging. Articles and these videos are the only connection to reality I have. A living hell. (Xanex for 30 years)

[@KathleenMottinger]

Hello again Edith. We seem to be in the same boat. Is there a way to get in touch with you? Not very computer savy. Would love to talk to you.​@edithwright6357

[@kathbates9878]

Thanks Nicole. This could be my story except mine started earlier with estrangement and grief. Listening to this brought a good conversation with my husband and how he felt during the worst park. He says if he knew??? If we all knew what was happening, we could have done it better. A difficult path on healing is trying to get people who abandoned and judged me to even listen or care.

[@nicolelambic]

I responded, but it looks to have disappeared. I just said: when we know better, we do better. At one point, my dad did say "we didn't realize how sick you were." I'm OK with that. To me, the apologies and the 'repair' when we are trying to navigate this stuff together, and we make mistakes, is what's important. Re: your people who abandoned and judged and getting them to even listen or care. Perhaps they're never going to? Perhaps they're not your ride-or-die people. Maybe they're leaves or branches and not roots? (see: kzbin.infov0LXY_fK6PY?si=az08odCU3pyC_9LJ) That's OK. You know now. This experience (and probably all kinds of other chronic health issues) will definitely show you who is who.

[@afol4016]

We love Nicole,and Thank her so much for her work. Thank you, Nicole. Live your life. I'm sure people miss you.

[@kylegood2622]

❤

[@basdevos1746]

Tapering off from 16mg diazepam. Now down to 5.5mg. 10% off each current dose, every two weeks. I will never go to a MD who practises western medicine, ever again. That is all I have to say about it.

[@i.ehrenfest349]

Woon je in Nederland, Bas?

[@basdevos1746]

Ja klopt. Bij hoogtepunt burnout aan de benzo's gezet. Wat een achtbaan. Jij?

[@i.ehrenfest349]

@@basdevos1746 ik slik een SSRI. Heb geprobeerd daarmee te stoppen - onmogelijk. Langzaam gedaan, over 2 jaar. Zeven maanden op 8 Mg geweest, de symptomen werden niet minder. Hele zenuwstelsel naar god, bij wijze van spreken. Ik wist niet dat protracted withdrawal bestond. Idioot dat ze in 2023 nog benzos voorschrijven voor langer dan 2 weken. Ben je nog aan de benzo, of ben je er helemaal af? O, sorry, zie je oorspronkelijke comment weer. Je bent midden in de taper. Kom je enigszins door de dagen?

[@Thatsbannanas-d8c]

Same.

[@jeffzest8393]

Why continuing to taper?

[@i.ehrenfest349]

What Nicole said about her father is recognisable. When I was in (Paxil) withdrawal I called my father for hours every day. He was so ridiculously patient and sweet to me. I don’t know how he did it. He only got a little irritated one time. I’m not sure I could do that for somebody else. I guess what helped is his sense of humour. Mine was gone of course, at the time.

[@nicolelambic]

Sounds like an amazing dad. Im so glad you had him!

[@i.ehrenfest349]

@@nicolelambic Ha, thanks, Nicole, he was a doll. (Still is, but has dementia, now.) I guess it helped that he was familiar with depression and anxiety. He used to call me when he went on vacations alone and inevitability got deeply depressed in the first week. I would tell him I was doing even worse, and he’d say that cheered him up. Other people don’t always understand that humour, but when much of your life is rather miserable it’s good to joke about it now and then. I must say, I’m appalled that you’re still going through all that after so many years. My life is not too much fun, to be sure, but the horrible, protracted withdrawal is a thing of the past (though only because I went back on the SSRI.) I used to tell myself, and still do, that it’s like living with chronic pain. That reconciles me a bit with the inevitability of it. Your remark about having cried to someone on the phone last night helped me. I woke up this morning with black stomach churning panic, before having had any thoughts. It’s like that a lot. Knowing someone else feels similar things and is still going strong is reassuring. Thanks, Nicole. I hope this ends for you soon - god knows you deserve it.

[@nicolelambic]

@@i.ehrenfest349 Thank you! And, humor is the best medicine sometimes. If I couldn't laugh at some of the ridiculousness of this whole thing, I don't know where I'd be!

[@stardustring]

It's your father . Your his little girl. He will always be there for you.

[@thisgirl5933]

My mom is helping me a lot. How long did it last for you?

[@carolinecroft7029]

Such an eloquent description of how it awful it feels. Thank you for this video. Gives hope.

[@peterwright-z6j]

My sister has been suffering from protracted withdrawal here in Australia for the last 18 months after going off Zoloft cold turkey 🤦🏻It has been absolute hell for her as the psychiatrists here don’t get it at all, they just keep upping doses of meds and when they don’t work they just say she is resistant, then change antidepressants and when they don’t work they say she needs ECT to which we have refused. We had a zoom with Dr Josef who gave us hope when he said her brain will heal. Australia needs a describing clinic and people like you have in the US and England eg Mark Horowitz. We have an appointment online with Dr Purssey in Brisbane who is a friend of Dr Josef but we live in Victoria so if anyone knows of a psychiatrist in Victoria who gets it, please comment and let me know and if you know of any tapering coaches in Aus. Cheers Peter

[@laurenpeyrouton8351]

Try Dr Sanil Rege. He isn’t a Desubscriber but very intelligent when it comes to meds. Could help her get stable then taper. Worth a shot.

[@peterwright-z6j]

Thank you Lauren

[@Starfish2145]

You’re never supposed to go off SSRI is cold turkey. You have to tape her down.

[@HoneyGemHeart]

I too am in Australia. & hope to have an appointment with Dr Purrsy in April (earliest I can be fit in) You are doing an amazing thing for your family member. I understand it must be incredibly difficult for All of you. Just knowing she has support is a Huge thing 🙏🏼. I did not. My family all expected me to go back to the strong person I was for the first 4.5 decades of my life & because no Dr recognised I had gone into protracted withdrawl, I had no explanation to give my family as to why I had become such a mess after withdrawing the medication, instead of going back to the person I was. Bless you for caring enough to seek out understanding and help for your loved one. 🙏🏼🌟

[@peterwright-z6j]

Hi Corinna, I’m sorry to hear that you are suffering this terrible affliction of protracted withdrawal and that you’re doing it on your own. My sisters psychiatrist in the public system never mentioned it until l mentioned this could be protracted withdrawal after dr Josef said my sister more than likely had it. He just brushed it off and kept banging on how good ECT is. I tried to tell him that if her brain is already injured then wouldn’t electric shocks make it worse not better? Again he just brushed it off again, our appointment is in March with Dr Purssey, there is another psychiatrist in Adelaide who Dr Josef mentioned who gets it. I will look up his name and post it. Cheers Peter

[@justdesi86]

I would like to know what symptoms Nicole still has to deal with... But understand if she doesn't want to share. Such a strong woman.

[@afol4016]

We're in this with you, Nicole. Never Alone. "Brain Damage" rather than "protracted withdrawal." She's lucky to have you as a friend.

[@shelleywoolf9693]

This is the BEST video i've seen on protracted withdrawal and brain injury! Thank you.

[@aquamaree7022]

I am 9.5 years off and currently in a set back after 8 months of doing well. It's heartbreaking being back in the trenches again, but I know this can be part of the process. Protracted wd folk need a voice, we need to be heard. Happy to share my story.

[@georgios4891]

You are so brave Nicole. Great inspiration to other sufferers.

[@unknown-8696]

@Drjosef. Can you PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE make a video about the chronic muscle issues people have for years without window. And overstimulation. Can it be permanent? Im 28 years anf im hopeless suffering for 4years now.

[@i.ehrenfest349]

When I saw the face of the gentleman that was in another recent episode, I knew I had seen that look before. And then I realised - long ago, there were people in the news who had been kidnapped and held hostage, sometimes for years, in Lebanon etc. Some were interviewed after their ordeal. Nicole has that look, too, the same look that these people did. It is the look of someone who has been tortured.

[@Cheesygarlicccc]

You said it

[@jessikatkins1173]

My goodness you are right.

[@azalia423]

Like the poor Palestinians in Gaza

[@nyx3967]

It's indescribable torture.

[@allencollins6031]

​@yx3967

[@hipnicity]

I had a pharmaceutical induced breakdown. I came out of a 14 day hold & self-tapered off all meds. It’s been 3 years on April 1st. I go out one night a week & otherwise only go out when absolutely necessary. The meds killed who I am. I probably have no recourse but still have to hope I continue to improve.

[@LostLevelMusic]

My family and friends don't really understand either. They just think I'm depressed and thinking negatively... so I've chosen just to act happy around them. I only have my Facebook groups and such to speak to about it. I think I will be better in a year or two so I'm just faking things until I'm there. These videos are so helpful to hear similar stories

[@jojojeep1]

From what I learned about this injury, is not to get injured at all. It’s for us to tell people what they’re in for and give them the proper weaning so it softens the landing the less damage you do the easier it is to get out of this.

[@revaliddiard-bowen8]

Too late if protracted/interdose withdrawl has already taken hold. Complaints to doctor were written off as aging (Im 73 been on Xanex for 30 years before real bad things started happening).

[@shan4145]

She’s glowing now🥰

[@makemoneynow8690]

Nicole has been very helpful to me as I've learned from her interviewing how to help support my daughter who has had protracted withdrawal.

[@TheViperGuy91]

Hey Dr. Josef, i went through a awful drug reaction to ciprofloxin a while ago and it can cause many of the same side effects as the benzo class of drugs. If possible i figured i could share my experience with you and maybe you could share that information with other folks about the dangers of that drug family and potential things to try after being floxed to get through to the other side.

[@Irishrose777]

Try emailing him. The email address is in the video info section.

[@frebrd78]

Thank you for offering to share your testimony. People need to be aware of withdrawal symptoms with a variety of many pharmaceutical medications. 🌻🌹

[@meagiesmuse2334]

At 9:25 in to this, she mentions protracted withdrawal shouldn't have happened since nobody should be forced off old turkey, and I agree. However, protracted withdrawal can also happen even if you taper. I did 2 full years of tapering, using the Ashton method, but I am still suffering 7 years later, 5 plus full years off Xanax. In 1986, when I was put on Xanax for muscle spasms throwing me off my feet, my prescribing ARNP had been told that Xanax was the non-addictive substitute for Valium. What angers me still is that doctors seem to believe whatever drug sales reps say to them, even after having this sort of thing happen over and over again.

[@nicolelambic]

Hi there, in my case, the CT caused the severity and protracted syndrome, yes, but you are correct - people can go protracted from a taper too (although, I'd argue it's usually one that's too fast - Ashton is too fast for many). Anyhow, what I meant was that this didn't have to happen at all - meaning, if people got informed consent, if people weren't left on for years, if regulators would've made changes way back in the 60s when the truth about these meds started to come out, etc. Overall, in so many ways, it just didn't have to happen... Im so sorry for your protracted suffering.

[@mazymonroe8749]

I agree. I did a harm reduction taper from a SSRI and am struggling with acute protracted withdrawal at 13 months cessation!

[@germainedenon311]

​@nicolelambic In your work or contact in the community, do you have people who suffer who random non stop images from the injuries ?

[@nicolelambic]

@@germainedenon311 can you explain more? What do you mean by 'images from the injuries'?

[@germainedenon311]

@@nicolelambic my brain has been churning random images and visual flashback non stop like a broken tv since I came off CT from ssri , benzo, Anticonvulsant and Z drug. Of course, there are other weird and debilitating symptoms. Wonder if you have seen or know of anyone like that? It's so rare..so far I know only 2 others who have it

[@AlteredState76]

id like to see a video where it talks about physical symptoms especially palpitations and arrhythmias...

[@jeffzest8393]

Where are the short recovery stories?

[@JenniferKarnacewicz]

Great interview with great questions! Minute 47: this is why having a Benzo Recovery Health Coach is useful. I remember that phase of trying to convince others of this injury and Nicole gives great advice on that. By the way - mindful protocol is different from “distraction”.

[@incognito595]

Outraged, absolutely. i am overwhelmed with Rage at having my life and future stolen from me. And they Are Never Held Accountable!

[@incognito595]

They All Knew for more than 60 years the horrors of these drugs. Don't EVER think they "had no idea." It was all about money, of course.

[@mazymonroe8749]

You have every right to be !

[@katrinamenzies9398]

@@incognito595 my life a completely damaged by Ativan also it’s been going on for over 50 years. I noticed they have put out an extended release Ativan now I can’t believe the nerve of these evil drug lords

[@australiaprisonisland9156]

@@incognito595 Money is the driving factor always has been.

[@incognito595]

But you can file formal, serious Complaints with your State Board of Medicine. Each state has one. Give All the details of your story. .

[@kathleenneff]

True heroes. Both of you, thank you with all my heart ❤

[@Juliabaker1]

Thank you for your honesty, Nicole, and all the good advice, and Dr. Josef, thank you for your sensitive questions and listening.

[@DiogoSantos-ix5sl]

There is so much in common between adverse reaction and withdrawal patients; I find this very relatable. It’s been a very rough ride, I’ve come out of the worst of it say 6 months ago.

[@bwinkle2915]

So reassuring finally that it’s being highlighted what psychiatric medications can cause and that stopping them is actually fear provoking and can be debilitating. Thanks for the understanding.

[@afol4016]

Dr. Josef, I feel strongly that people, and the public, should know how serious this is. It should be referred to by what it is:"Brain Damage."

[@PinkScorpion333]

Sorry u went thru that😢! 7 yrs is so long😢Feel like im suffocating every day! Like my cns tells my brain not to breathe!! Many to e.r so many times!! I get vibrating in ribs, chest, stomach, upper back n causes pain!! Extreme muscle tightness n squeezing 🥺also severe pain in back of head n eyes🥺🥺🥺wanna die.. air hunger scariest feeling. N body feels like its on fire 🥺🥺

[@allencollins6031]

It is very horrible those symptoms.

[@adriandelacruz9970]

How do i recover from trauma of this 6.5years snd still struggling

[@shan4145]

This is my third time watching it while on cannabis . And this is similar to chronic painful pains .😢

[@osis1k]

Very much needed video podcast.

[@germainedenon311]

A very courageous woman

[@osis1k]

Omg. She is a survival hero!

[@shan4145]

It’s a miracle . For Nichole. Wow I can’t even . This video is a 💎. 📖🧠✍️

[@msandrearobinson]

I have a friend suffering from benzo withdrawal. It's devastating. Thank you for good information.

[@kathrynfranz2100]

Really appreciate this content being published. Bit by bit, it is helping to educate and hopefully improve patient self advocacy and psychiatry as a profession.

[@mariarooney6262]

Thank you so, so much for sharing your story. I’m so pleased that you’ve made it through. I’ve been through some of this and it takes a lot of strength to get through. I’m not through it yet from antidepressants and still need to get off of a benzodiazepine. The hardest part are the tremors. It’s embarrassing, I’m working on not allowing it to bother me when others notice. I don’t want to be around people, but I’m not able to control the tremors. I’m much older and have been on them for a long time. I’m happy to be off them although I have a long way to go because I’m only off of them a few months and have a long way to go. I’m determined to make it through. The side affects are worse to me than the withdrawal symptoms, which are pretty horrible. Programs like this hearing others stories gives me inspiration to keep on going. Thank you and the best to all who are going through this. ❤️

[@nerd1211]

She hasn’t made it through, she’s been in withdrawal for 15 years.

[@mariarooney6262]

@@nerd1211 she’s alive. I’ve been there and fought for 15 years, but I’m still here and happy that I’m winning. I knew someone was going to say that, you didn’t disappoint.

[@nerd1211]

@@mariarooney6262 doesn’t sound like living to me

[@Carby.J]

Great interview guys. Keep it up Doctor!

[@Justlikemagic96]

More of these interviews please, Dr. Josef.

[@erinseward]

Thank you to Nicole for sharing. Thank you to you and Josef for spreading awareness, and thank you for inspiring hope. I am in "it" and I am fighting my way to the other side, doing as she says, working towards the fantasy of life after recovery, and the finding strategies how to survive the journey back. I much appreciated the description of the roller coaster effect of windows and waves and the reality of the invisibleness of this syndrome. I feel strongly about how we don't always look sick and it is such a detrimental part of this situation because it can cause others disbelief in us. I also appreciated the family, friends, and withdrawal community resources rings of support model suggested. I also could appreciate care givers and withdrawal patients setting boundaries and limits strategies to avoid burnout. I think they are very helpful to both parties in surviving the long recovery process of protracted withdrawal. Many other helpful suggestions were made. It is really good to see stories like this being shared.

[@williamserver4332]

I relate to pretty much everything Nicole said. Thanks for the help.

[@Justsaying121]

I'm busy watching this and hoping that maybe this one will give me hope of recovering. I so badly want someone to say, I made it out on the other side and this is how.

[@CorneliusSpivey]

God work Nicole 💜

[@Verity-x]

Amazing interview. Thank you both of you for articulating something so beyond words, so well.

[@autumnstevens9665]

Thanks for speaking up about this. I am 3 yrs off all medications. 12 yrs on respirdal and lamictal. Have bizarre health issues arise 7 yrs ago. I am definitely in protracted withdrawal. I have muscle movement disorders, unbearable pain and bowel problems. I quit my job last year and am at a loss as of what to do or where to go for help. Much appreciation and may you recover and help many.

[@JaniceOstrow]

These videos are helping me get through this. Thank you Dr Josef ❤

[@stephaniebolitho7348]

Thank you for what you do. I Wish all doctors can see this

[@Aem640]

What is protracted withdrawal? Where can I get help for my son? His video psychiatrist just says there was nothing else she could do for him for his issues and I’m not even sure she knew he was having what I believe is tolerance withdrawal. My heart breaks for him

[@_M_a_r_t_i_n_M]

I'm 3 months in, off Etizolam, which in my country, I was taking legally for this constant headache I had, which no doctor could explain nor treat, yet somehow both alcohol and etizolam (oddly actual benzos did not do _nearly_ as much for pain relief). It sucks. Smoking weed helps. CBD/CBG/CBN oils work miracles (for ME). What people need to keep in mind for this is though, that while it is a long dark tunnel. There IS a light at the end of the tunnel. It is worth it to just keep moving along forward.

[@GaryManning-m3n]

I love your podcast. Im so messed up too. Thankas for your education.

[@Leighla2008]

She’s very wise. We do have to let go of our need for accountability or justice. Especially when so many have contributed to our harm all these years and gaslit us into thinking our brain was broken and resistant and it’s not side effects, it’s the illness progressing. Like I told someone, what kind of illness exists where they tell you there’s no cure and dangerous medications are needed for life and there’s no other way to manage it. I wish her continued healing and peace. I needed to hear this today. ❤

[@Thatsbannanas-d8c]

Thank you, you both delivered.

[@JenineRieusset]

Excellent interview let's just jold on J

[@JenineRieusset]

Jold mean't to be hold

[@juliehatton1961]

Wonderful interview. Thank you both.

[@user-xg4dk3ch6y]

Thank you so much. You give me hope and validation and inspire me, both of you, in my living hell....thank you ♥️🙏 it is life saving.

[@SuperFoodParents]

36:44 I'd love to hear the interviews of Caregivers and loved ones who have been in these extended roles for extended periods of time🎙 Nicole's dad is to be championed along with so many others 🏅

[@palm3rfishman]

My husband asks if there are any groups for the partners or family members of people going through withdrawal - even better, if in Spanish

[@nicolelambic]

My dad rocks. Saved my life. I'd be dead without him. Kudos to all the family, friends, and caregivers who stick with us...through the absolute worst of times.

[@cyndijoylee]

Three years off of 17 years of being prescribed long acting oxy and sleeping pills. 13 years off a plethora of pysc drugs. All prescribed because of a surgical injury. Gauze left behind and an abscess formed and subsequent emergency surgery and being sepsis because no one would listen to me about what I was feeling inside, physically. But my doctor literally rolled her eyes.

[@CBT5777]

What about the muscle and nervous system damage we get when we come off these drugs? I'm 3 years off benzos and my body is still burning sore and weak. I still have akathisia as well. Why is this doctor never talking about this?

[@Q1776Q]

He HAS talked about in other videos.

[@CBT5777]

Why doesn't he address it in this one?@@Q1776Q

[@CBT5777]

The physical damage caused by these drugs are the absolute worst part of benzo withdrawal. It needs to be discussed in "every" video about benzo withdrawal. It is the #1 reason why people are on disability and can't work. It pisses me off that it is not discussed in every video regarding benzo withdrawal. It's like they're hiding something for legal reasons. @@Q1776Q

[@beautifullybroken1591]

He talks about it alot

[@CBT5777]

@@beautifullybroken1591 He has talked about it but not nearly enough. nine people agree with me.

[@Dancingmylifeaway]

Nicole thanks so much ❤❤

[@racheldahliamusic]

I wish we could test for telomere mitochondria shortening...cos I have a hunch this is what is SEVERELY happening in protracted withdrawal.

[@katieb2098]

Can you reverse it

[@nyx3967]

I agree.

[@moobrien1747]

THE ANGER IS SMOKING.

[@magnustrygg5632]

Carnivore diet has helped me. When I eat leafy greens my system goes haywire. In August I’m 11 years free from benzos. Trying to find peace over what I believe is a fact, that I will never heal fully. Body symptoms are the worst. Feels like a cocktail with sunburn, pins and needles, twitching and some weird electric feeling.

[@jeffzest8393]

Where do you get withdrawal friends? Thx.

[@Denise-yr3le]

There are facebook groups