What is Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome?

What do doctors, loved ones and those potentially at risk need to know about this devastating illness?
For more info go to www.w-bad.org
Follow me on Twitter @BenzoBrains
www.myfoxaustin...
Diagnosis & Insurance coding for Benzo withdrawal symptoms.
Poisoning by unspecified drugwww.icd9data.co...
Unspecified adverse effectwww.icd9data.co...
Sedative hypnotic or anxiolytic dependencewww.icd9data.co...
References Link:
docs.google.co...
DISCLAIMER:
The information and opinions presented here are for educational purposes only and are not intended to take the place of medical advice. Do not ever suddenly stop taking a benzodiazepine or Zdrug or abruptly withdraw from such without proper medical supervision. I disclaim any liability or loss in conjunction with the information that is presented on this channel.

[@TomRock81]

It's pretty bad when you're more afraid of withdrawling from a drug than putting a gun in your mouth, and that's exactly what these damn things do.

[@adoratedeum]

+TomRock81 yes, exactly. I tried to kill myself, because I was so afraid of withdrawal. I tried to cut my throat, lost lot of blood, was saved in time, ended up in psych hospital, where they treated me horribly and stopped my benzos (plus one opioid drug - tramadol) abruptly from day to day. It must have been even worse than going through abrupt withdrawal at home, because medical stuff just treats you like.. you're worthless. Plus all the withdrawal symptoms (no one understands), no privacy, no support, no way to relax, etc... it's hell. But I'm *never* taking benzos again or try to kill myself - from fear I would end up in that same damned hospital on psych ward! So that is one good result. And of course being clean, I'm so happy now:)

[@TomRock81]

Kateřina Šafaříková Way to get your life back! I'm in the process for the millionth time, but for some reason this feels different than any other time I tried to get off benzos and then methadone, getting off benzos first. It's that time in my life where it's time to get busy living or time to get busy dying. Wish the asshole that prescribed the Xanax would have told me that benzos aren't a long term drug, and when you wean off them, even when you're totally off them, you can have withdrawal symptoms for up to 2 fucking years! Thanks Doc!

[@pinkgal206]

+Kateřina Šafaříková smh

[@buckie48192]

Ativan sucks because I'm still on them. I was weaned down to .5 mg and back to 1mg as I could not sleep due to high stress. The AMA are evil cause they know howdangerous these drugs are but it's all about the money. All they see is dollar $ signs.

[@JCNahundi]

TomRock81 unfortunately i have to agree with that statement .

[@amandaremington9871]

I don't usually comment on youtube videos...but I have to here. this moved me to tears. I was a 7 year user of Klonopin, and recently went through a 6 mo. tapering process that still led me into horrible withdrawal syndrome. it's a very lonely thing, and to hear you talk about it is an incredibly validating feeling. although I know I will eventually heal, I forget it constantly. usually am I terrified that my brain in permanently "broken" and I will never be able to enjoy life again. thank you for this video, it helped me remind me that this isn't forever.

[@BenzoBrains]

+Amanda Remington Thanks for commenting and keep fighting the good fight Amanda. You will heal. This is the loneliest thing I have ever experienced, even when surrounded by people. I hope you are part of a support group that will help you to not feel so alone as you recover.

[@xxGoRiLLaZxx777]

I've been taking clonazepam for about 8 years and I am going on my third week of withdrawals. Could you be a friend to me for advice and help

[@oldmoney-rh2jf]

7 years way too long and anyone with common sense would agree. ..7 hears on an happy pill wow. It's only a temporary drug to get you through what ever you're going threw. ..

[@fabulousdolphin4221]

@@oldmoney-rh2jf remember NO ONE tells people this...not the drs OR pharmacistz. Pharmokeia...sorcery through drugs. Look it up.

[@azeminasuljic2947]

Amanda Remington Hi Amanda I am also tapping from Klonopin? How are you feeling now? Is it possible to heal?

[@MK-pl4fr]

I’m in severe situation. I wish I knew the danger of benzodiazepine 10 years ago.

[@jesseredwards]

I don't have benzo withdraw but I know it's a real thing. I do have panic disorder and therapy has helped me a lot. I'm so glad I didn't go on pills for my problems. I look up to people like you for going through so much and still doing what you can to help others.

[@bobravenscraft5376]

Sir you are a real man I've only taken this in very small doses I hope I've caught this in time you have the right idea meditate don't ever fall into this

[@tomasalas1122]

I also have a panic disorder and now I am in withdrawal from these poisons. Panic attacks are heaven compared to this hell.

[@blairsterling6141]

Jesse...you were extremely wise never to take any benzo. The drugs dramatically alter the gaba in the brain. My brain was affected in only 11 days. !! After that I have had horrendous insomnia for 26 years. I sleep only about 3 to 4 hours a night. My brain never did back to Homeostasis. Equilibrium.

[@skepticalsteve5206]

I wish I could like this video a million more times. it's sad how the medical industry is so naive, uneducated, ignorant, realize they've made a mistake and are too proud as doctors to admit they're wrong and they simply just pull the wool over their own eyes to not see the thousands or maybe millions of people suffering through this. As someone who has tapered improperly through the advice of an uneducated doctor and I've reinstated klonopin in my every day life, I urge everyone to please take this video as sound advice.

[@Vancouver_1986]

They'll never admit that they made a mistake. In any other industry besides healthcare, it's a legitimate liability, malpractice, and a lawsuit. Legitimately. There are no financial consequences for them; just us. We are disabled and cannot work- even long-term. Most of us haven't even contracted SARS-CoV-2 yet either. That would fuck up our physiology even more.

[@DavidWaeldervideo]

Glad you care so much to put this time into this info. Thank you

[@johndunkle5782]

Im seriously blown away. you are giving me hope, thank you so much...all the things ive been trying to say. On Xanax since 22 , now 34 and trying to prove this has ruined my life.

[@kevin424]

hey man, how are you doing now? i started around 22 and am turning 33. feel like my life has been ruined and am tapering down right now. is there any hope?

[@christophesmee3405]

Thanks for the video. I've been using/withdrawing from Benzos for around 7 years now! Been a living hell :( I'm currently down to 20 mg Diazepam per day, tapering by 1 mg per week. The worst part about all of this is the medical communities ignorance of this syndrome.

[@this-is-slammin-549]

I started taking my mother to all my psychiatrist appointments. I also let him know that I frequently obtain my med records. I also challenge my psychiatrist frequently but tactfully. I think it’s important to make sure that my doctor learns from my “misfortune” This will never get better until we hold them accountable.

[@Vancouver_1986]

Similarly, here's a post I found on (I think) MadInAmerica: How to Interview a potential Psychiatrist: 1. Have you ever suffered from depression? (I understand that the depression rates are quite high in medical school.) 2. Are you comfortable with the violent and oppressive history that are the roots of your professions and that still exist today? 3. Have you ever thought about suicide? (I understand the rates for suicide are quite high for the Mental Health profession.) 4. How is your marriage? (I understand there is a lot of marital dissatisfaction in your profession.) 5. How do you deal with stress? 6. Who is running mental health checks on your profession to ensure you are fit to serve the public? 7. How many of your patients have you cured? 8. How many of the people who come to see you are not diagnosed with a mental illness? 9. What do you think of the methods that the DSMV uses to determine the criteria of a mental illness? 10. Do you agree that shrinks should be paid on a results-only basis? 11. How do you feel about me taping our sessions? 12. If your children were Dx’ed with Mental Illness(es), would you want these medications for them? 13. Would you ever take the drugs you are prescribing to me? 14. Have you ever been medicated? (I understand that medication is quite high for Doctors and in particular shrinks.) 15. Have any of your patients ever died of drug related side effects from the medication you prescribed to them? 16. Have any of your patients ever committed suicide? How many? 17. Have you ever been sued by a former patient? Do you mind if I FOIP that? 18. How many formal complaints have been lad against you by former clients? Where can I verify that information? 19. Do you have hospital privileges? Why did you lose them? Why not? 20. How much money are you being paid for this visit?

[@yurih.5125]

Thanks for providing this essential information so eloquently. I was pulled off of a 12 year klonopin regimen (taken as prescribed) in 1 week. There was no taper. Just an immediate switch to phenobarbital. At the same time the doctor detoxed me in 10 days off 3 years of Suboxone. Needless to say, what ensued was a horror I would not wish anyone (With the exception of Hitler, Stalin and other sadists and despots. Oh and Dick Cheney of course) I endured 16 months of unrelenting anguish. The man's name is Dr. Salzman and he worked at Promises Treatment. He deserves to be named because he's a cold sociopath with utter ignorance of P.A.W.S. and it was an act of barbaric malpractice! I have so much compassion for all those enduring the acute and protracted symptoms of these exquisitely diabolical substances!

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Uri how r u now

[@DreamsOfFinland]

the non THC version of CBD oil rebalanced my nervous system and helps me sleep. Sometimes called Charlotte's Web it is the oil used for children with seizures. If you live in a legal state and have a dispensary it may be very helpful to those suffering while trying to get off these pills. I was given Ativan for years and the CBD oil helped everything, quickly. hope this helps others.

[@recynd77]

FinnishMasseuse My husband has experienced the same thing. CBD (with or without THC) seems to have helped soothe his nervous system. My husband was taking up to nearly 7mgs/day of Klonopin to treat his dystonia. Ridiculously high amount. We have spent the past year tapering his dose down to 1.75mg/day (1mg at night; .75mg in morning). He has all the symptoms described, but he keeps battling on. CBD does help quite a bit.

[@mikedorf245]

What is a good dose to take of cbd?

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Half Baked Hippie how r u now

[@chifreak6]

Rock on Cuz I use(d) weed & cbd to help & it did (does). My BWS was severe. Shoulda been hospitalized but dummys here, so did it by myself. God bless.

[@meganperkins8181]

do you recommend a specific brand

[@Divergent333]

the dislikes are probably doctors lol

[@CliffMcLarnon]

Leah Divergent Or probably big pharma!

[@Michaela2345]

Leah Divergent,...Definitely! My doctor was angry that I actually had surfed the internet...I suffered from "chronic depression" or trd depression. Now I'm tapering, having bad bad withdrawals but depression relieved after 10 years on klonopin!

[@CliffMcLarnon]

Wow,I'm sure,I was on and Xanax and Kloapin for years after an MVA,it was more dabilatating being on Benzos,than the acual PTSD,It was harder every time I got off em,I've been officially off for 6 months,Dr Just cut me off cold,Was hell,but worth getting off of them,won't ever touch em again..Best of luck you you all!It gets better,the worst part is the insomnia and panic attacks I get,that never had before taking them..These videos helped me out a lot,I'm so grateful!

[@Michaela2345]

Cliff M God bless!:) I wonder if I ever get my brain back after so many years on klonopin. I couldn't work normally through all the years, also I had to stop studying. Life is funny, really...I have nothing now so I have nothing to lose:))

[@CliffMcLarnon]

Michaela2345 It does get better, unfortunately individuals are different,and it could take years,and there are so many phantom symptoms that can be mistaken for all sorts of things years after,I would tell all Drs that you are going trough Benzo withdrawas before you get misdiagnosed with something you don't have I found what helped me was Tart cherry drink, magnesium,zinc,potassium,for me,CBD,and lots of water helped..,best of luck to you all getting off this wicked drug!

[@sanditeale6534]

Thank you so much for making this video. I've been searching for a support group as I'm going through a horrendous time. I was put on them at 15(wasn't eating and exam nerves) , about 50 mg then. I didn't realise until 28 I was on addictive medication. I am on 15 mgm now but am housebound. My doctor doesn't understand the side effects. I feel validated when I hear someone like yourself talking about Benzo withdrawal Syndrome, its such a relief. Thank you...If anyone knows of anyone knows of any support groups in the UK, please drop me a line. I would be so grateful Thank you you are an angel.xx

[@BenzoBrains]

+Sandi Teale Are you in any online support groups? www.benzobuddies.org is based in the UK. There are also a couple of good Face book groups in which I participate : facebook.com/groups/112449132147409/?ref=bookmarks facebook.com/groups/benzowithdrawal/ Thank you for your comment, I wish you healing as you continue to taper. That's an awful thing to do to a young girl.

[@sanditeale6534]

+littlemissperfect Thank you for replying. No I;m not.I have been quite agitated as I;ve developed a need for more valium, hence my is mind not able to focus.I'm going to have to me honest with my GP about how bad I'm feeling. thank you, yes I'll need support.the only group I belonged to shut down because of lack of funding 8 years ago.Yes it was an awful thing to do to a young girl.I found out at 5 yrs old the doctors gave me 'librium' for not eating too, the methodology has to be questioned.With love x

[@NinjaNick636]

Thank you for this 🙏🏼🙏🏼 Still the most informative video that speaks so much volume on something people who haven’t been on this drug will NEVER understand... I’m down from 3 a day to 1. This last pill has been the hardest 😣😔 This video does give me hope, truly thank you for that!

[@TheJoker1930Ford]

Thanks for the kind words... Hope you are doing well. Your smile and insight is a beacon of light in these dark days. Keep the videos coming. I hope to share my story very soon)))

[@BenzoBrains]

thanks I'll look forward to hearing your story

[@BenzoBrains]

Diazepam is the generic for Valium. I can assure you , I know these drugs inside and out ;)

[@TheJoker1930Ford]

littlemissperfect​ is spot on as always...

[@BenzoBrains]

+Michelle Dorsey haha haha! this is too good not to share. this is going totally going on facebook

[@Rollwithit699]

​@@BenzoBrains I'm a 70 y/o woman, currently 44 months off cold turkey withdrawal of almost 29 years of benzos (Xanax for 1st six years, was then switched to 1.5 to 2 mg klonopin for remainder of those years) always taken as directed. In 2020 I heard a video of Jordan Peterson talking about his withdrawal experience. I was shocked, had never heard there was a time limit on them (2-4 weeks, max) or heard they were potentially dangerous. Called my doctor saying I wanted to stop taking them and she said "okay, STOP!" I stopped that day and have never taken another. My doctor seemed to think I was making up these symptoms, rolled her eyes at me. Wouldn't discuss it with me. Withdrawal was so insanely bad, especially for first six months, I thought I might die. You know the awful symptoms. Now at 44 months, I'm still extremely hypersensitive to all my senses including texture as my skin is so crazy itchy, burning, oversensitive. I cannot regulate my body temperature anymore. I no longer smile or have a personality. My adult children dont enjoy my company anymore. I stay in my apartment and avoid everything and everyone as my anxiety levels are still way too high, worsened by people. Anxiety makes me hurt more. Migraines/occipital neuralgia, bruxism, burning mouth syndrome, heart pounding, nausea, gastroparesis, very crampy diarrhea. Burning, itching, crawly skin. Poor sleep, overactive bladder. Neurologist said I now have "idiopathic small fiber peripheral polyneuropathy" yet will not admit the cold turkey benzo withdrawal following 29 years of nightly use had anything to do with it. I'm still praying the passage of time will heal my brain and body. Hope I will have some decent years coming soon. 🙏

[@jamiedibble5000]

I don't think there is enough information about Ativan withdrawal. Im so glad you put this on youtube thank you..

[@ericcurry-pitcher5037]

My great friend killed himself last week(6-19-17).he was battling this exact thing all they did was give more pills. 8hrs from refill. He couldn't take it anymore. He took his own life. He was a Marine,no matter your strenth we all need help. He wasn't suicidal, just a weak moment, now he's gone. His parents, kids, friends, all of us are full of questions,My god something has to be done. I also am going back and forth, I'm scared, I can get off but can't stay off. Dr. need to listen.

[@BenzoBrains]

Eric Curry-Pitcher I'm so sorry to hear this. I'm sure your friend was just over come by the chemical storm that is benzo withdrawal. You'll be ok because you have better information. watch my tapering video on my channel, follow the links below my videos to the websites and support groups and you will find out how to safely and humanely get yourself off these drugs whether or not your doctor listens. Make your story a success story for your friend and his family.

[@ericcurry-pitcher5037]

Benzo Brains Thx. Your vids are helpful. I am able to get off of the benzo's (the worst most horrid thing ever)For some stupid reason(my addiction), I can't stay off regardless of my best efforts and knowledge. I feel so horrible for so long. I sometime's need a couple hours of feeling well. I figured the Benzo pain would just never go away. I just can't see doing years like this. There is nothing wrong with me, yet for the most part I am completely debilitated W.T.F.I appreciate your encouragement. I wish you the best, and continued success.

[@BenzoBrains]

Eric Curry-Pitcher thanks just remember if you're taking a benzo as prescribed you're not addicted you're dependent. it's a totally different course of treatment for dependency vs addiction

[@georgesoros8589]

he committed suicide, therefore he was suicidal

[@36paris]

My mum is going through this as well as recovering from electro-shock therapy. She’s gone from being a highly functioning, hardworking human to being completely disabled. She was just diagnosed by my uncle, who is a neurologist, as having sensory ganglionopathy, which is a bit like chronic pain syndrome. I was also taking 2-3 2mg Xanax for 9 years, and stopped taking it 18 months ago; cold turkey with zero side effects or withdrawal symptoms. I can’t explain why that is and I’m NOT suggesting anyone else do the same because you might not be so lucky. But it might help anyone who is too scared to start tapering to know that it might not be this bad if you do it right. Everyone is different. Just give it a go and get off these horrible drugs. The longer you wait, the harder it will be.

[@natechaloux5436]

You got so lucky. Once i even start tapering down from clonezepam.. Only .5 mgs 3 xs a day. I get severe symptoms. I cannot function in work settings or barely get out of bed. Im not sure how to stop safely bc it hurts so bad! Been trying for years and my Dr.. The Psyche guy...is oblivious. He switched me to this drug 4 years ago and now im stuck in a never ending nightmare. I hate him for prescribing me this shit. These comoanys are aware of this and so are the drs. They all should be held accountable.

[@ortobio-autosufficienza]

Thanks very much Jocelyn, finally clarity on this iatrogenic disease. A hug for you.

[@NCSparkyone]

Yep, I survived that crap. Been healed about 12 or 13 years now thank God. I honestly don't like to think about it. It was horrific. Found info online via Ashton manual and crossed to Valium and did it. It was hell but doable. Back when I was doing it there wasn't so many online things like your videos at least not that I knew. Keep up the good work. 😎

[@NCSparkyone]

@@sangeetalambh6389 fatigue yes. Mostly I had de-realization that I recall. I kept working. I honestly can't exactly recall anymore at this point. That's a good thing. 👍😎 Know that you'll be ok because you will. Keep going

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@NCSparkyone How rr uu now

[@NCSparkyone]

@@sangeetalambh6389 perfectly fine, have been for many many years.

[@sangeetalambh6389]

How many years u take benzos

[@sangeetalambh6389]

@@NCSparkyone how old r u friend

[@paullangton-rogers2390]

Spot on and great way of explaining the problem from a sufferers prospective and the sheer scale of the problem. It is an illness after being medicated and withdrawing for sure and needs to be treated and recognized as such but its not. Most doctors are clueless they sometimes even just stop prescribing with no taper. The problem is caused because Benzodiazepines down regulate the brains GABA receptors. A real physical change takes place in the brain which could be considered medically as brain damage. Why arent we suing the pharmas who made these drugs?? There should be a massive class action lawsuit. Many of us have careers, marriages, lives ruined due to these drugs.

[@irishsid13]

I've gotten down to 2 bars per day... I've been tapering for a long time and I'm still at 4 mg per day, went through it cold turkey for 10 days once and thought I was going to die... Videos like this do help out. It's nice to know, even though it sucks, that there are others going through the same shit. And Jocelyne you are just beautiful. :-)

[@TopNotchStoner]

This hits home for me. I was prescribed 10mg of alprazolam PER DAY for years, before I decided to start tapering off. I had numerous seizures and ended up in the ER a few times, just from the withdrawal symptoms. Benzos withdrawal is some of the most dangerous withdrawal a person can experience, along with alcohol, because they botch act on GABA receptors, based on my understanding. But yeah, benzo withdrawal and alcohol withdrawal are the most dangerous withdrawals, and can even be fatal. That's just talking about the withdrawal. So far, I've cut down from 10mg of alprazolam per day to 1mg of alprazolam per day, and it's been a LONG process. And thank you for making this video:)

[@TopNotchStoner]

I would also like to mention the fact that cannabis helped me taper off of alprazolam, and, as a bonus, I also quit smoking tobacco products on my first attempt(going on 2 years without cigarettes). Of course, the main reason I quit cigarettes was so I could spend the extra money on weed, but I also quit for my health, and I wouldn't have been able to do that without cannabis. Weed saved my life, quite literally.

[@TopNotchStoner]

Subbed, btw.

[@jjfrazzz]

I've seen people do this, and then they can't stop the pot without having panic attacks. It really isn't recommended for benzo w/d.

[@TopNotchStoner]

Jeri Tresler Why would I "stop the pot"? lol I'm gonna smoke until I die.

[@Kimmm1984]

I love your videos, very informative!! I didn't know that pain in my reproductive system could be due to the withdrawel, so glad you shared it! My lower back hurts so must and I constantely feel like I'm getting my period. There absolutely needs to be more awarness and information about this, not knowing creates so much pain and anxiety. Love from the Netherlands!

[@lokee7]

Thank you for this video. Good one for disbelieving doctor.

[@becausekittenspaint1946]

BWS is what I pray to Yahweh that I don't have! 13 years on Lorazepam has done enough. At 9 months benzo free now I have all over muscle weakness & stiffness that makes walking difficult some days. It comes & goes. DP is almost nonexistent but lasted for weeks while tapering the 1st few months out of 15 dry cutting. My GABA receptors are up regulating but it's a slow process. I have a small hiatal hernia that was subdued for many years by the benzo. Healing does happen but don't expect to be who you were after tapering. You'll get much of yourself back, be stronger emotionally, be able to face anything because you survived tapering. I'm losing weight sort of rapidly but it could be due to the hernia. I don't want to think I have BWS & am happier & have more peace in life than ever before yet am reminded daily of what 13 years on a benzo really does. I survived a forced CT in 2012 for 2 weeks but reinstated not knowing what benzos did...tolerance withdrawals hit hard in May of 2016 so I knew I had to taper.

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Because kittens how r u now

[@UserHunca]

Best explanation of this, ever. Thank you.

[@georgeseif102]

If it weren't for courses I took in chemical dependency I would be dead. Even the knowledge that this to will pass helped me it was the most terrifying thing I've ever went through and I kicked methadone which seemed like a walk in the park compared to benzodiazepines. Horrible drug to withdraw from. Thanks for the awesome breakdown. It took slightly over a year for my own hell to subside.

[@BenzoBrains]

I'm glad you're on the other side of this now. Many people say the same, that their experience with benzos is far worse than any other withdrawal

[@wolfdragongunn4121]

Hi, it is so good to know I'm not going through this alone. I been on ativan for most of my life now. I am slowly tappering off now. Yes it is scary cause one of my worst fears is death. I am 43 have alot of heath problems i have diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, pancreatits, asma,tachycardia with palpation, adhd,seizures, i was born a blue baby, hart mur mur, and painc and anxiety disorder, d.i.d,schizophrenia, and more. I'm a self harmer and violent, i feel like im going insane but i keep telling myself it will get better it is the meds that are making you feel bad you can beat this your stronger than this. Im not giving up the fight i have kids and a loveing husband that need and love me so to everyone that is going through this your not alone and we can beat this together.

[@AS-ly8tr]

Wolf Dragon Gunn Hi Ms Wolf, i hope you got better.

[@ChadGraves-h3g]

@@wolfdragongunn4121if you are that bad off don't u think you'd be better off staying on them

[@RyanMartinRAM]

My mom shot herself... she used alprazolam for years and years and years and years....... miss you mom

[@BenzoBrains]

Ryan Martin I'm sorry to hear this. I know many people who were made suicidal by their benzodiazepine

[@MrsBee-uo2lc]

Ryan Martin your not alone, i too lost my mom to these pills. Keep talking about it and spread the truth. Im so sorry for your loss. Blessings and love.

[@hollycline2427]

THAT is so sad. I'm sorry she was treated so terribly

[@CliffMcLarnon]

So so sorry,what a wicked drug😑

[@traceyrychewhite6374]

Ryan Martin , I am so sorry for your loss. My sincere condolences go out to you. Every blessing to you.

[@lcagee]

Great video. I had horrible withdrawal after 7 days on Halcion. It was terrifying. It was in 1997 before the internet searches were possible. It took me a long time to figure out that it was a drug side effect, withdrawal. And I'm a medical doctor. It never occurred to me that 7 days on a drug could cause horrible withdrawal symptoms. Back then it was impossible to get information on this as the only things published came from the drug maker. So alot of doctors are unaware because of where they get their information. The drug maker glosses over the side effects. The users who experience the symptoms need to tell these stories. Ive learned a lot in the last 20 years that i was never taught in medical school. Doctors are often oblivious when patients experience side effects.

[@Jannietime1]

20 years on, 9 years off, still suffering with muscle and nerve pain in head, neck, shoulders, chest ... it's much better than it was but still debilitating

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Psgeanon how r u now frd

[@mulletsandmustaches8656]

What were you taking and how much ? These are important details

[@JohnDoe-ef4if]

That’s really something. 9 years off and that stuff is going on. I have been on for probably about 13 years. I am terrified. 2 MG Lorazepam twice a day. I hate my life.

[@deniselebeau9874]

Thank you Joselyn......I will hang onto those words and they will be my mantra. You are an Angel👼🏻

[@danieldowns8296]

Tried withdrawal in May 2019. From diazepam. I tapered down to half a mg. Suffering felt like it would never end.and it hasn't. I was overwhelmed with fear, I had a list of symptoms, I'd say the worse symptom was the fear, I was so convinced I was dying,I was calling ambulances every other night,only to be told that my vitals were ok. After 3 months a doctor offered me a 5mg valium to leave the hospital, then my gp carried on prescription of 2mg a day, I basically started to self medicate. I'd in May this yr I had a massive heart attack, I feel very ill these days, since the withdrawals in May 2019 my body and mind has changed, the fear is sat on my shoulders 24/7. My heart goes out to anyone suffering any benzodiazepine withdrawal symptom..

[@FEWGEE1]

Diazepam withdrawal really is god awful. I've detoxed off methadone, and that was hell on earth, but the benzos...

[@budgetjones1410]

Diazipam is the worst ever after prescribed them at 14/15 years old for 23 years prescribed 20-30mg daily but sometimes would take stupid amounts along with zopiclone mg daily took me 3 year to wean off them been Benzo free now for 3 years I can honestly say never felt so much like Shit these tablets took my life I’m 39 now and still having withdrawal and I can go on and on about how They’ve effected my nervous system , memory , physical health xxx

[@StarLifeVideography]

I never before commented on youtube. But i have to tell you that you're amazing. Thank you for the uploads and knowledge. I've seen at least 7 different doctors my disorder and its been a pain. From skin to mental health for my sever panic agoraphobia and insomnia. I have been taking benzos for 4 years now. i'm taking 3 times a day 1mg of klonpin. I have recently decided to taper off. I felt like i just had enough of not knowing why every time i eat foods with msg or anything i would break out or have a panic attack. i was soo limited to everything in life. I use to be very outgoing person. I dance. Deejayed. perform songs on stage. Shot video and photos. Now i can't even think. 4 years have been hell. I just wanna say thank you. I wish you had a fb or instagram or something else. All these other videos are depressing. No one that is going through this wanna hear and see what might happen and is or if. I am already playing mind games. I wanna see something positive solution.. So thank you.

[@BenzoBrains]

Hi I don't know if you've seen my other videos but I do have more under the playlist benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. I have there is the Benzo Buddies forum and there are actually several Facebook groups where people going through this can chat. It's definitely a necessity through this. I'm glad you found this helpful.

[@boydharris6940]

littlemissperfect i love your videos... i'm a 6 week user and c/t and 17.5 months out....

[@BenzoBrains]

Boyd Harris I hope you are starting to see some improvement. It really doesn't seem to matter how long you are on them. A cold turkey is a cold turkey and usually people see improvement aftee 18-24 months.

[@bobravenscraft5376]

Like other people say you help a lot please don't take this wrong I'm a man so your soft spoken and easy on the eyes perfect to help people through this I mean it as a sincere compliment

[@shellyann620]

Why are doctors not getting it? Why? You present to them the evidence yet they tell you it's your "anxiety" coming back??? The anxiety from withdrawal is NOT the same as the baseline anxiety. I know people who are going through the withdrawal anxiety and it is a form a anxiety that bring immense DOOM and GLOOM with MASSIVE rushes of cortisol or something-something because we don't know what it is really-that LAST and LAST and LAST for hours and sometimes days. You telling me that that is the patients anxiety coming back?

[@BenzoBrains]

+Shelly Ann That's a good question. I wish I could answer. I think part of the answer is a lack of recognition by the FDA and the pharmaceutical industry. I think the other part is indoctrination, dogma and an unwillingness to admit when you're wrong. I believe some of the youger doctors are more cautious but I find they are still ignorant about how to actually help someone harmed by benzos and most still believe SSRIs are the answer.

[@brainphelps1994]

because what happens during these youtube horror stories is not the norm

[@ericcurry-pitcher5037]

Brain Phelps But all to common and very real. People who are there get rid of your firearm's. This can get really wicked real fast. And as for Doctor's listen, read, re educate yourseves. I have a feeling so much of this is un avoidable, sadly I think they all ready know it. Why? Profit, that is why they let this continue.

[@hollycline2427]

I don't think they know what to do.

[@hollycline2427]

Shelley Ann You are 100 percent right

[@ebonic211187]

I wish you were my doctor! Your video really breaks it all down and has touched me deeply. I'm currently trying to taper my self off Clonazepam after blinding accepting this prescription from nurse practitioners at a behavioral health clinic of 0.5 Mgs twice a day over a 4 year period. I thought it was bad before the medication but I would much rather go back to the before. I've tapered myself down to 0.5 Mgs a day over a period of many months. Recently my girlfriend bought me a plane ticket to come see her for the week of Valentines day but I have developed a sever phobia for flying that I never had before. It's horrible! I'm having panic just thinking about the trip that is still a week away. I'm in Phoenix and she is in Oregon (2.5 hour flight) and even though she spent 300$ on my tickets I'm just going to drive instead. I'm constantly over worrying about everything. I'm not sure what to do to take it to the next step because every time I try to taper further as you know the pain is so bad. Thank you for the hope and knowledge. Any link that you can share with me to help me get thru this, I believe with your knowledge and understanding would be so helpful! Thanks again! Great video!

[@BenzoBrains]

the most helpful thing I can post is my video on tapering. a proper taper will help to alleviate a lot of unnecessary suffering kzbin.info/www/bejne/ZmO5goZ5psZpsKc joining a great support group is also one of the best things anyone going through this can do. it will help you know what's normal and see how other people cope with this illness. I like facebook benzo withdrawal support groups

[@ebonic211187]

+littlemissperfect I can't thank you enough. Thx again!

[@BenzoBrains]

+GetRight OrGetLeft you're welcome😊

[@benzodiazepineclassaction4079]

We love you!!! Well said!!

[@harleyv1969]

Thank you for doing this video and all your research, subscribed!

[@ringerheringa3052]

This says it all! Explained in a perfect way.

[@ringerheringa3052]

Thank you for this outstanding video. This is something the whole world should watch. I would very much like to know how you're doing at the moment. Are you fully recovered? I still have a long and lonely way to go, so could do with a message of hope from a recovered benzo victim. Thanks.

[@waynesmith419]

Very good video. I was taking 125mg a day of Diazepam and over 4 months reduced to 20mg, but couldn't go any further alone. I decided to go into detox and over 17 days of total torture was reduced from 30mg (which my daily dose had increased to by the time of admission) to nothing. That was just over a month ago and the levels of anxiety have been insane. I have just had to force myself to do the mundane. I feel I have perpetual vertigo and constant ringing in my brain. My perception of noises are of the charts and everything is just too much of a hassle. Even if I wanted to start taking those damn tablets again ,the process of getting them is too much drama. I was functioning at a very level before all this and it's extremely depressing how debilitating this is. I empathise with anyone who is or have gone through such an experience

[@BenzoBrains]

Wayne Smith I'm sorry you are experiencing this. it will take time but you will imorove. I wish you a full recovery

[@christinaloza8722]

I hope you are feeling better

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Wayne how r u now

[@ChadGraves-h3g]

Alot of us that are complaining about this, sought out the medication in the first place. We need to take responsibility for our own actions

[@BenzoBrains]

@@ChadGraves-h3g accountability is an important first step. It's also important to acknowledge that we were working with whatever limited knowledge we had at the time mixed in with whatever misinformation we may have accepted at the hands of those we trusted to be arbiters of truth.

[@ChadGraves-h3g]

@@BenzoBrains my Dr. specifically told me to only take them when I really needed them. That's how they are meant to be used PRN

[@Kalina1982]

So happy I found you. Thank you for being a voice. I have been fighting to get off of Klonopin. I’m in hell. I c/t’d back in 2015 by my doctor (not only c/t’d Klonopin but also Effexor and Gabapentin). I went back on them a year later because I was not better. I had no clue back then. It has been 2.5 years on this round, 2mg a day. Sometimes I wonder if this hell is worth it but I keep fighting. I fight for my daughter and husband. Big hugs to you! 🤗

[@sangeetalambh6389]

Kara how r u now

[@travisbriggs3297]

This is the best benzo withdrawal video. I've been on Klonopin for 7yrs, everything you explained as far as symptoms I've had at one point or another. I'm currently managing at 3mg a day.. tapering down seems horrific to me, i get terrible nightmares. All sorts of negative mental and physical effects.

[@BenzoBrains]

+Travis Briggs the nightmares are referred to as rebound dreaming. I never realized how dreamless my sleep was until I started tapering and had the crazy nightmares. It's like your body is trying to make up for years of not dreaming all at once and they're so powerful! but they will ease up over time I promise. I hope you are in a support group and getting some good tapering advice.

[@travisbriggs3297]

Actually i'm not. I am still currently on my 3mg a day. So i'm fine now, tapering and the withdrawing that will come along will it scares me to death.

[@BenzoBrains]

No need to be scared if you go into this fully informed. I'm a big fan of the facebook benzo withdrawal support groups. www.benzobuddies.org is also a great place to get the information you need. I see people able to be much more functional, suffering less, if they start out their tapers correctly from the get go.

[@mikeruss]

Well done J.

[@ComeAlivewithMK]

Thank you for such a thorough and instructional presentation

[@oldtc3615]

What's frustrating is the very long list of doctors I have seen over the years and none of them recognize any of this. A few mentioned higher risk of dementia but refuse to consider protracted withdraw. I was bed bound with POTS and also unable to handle any new stimulus from any of my senses. I am a lot better now but have a long way to go yet. I still struggle with breathing as my chest feels like MS band, washing my hair and the sensations of that is difficult. Despite my improvements doctor still insist that I should go on new meds. It's the meds that caused this and it's really sad the healthcare providers do nothing but gaslight people that are damaged.

[@MarkTraynor-mw6om]

I had a doctor practically scream at me that there was no such thing, even though I have a neurologist's report that clearly says my diagnosis is protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome.

[@johnward7340]

First of all. Congratulations on a great presentation. Your articulation and vocabulary indicates a high level of intellectual functioning. I was diagnosed with cancer a number of years ago. I was in the hospital for chemotherapy for about 6 months and snowed with Benzodiazepine. When released', no one told be about withdrawals. I was messed up for four years and feeling terrible. I thought that my cancer had returned. Little did I realize that most all of it was because of the addiction.

[@BenzoBrains]

there are others in my facebook group who were also put on benzodiazepines as part of their treatment and suffered as you have or are still suffering. it truly is adding insult to injury to put you through benzo hell after fighting for your life like that. I'm very sorry to hear this. how are you now?

[@garysimone4977]

One of the best vid I have seen And coming. Off K so true !!!!

[@buckie48192]

Just wanna say thank you for such informative video's on benzo's..your one smart cookie.!! ☺😀

[@hunterboy6141973]

I cant tell what is what anymore. I went through the most devastating breakup of my life and couldn't sleep. I ended up on 12 different drugs in four months. on and off four different benzos. I have been off for seven months. my heart doesn't heal. I can still hardly sleep for a year. the drugs made me crazy. my thoughts are horrible. the panic is unbearable. I am in Panama now and don't see how I will make it. it is hard to believe that I am still having withdrawals but I must be because I am not myself. not even close and happiness is a distant memory. This is a nightmare beyond description. I cant even figure out how to get onto Benz buddies. good diet is impossible for me here now. I cant imagine another six moths of this. I don't know how to get through another day. Will it ever end?!?!

[@BenzoBrains]

Benzo buddies was a little difficult for me too at the beginning. Maybe you could try one of these facebook groups instead. I found them much easier to navigate. facebook.com/groups/benzorecovery/ facebook.com/groups/Beatingbenzos/ You can make it through. It's ok if you're not eating perfect. We seem to heal in spite of our best efforts. You will heal.

[@CliffMcLarnon]

Thank you so much Joselynm!Your an Angel!

[@TheStacylee12]

I've been familiar with so much of this... some of it was almost an epiphany. God Bless, and thank you.

[@riverhealing]

Thank you for this validation.

[@jprints1]

So good. So well articulated. Thank you.

[@NolanHawkeyeAnthony]

If I did not have my family there is no way I could have quit benzodiazepines

[@chilipepper71]

Best friend just passed away as a result of acute benzo withdrawal. RIP brother.

[@BenzoBrains]

I'm sorry 😞

[@Ndags23]

I’m so sorry

[@louisscd]

God bless you, I'm so unwell with this. It's like being in a nightmare. Should I take gaba whilst tapering off diazepam?

[@BenzoBrains]

Hi the Ashton manual generally discourages using GABA agonist drugs and supplements while tapering. Sorry it's so bad right now 😔

[@alisonbrennen7018]

I have just medically tapered off of Gabapentin, ( last pill Aug 2018). I have been on Gabapentin and Tamazepam for 14 years. I knew nothing about the harm that these pills can cause. After researching Gabapentin, I was so horrified that I went to a Compound Chemist and started a taper. After 20 weeks I was off of Gabapentin but the the withdrawal has never ended. I missed Christmas this year because I was so sick. The scary thing is the Compound Chemist said getting of the Gabapentin was easy but the Tamazepam was another story. He stated that the Tamazepam would be very difficult. Well, if the withdrawal I am feeling for Gabapentin is easy, I cannot imagine what the withdrawal from Tamazepam will be like. I am so scared. Unless I get off the Tamazepam I am still damaging my Gaba receptors. 14 years and not once did any professional question this. In these 14 years I have become Agoraphobic, socially isolated and been diagnosed with Complex PTSD and DID. It makes me wonder if the drugs helped this or caused it. Thank you for this You Tube video, I feel so alone, but you have shown me this is not true.

[@BenzoBrains]

I'm sorry you're so sick right now. I hope the temazepam isn't too difficult to taper. It's a fairly weak benzo . If my experience with others has taught me correctly, I would say it's better to taper the benzo first and then the Gabapentin. They affect different receptor and some people find the Gabapentin helps to dampen the symptoms of benzo withdrawal. However now that you're dealing solely with the benzo, the best way to lessen the severity of withdrawal is to develop a taper plan based on all the info in my videos that are on my tapering playlist, including this one. Make your plan, take it slow and you'll make it.

[@baby.lemonade5864]

how did it go? Are you off the temazepam? a family member just was cut off, no taper. he has arachnoiditis, and severe chronic pain, and his doc says she can no longer prescribe the Benzo with pain meds. worried he might have permanent damage from being cut off. it's 4 days now, pain is worse wondering if the worsening pain is part of the syndrome. 15 years of temazepam, she says there should be no withdrawal. I am worried.

[@dianethomas7149]

Thank you! My daughter has been on one form or another of bentos for close to five years. There is a serious opiated problem in our area, and the government is finally getting involved. They have no choice when a community has to rent a mobile morgue due to the amount of deaths from drug overdoses in one weekend. I seriously believe they also need to get involved in these two es of drugs as well. They have robbed my daughter of quality of life. I am on a mission to try to help either regulate or stop these drugs from being used. I watched a documentary on psychiatry. Years ago they were giving lobotomies to alcoholics in psychiatric institutions. There was even a lobotomy mobile. How ironic that they were not even done in the correct area of the brain. Showed examples of various ways psychiatrists were torturing mental patients throughout the years. Is this not also a form of torture. It has to stop...period. This medication RUINS life’s.

[@georgesoros8589]

Bitch, worry about your own life. I'm so sick of people trying to tell others what to do and how to live their life. Fuck off.

[@derekredwood7121]

Thanks for posting. Ativan was very difficult for me to quit. Terrible withdrawal. Thankfully I haven't taken any in about 4 years.

[@KizzaQuiz11]

I just wrote a huge post, and then internet explorer closed. Grrrrr. I'll rewrite it soon, but thank you very much for the info!

[@stevestarr6395]

Yes I’ve been seeing a lot of these Benzo stories and wondering how it will go with me being put on these for GAD/PTSD?!

[@BenzoBrains]

I know that benzos are contraindicated for PTSD. Not sure about GAD but they aren’t shown to be clinically effective past 4 weeks . I know my kids benefitted very much from an intensive outpatient daily therapy program for GAD/OCD even with some PTSD in my son - there is so much healing that can take place when we address it one step at a time rather than applying a panacea. Healing is hard work and takes time but it is possible! Best wishes ( also if you haven't seen my video on healing, despite any religious beliefs you may find this helpful kzbin.info/www/bejne/ipvNZaV6fJJ7fK8si=x8JKqgEAPC4TO5mq

[@stevestarr6395]

@@BenzoBrains Definitely work for GAD and can work for some of the anxiety associated with PTSD but not the whole picture.

[@absenteechildhood8172]

My first and worst system is cannot breathe wel. Terrifying first time.

[@carolcarol3938]

I was on Xanax a number of years ago and was thankfuuly weaned off fairly slowly....but still suffered through the process. Fast forward years and again I found myself taking Klonopin....which I've now been taking for years. Currently I'm working on tapering off Efexxor, and when that's completed (it'll take a long time too....down from 225mg to 75mg)....I'll look at tackling the benzo once that's done. So many, if not all, psychotropic drugs are poison. Thanks for your informative, supportive and educational video.

[@Treespore42012]

You have some great insight! I have been given klonopin half of .5mg twice a day as needed. I have severe GAD, panic disorder and agoraphobia. I have been taking this medication for about 3 months or so. I don't know if my GP ever plans to increase the amount of suddenly drop me at any time. The thought of that worries me a lot considering he warned me about taking this every single day. I had gone other routes to address my issues and only found many failures. I ended up in the hospital twice because of the other medications so this was a last resort measure...should I just tough it out and learn healthier ways to manage? Should I stick to my current approach or only keep it for emergency panic attacks? At least twice a week I have moments that I can't escape from and I have PTSD level panic from being in the hospital so I cave in

[@geek78]

Awww your so sweet.I hope I can help people as you are one day.

[@criceny]

Thank you so much for this video. Hope is the main thing I am holding on to right now. 1 month cold turkey (no choice) off klonopin and it is difficult. I want to go back to work one day. I have to keep reminding myself I am worth it. I start DBT therapy soon. Thank you. Hope is big component of recovery.

[@colonelangus2596]

This girl vis stunningly smart, beautiful beyond words. May God heAl you pretty girl!! Your smile, your face, your honesty totally blows me away,!! Get well sweetheart,get well. I am in tears looking at you!!

[@_._._._._._._._]

Stalker

[@leo3680]

Thank you for bringing some light to this experience. I am under 0.25 mg of xanax twice a day and I tapered down to half in the morning and 0.25 at night. After 4 weeks I am still feeling terrible and the healthcare system seems not caring about it so I don't feel safe on top of everything I am experiencing. Thank you all for the success stories, they give me hope.

[@BenzoBrains]

It sounds like you tapered pretty rapidly. You might want to check out my tapering playlist. There is some info there that could help you stabilize a bit and feel a bit better

[@magdalindeque5836]

I am also tapering from Xanax, 2.5 mg per day split into 4 doses. I have been tapering for 4 months now, only managed to cut a quarter by now. My most irritating, and disabling symptom is severe leg, arm and internal tremors. Bloodpressure spikes, dizziness and some panic attacks. It feels so lonely and emotionally draining. I am dry cutting, and doses are not always exact

[@travisbriggs3297]

Love your video. Great job.

[@marytrompeter5710]

Thank you!! this video validated my feelings. im not crazy. im not a drug addict. what about seizures; mainly partial complex when off cold turkey...I have been having constant partial complex seizures...my medication was taken...I finally got a new rx 2 weeks later. i am still experiencing terrible side affects. depersonalition, simple complex seizures, loss of memory, words...unable to do normal everyday functions. O have my medication back. why am I still suffering...why? this is the second time ive gone xold turkey my xanax 6 mgs a day for 3 yrs. the first time, i had no clue what i was doing i just wanted off...i threw my whole bottle away; checked into rehab...where i suffered greatly. i came back onto my full dosage...and the symptoms of withdrawls were gone! this time...they wont...I cant overtake my medication...but the normal dosage isnt helping with the withdrawls...why am i having withdrawls omg?

[@BenzoBrains]

Mary Trompeter you're not stabilizing out this time because you have kindled. you would need a higher dose to stabilize out. I don't know how often you take the Xanax each day but you may find some relief in breaking up your dose so you're taking smaller doses more frequently, every 3-4 hours. if you can find a doctor who is willing, you may also want to try crossing over to an equivalent amount of valium, which will remain in your system longer than xanax. this might also help. this isn't about drug craving, this is about a body that has become so dependent on a prescription medication that it could potentially kill you to not treat it properly. you need to find a doctor who understands this and is willing to prescribe what you need to stabilize you, minimize the seizure activity, and eventually taper you off very very slowly.

[@debinem7721]

Thank you for posting this very informative video. I was cut off ativan when I moved to a different state (NM). Doctors would not prescribe it- even at a detox. I suffered for 2 years. I thought of suicide every day for over a year. The worst waking nightmare, physical tremors, depression, severe anxiety, terrible insomnia. I thought I would be like that forever. 4 years later I am better- but still have ptsd from the experience.

[@BenzoBrains]

Healing from the trauma was a big part of my healing journey

[@MonacoRocha]

hello love your videos, I was on under 0.5 clonazepam for about 15 years . take a night before bed only ,never during the day ' I started tapering oct.1 2019 it is now may 4 2020 7 months later and I am passed the 1/2 way mark 0.25.. so far so good a little insomnia but nothing I can't handle.. the rest of the less than 0.25 I will taper much slower ,maybe 10 months... wish me luck

[@younginvestor5627]

wich method do you used

[@aaronmaloney8282]

my doctors tapered me off in 10 days after a 3 year Valium addiction & told me I'd be fine . 7 months later & im still struggling! So thanku doctor, much help 😭

[@BenzoBrains]

Sargent Mahoney that's brutal I'm sorry. I've made a couple of videos where I discuss how much diet has helped me, eating lower carb, more proteins and fats under a doctors supervision was like night and day for me

[@aaronmaloney8282]

Benzo Brains . I realised today speaking to my doctor that they don't actually know what the dangers of benzodiazepines are , they more than happy to write a prescription out for patients, & when it comes to the patient in serious withdrawal they don't want to know . I will definitely check out some more of your videos , thanks for the reply sweetie 👍🇬🇧

[@mgal6234]

Thank you for this...going through the hell of bws now. I will do this, then I am done with psych meds.

[@danm3195]

I thought coming off methadone was horrendous. .until I came off diazepam after being on them for 10 years.diazepam WAS SHEER HELL

[@cloud9181]

Same with suboxone benzodiazepines was harder it was Hell!

[@cindysalt6328]

I have been on Xanax for 40 years due to an anxiety and panic disorder. It never affected me in a negative way. But yes the withdrawals are pure torture. If you can do without the medicine do it. Thankyou Jocelyn 🦋🦋🦋🙏

[@BenzoBrains]

You're welcome

[@TommyTucker77]

I had a cold turkey effect from one dose of point of reuturn's almond oil rx compound of ativan. Also vodka liquid version felt like cold turkey for me and others. Even whole milk version same. So now I'm stuck on cut and hold again. Liquid measuring is so much easier to deal with and reduce from. But I'm an ultra rapid metabolizer of an valium related enzyme. Yes doctors need to stop treating everyone like a criminal, even at major universities. Sad. Just embarrassing. Hoping to get finished without anymore horror. Pray for me. I am disabled by late stage lyme, and the last parts of valium. Thank you.

[@BenzoBrains]

Good luck I'm sorry it's been so difficult a journey.

[@Soloist1983]

The burning/itching skin is horrible, other than that, I had some insomnia and myoclonal jerks when I try to sleep sometimes. Other than that, most of my other symptoms have disappeared within a month, here is to hoping the next month is better, only those 2 troubling symptoms remain

[@BenzoBrains]

Wow that's pretty great! Best wishes for a fast and full recovery

[@donnidehart2177]

Thank you for sharing this. My 30 year old son who has autism and is non- verbal, was tapered off after years of daily use. He was taking 3-4 mg. A day. Mostly 3 mg. He is non-verbal, but I began to notice some nervous symptoms and he really wanted his afternoon and sometimes his morning dose. He's been completely off for 4 weeks now. His behavior has become unpredictable, sometimes aggressive, he looks as though his skin is crawling. He can't sleep, he has lost a lot of weight but is eating pretty normally. He can't focus and it's if he doesn't listen or engage with others at all. He is also slapping his chest, rubbing his hands until the skin blisters and bleeds, etc. we are giving him DoTerra "serenity capsules" and benedryl to bring some comfort. And using various DoTerra oils to calm him. He also takes melatonin at night. These only bring a small relief. I called his neurologist because he seems to be getting worse rather than better. The Neurologist called in a prescription for more low-dose clonazepam. I will not put that back into his system & prolong his suffering. He also has a rash on both of his knees and his upper back. Have you ever heard of That? Your video has helped me understand what he may be feeling. Thank you.

[@BenzoBrains]

Donni DeHart yes that all sounds normal, many kids with autism and seizures are on benzos. How fast was his taper? My friend has slowly been weaning her son now for a couple of years.

[@NolanHawkeyeAnthony]

I agree with nearly all you said except the cold turkey vs taper. I think cold turkey is the only way to quit a drug if one can handle it. Tapering still causes discomfort and it just prolongs the suffering imo rather than going cold turkey and begin the healing process

[@BenzoBrains]

It depends. Some people have very gentle and tolerable tapers. Cold turkey can cause massive damage and even death

[@NolanHawkeyeAnthony]

@@BenzoBrains your correct. I love the content nonetheless. But for me, who did both, CT and taper, honestly the downside and potentially negative consequences of ct were absolutely worth it. If I was handing out public advice I would not necessarily advise CT and I totally understand why someone I. Your position would not recommend it. Keep up the great work!

[@smoothjazz1954]

Thank you, I went down on my dosage of Xanax Er. Been on it for 18 years! Don’t feel good. I can’t imagine getting off, but hopefully will someday. 😊

[@BenzoBrains]

Did you reduce with a smaller dose prescription or by cutting? Cutting ER will be a problem as it will mess with the ER function, dumping the whole dose into your system all at once. So if that's the case it would make sense that it feels awful

[@bumcheek7]

They say when you get on them your anxiety etc. Is a "10" and that when "20" when you come off - WTF?

[@BenzoBrains]

bumcheek7 benzos have been shown to increase anxiety with long term use. How much it increases depends on individual response to the medication. For some it's 20, for others it's like 2 million

[@kelliraes]

Thank you dearly for this video I mean it. I am almost a month out of stopping Klonopin, 6.5 mg a night and for the past ten years. I quit cold turkey and even think I had a seizure. I was abusing other drugs and alcohol at the time I am seventeen days clean off of alcohol and the other drugs I still have shaking and my short term memory is shit I have numb fingers and have lost 3/4 of my hair. My bottom half is numb 😶 So no feeling in my rectum and vagina I have a tingling sensation in my spine and my back itches terribly Pain and no sleeping. Ringing in the ears Any yelling or confrontation sends me into a frenzy The list goes on and on I am also worried that I have done irreversible brain damage 😑🤐 This video is very helpful and I can't thank you enough

[@BenzoBrains]

Kelli Spaulding I'm sorry I know it's bad right now but know that the brain is constantly changing and making new connections. You may find you heal.more than expected

[@PA16803]

Thank you for this video I greatly appreciate it

[@BenzoBrains]

You're welcome

[@Mrnomadnworb]

Slow and steady

[@aaronmaloney8282]

according to my doctors & mental health doctor , benzodiazepine withdrawal last no more than 2-3 months! At first my doctor said I'd be fine in 10 days !!!!! Wot a load of rubbish, I've had to rely on these people to help me thru this , imagine being told that withdraw feeling i was getting is nothing to do with the benzodiazepines .. honestly, absolutely fucking clueless, welcome to great Britain 🇬🇧 😭

[@BenzoBrains]

Welcome to the world of ignorant doctors

[@jojojeep1]

smart and , well you know.

[@traceyrychewhite6374]

I've been on 6-8 mgs of Xanax and 10 -15 mgs of Ambien for the last 23 years. Also, I've been on 16 mgs of subs since 2004. My Dr got very sick and had to close his office. So, I ended up going to a Psychiatrist where my therapist is. These people are hell bent on taking me off of my meds, simply because they are addictive. I have gone to jail for 9 days and was not getting any of my medicine. I know that if they take me off, I will either die or go crazy. When I was in jail I was hallucinating something fierce. Both audio and visual. I don't want to go off of my meds, but for them, it's a CYA thing and that is it. Thank you for your channel.

[@BenzoBrains]

Tracey Ryche White I'm so sorry you're in this situation

[@traceyrychewhite6374]

Benzo Brains , Thank you. You are an amazing woman and I'm so grateful for your channel. My Xanax doesn't work anymore, but I know if I go off of them, I will die. God bless you. You just named everything that has happened to me. Thank you so much. You are very educated, on this subject. I'm so glad I found you. You know more than my doctor. I am broken. 💔

[@StefanKonstantinovic]

Jocelyn, you probably do not know, how great and positive impact u have made for stranger like me, I will tell you just this for now, you saved my life literally saved my life. God bless you and your wonderful family, you great beautiful human being. p.s benzo community if I could (someone who stop after 8 long years of extreme abuse of Ativan, you could stop using benzos as well just follow instruction from Jocelyn). Jocelyn thank you, thank you😪😪😪

[@BenzoBrains]

You're welcome. Congratulations on being benzo free!

[@hiraymondduarte9176]

thank you for this video. helpful for us who chose to quit.

[@hollycline2427]

Thank you again, for explain this superbly. I will use this to show my children one day, to understand this hell I have lost everything and was reinstated and it was worse. I am now 6 weeks off after 8 months daily What a long, strange journey. Bed ridden most of TIME after 6 years on and off. Support is detrimental yet hard to find as most people, do not want to hear this, they also are afraid to go off their pills. I know I was. My sponsor said we aren't sober on these, boy is that an understatement. I was not myself the whole 6 years. And you are spot on about all the new meds and diagnosis Dr's say are now going on. When it's so clearly these meds causing it. I'm just grateful I survived this long. Thank you , 💖💖

[@hollycline2427]

To end with a positive note, it is a slow process and I believe our bodies truly strive for homeostasis. Meaning the cells desire to rebuild without synthetic med help. I now use healthy eating and much more health conscious, I'm present for my family. I try to be honest and share my experiences at meetings, lots of people have been on these recovering from alcohol, these meds are almost identical in nature, no wonder the relapse rates. I'm glad I fought for truth and justice, this is happening and we will see this worsen before it gets addressed. I am so upset to read how people are killing themselves, I feel it's mostly because of the fact we have zero feelings on and off these meds.

[@davelowe1977]

Just over 5 years ago, I recovered from two addictions: alcohol and diazepam to which I had been co-morbidly dependent for around 10 years. The physical withdrawal from alcohol took around 5 days with chlordiazepoxide and was the single most difficult thing I have ever done in my life. It was akin to having a continuous panic attack for the full 5 days, and to a more limited extent, another two weeks afterwards. The withdrawal by tapering of the diazepam followed, and took around 6 weeks to taper to zero. It was another month or so for the metabolites to be excreted to the extent that a sensitive urine test showed a negative result. During much of this time I suffered from depersonalisation and a feeling of unreality. However, as time went on, I became more mentally strong and after probably 3 - 4 months I was in a better frame of mind than ever before in my life. I offer this advice to anyone considering the use of benzodiazepines or alcohol as a method of coping with life's stresses: don't. If you feel the need to take these mind altering substances just to get by, then there is something seriously wrong in your life. You will be far better off changing the root cause of your problems rather than attempting to patch over the cracks with these substances. All that will achieve is a temporary solution and you will, in time, then have to deal both with the original issue and an addiction which is at least twice as difficult.

[@cloud9181]

Thank you for more information. Im 2 months off 5 year benzodiazepine and severe drug addiction heroin, methamphetamine u name it i cold turkied the lot except alcohol, kicked suboxone also, I found benzodiazepine and Alcohol is the hardest to psychological and physically to get off. Thank you your info is great best ive seen on KZbin.

[@thomasn3882]

I was on Ativan on and off from 1997-2010. I was up to 3mg per day. One bright morning in January 2010, I decided that I had enough. I felt like a drug addict, and I wanted to get off of Ativan. So I took myself off of Ativan, without consulting my psychiatrist. I knew that this was dangerous, but frankly I saw my psychiatrist as being my enemy about this topic. Her job is to prescribe drugs for Big Pharma, so it would not be in her interests for me to not take drugs anymore. I had grown weary and cynical enough to view her that way. I took myself off of the drug, by weaning off at a rate of dropping one mg per week. It was a horrible experience for a month, I laid in bed trembling for a full month in January 2010. But I got through it, and I haven't taken Ativan ever again. I don't think that I have suffered any permanent or long lasting after effects from taking Ativan. But maybe I am wrong, as I do have trouble concentrating and reading from time to time. I finally left the psychotherapy industry altogether a few months ago, in February 2018. I lost 27 years of my life to the psychotherapy boondoggle; allowing myself to be evaluated and judged by doctors and therapists who were crazier than I was. IMHO, benzodiazepines are nothing but street drugs. They don't cure any illness or condition. Benzodiazepines are recreational drugs on a par with any street drug. They have no therapeutic value and they shouldn't be legal.

[@BenzoBrains]

Thomas Neuberger wow, I know it wasn't easy, but you should consider yourself lucky, being able recover after a few weeks of withdrawal. I'm glad you're free of these medications now and I hope your quality of life has improved

[@thomasn3882]

Thank you, Benzo Brains. I should add that I am not recommending that anyone else should try to drop off of Ativan as abruptly as I did. It was reckless and dangerous of me to go from 3mg a day to nothing in the span of a month or so. I made that move out of desperation and panic. When I finally did tell my doctor about it afterwards, she told me that I could have shocked my body into having a heart attack by dropping off so quickly. But I am glad to have benzodiazepines out of my life for good now.

[@garysimone4977]

Loooong. Tine no hear...how you doing, i bet life b is awsome just awsome. Love to hear a update, i get all of us would

[@polycrase]

It IS understood and recognized by the medical community, but it does not behoove these criminals to admit to their crimes of poisoning and ruining people's lives. Period!