Why Benzos Make Your Anxiety Worse

This video provides a brief overview of the adjectives that can be used to describe benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction. It covers terms such as cognitive impairment, anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
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[@messiah_genes1117]

Benzos are some of the worst drugs to come off. Doctors need to warn patients about these complications before being put on them.

[@edie4321]

Yeah, like they did opiates??? My doctor told me opiates weren't addictive, and went on to prescribe two different benzos, Adderalll, and Cymbalta to go with them. I'm blessed to be alive. I ran from western medicine when they had the audacity to act like it was me that was a problem. I am now inflammation free, and my brain neurological, and nervous system still struggle to recover after seven years. They do need to warn us, but I don't think they are allowed too. Their job is to give out drugs.

[@MathewWeaver73]

You’re exactly right, they tell you all of the great things they will do, but NEGLECT to mention what’s going to happen when you want or need to get off of them.😊

[@mrsmacca126]

Dr. Marks- I wish you were nearby and taking new patients.

[@hooywamd00pe95]

I used lorazepam very sporadically. Started out with a quarter of a pill, and it was an amazing relief. Despite using it only few times a month, with sometimes not taking them for a months at a time, the relief was never the same even when i took a whole pill.

[@christopherdavies2285]

All mental health. meds can cause dependency and withdrawal. But no mental health meds work on me anymore, lorazepam on a good day works OK. But there isn't a non benzo medication ive tried that helps insomnia and/or anxiety and I've tried pretty much everything

[@renee7407]

I’ve been on this stuff for 32 years, I’m 54. My 20’s were destroyed with other horrible antidepressants and anxiety meds. I took a break while I had my two children but resumed and I’m a prisoner again. Too late to stop. The brain fog is awful but the withdrawal is worse, so here I am.

[@user-hq5ps7dx7d]

Same here. But if u came of for the pregnancy u can do it again . Right 🙏 its a hell ..

[@ceritapulliam696]

I've been on it 30 years. I definitely have BIND. This is terrible😢. I'm very scared😒

[@therapywithisabel]

Same here except it can't be too late. Something will come up to support us moving forward without these meds soon!

[@DianaMcFerran]

trying to come off Clonazepam is worse than coming off cocaine. I was put on it a few years ago to help me sleep as I had chronic insomnia and not one doctor warned me that it was so bad to withdraw from. I've tried and I get such bad withdrawals even after tapering off for ages, the withdrawals start between 5-7 days after the last pill. Terrible withdrawals and of course rampant insomnia. I wouldn't have taken them if I'd known, but I've got a chronic condition that lasts the moment I wake up until my last thought at night, so I need to sleep to get a bit of relief. I guess I'm stuck on them now.

[@barbaraholland2809]

LORD, please help us.

[@cheesecake1003]

The taper was hell. Agoraphobia. Panic attacks. Couldn't do my job. I was on klonopin for 28 years, reduced 10% every 2 weeks and this took 2 1/2 years! In the end, I developed severe "air hunger." I have been off the drug 4 years, 1 month. How I do life is now completely different for anxiety management.

[@jackiem9460]

I'm so sorry. I've been on klonopin for 2yrs and am thinking of tapering off. I'm agoraphobic while on it. Instead of using it everyday, I'd like to only use it when going to church, shopping, etc.

[@user-hq5ps7dx7d]

Help me pleas

[@UniqueCuriousMakeupArtist]

😮😢🤗

[@corgimom2]

Informed consent before prescribing! That's what is needed. I was poly drugged (for years) and misdiagnosed. I've come off 4 psych meds over the past 2 years. None of my doctors ever told me the risks, the side effects or the complete hell of trying to taper off a psych med. I'm currently on 1 mg of Klonopin (down form 2mg). I dread tapering off this medication. I feel like complete hell all the time. Fatigue, depression and a general feeling of unwellness. All since coming off 4 psych meds and tapring on Klonopin. I feel like a shell of my former self. It really does mess with your life. I feel brain dead half the time. I'm dealing with a lot of anger towards the mental health community in general. I did find a good psychiatrist over a year ago who has helped me a great deal. He is patient, kind and understanding in this whole process. I'm still on Vyvanse for ADHD and Cymbalta for my depression. I plan on staying on those for now. Thanks for the video.

[@RobespierreThePoof]

Sloppy diagnosis in psychiatry is a much bigger issue than anyone likes to admit. The same goes for psych prescriptions. There's so much guesswork. I don't understand why there's not a much bigger push for dramatic improvements in diagnosis in psychiatry.

[@UniqueCuriousMakeupArtist]

Informed consent!!! Absolutely!!!

[@jolenekindiak8849]

Finally a doctor talking real about psychatric drugs!

[@RobespierreThePoof]

Benzos saved my life. No exaggeration. I overcame extreme persistent patterns of anxiety using them. I never had any problems using them and never had any problems stopping using them. In more recent years, with much lower levels of anxiety overall, I still have occasional panic attacks. Only about once a year. This is a huge improvement. But no doctor will prescribe them anymore. This, despite the fact that I have such a successful history with these medications.

[@Discordia5]

I'm having the same problem. I only took about 5 per month when I was experiencing PMDD. Without them, I panic so bad I'm afraid I traumatize my toddler, and the guilt over that is something that will haunt me for the rest of my days. I wish SSRIs helped, but I swear they make PMDD 10× worse, maybe it's just me.

[@xy-qy2yg]

I am sorry the harm they cause others makes doctors now NOT willing to prescribe to you if it helps you. I really believe in epigenetic testing and I hate the doctor and therapist that prescribed me clonazepam for cortisone withdrawal and tinnitus cognitive behavioural therapy. Because they ruined my life. Like ruined. I cannot walk or talk anymore at all. But I have basically the WORST DNA FOR THIS. And I just had minor anxiety.

[@kathyc5849]

just because a person comes off them without issue does not mean it will always be that way. I came off klonopin twice with no issues, third time stopping from the same dose after years on it all hell broke loose. I had symptoms often seen in severe drug abusers despite talking a low dose and was left with severe muscle issues to the point I could not work or function for over a year. I thought they were wonders for sleep. Had no idea it would cause major neurological issues and severe cognitive problems for years. They have also been proven to worsen PTSD and increase suicide risk 3x. also a person given a benzo after a trauma is 3-5 times MORE likely to develop PTSD due to how benzos affect memory and coding.

[@estefaniesantana8532]

​@Discordia5 absolutely right, they help for a few hours but after is hell, extremely horrible. I have them but dint take them as often. 60 pills last more than a year sometimes they expire and I don't use. I'm terrified of them, of becoming dependent. 😢

[@karenslaughing]

@@kathyc5849hi could you site the source where they increase suicidality by 3x and can increase PTSD. I’m interested to read that study. Thanks

[@Puppies-z9h]

Ruined a few years of my life, almost k*lled me and wrecked some family relationships I had. Also the acute and protracted withdrawals were hell on Earth. I'd rather d*e than go through that again. You should really do a lot of reading about all the negatives and do absolutely everything under the sun first to address and manage your issues before taking them.

[@rickm6232]

Prescribed with a smile! What a joke.

[@iGoFWD]

Dear Tracey Marks, I have a paradoxical reaction to benzos - they usually rarely help me for my intense situational anxiety, but once I had to wean them off, I was dropped into terrible agoraphobia. Two years passed, I still have those agoraphobic issues and with only very slow and sure CBT i try to overcome all this disaster. All in all, benzos did more harm to me than good for my anxiety…..

[@inforestsweheal]

Of course they did. Dr. Marks is being politically savvy. What she really needs to say is stay the hell away from these pills. I don't know anyone who's taken them and had a good ending.

[@ThomasMuethingDotCom]

@@inforestsweheal Tracey said what she said. These pills have a place in acute panic disorder, seizure management, and spasticity/dystonia management.

[@inforestsweheal]

​@@ThomasMuethingDotCom They have a place IF they were being prescribed responsibly. But they aren't. People shouldn't be on them for years but that's what's happening. Have you read the other comments? Watch the video "Medicating Normal" and stop defending big pharma

[@ThomasMuethingDotCom]

@@inforestsweheal Yes, I have read the other comments. I have cerebral palsy. I was on diazepam/Valium after my tenotomy's at 15 and have been on clonazepam for several years. Medicine is individualized. I actually think neuroleptics are more overprescribed then benzo's.

[@LizInTheB]

@@inforestsweheal You do now. I was having unexplained/unprovoked attacks out of nowhere when I was 26. I wasn't ever an anxious or nervous person, so it never occurred to me that it could be neurological/psychological--particularly since my attacks were so physical. I was fine during actual emergency situations. No panic whatsoever. Yet, I could be sitting with friends laughing and having a blast, when attacks would hit me out of nowhere, and take me out. I had every medical test and scan known to man back then--even had my eyes examined, searching for a physical cause, because my attacks were VERY physical. (Overwhelming feeling of faint/dizziness/sweating/heart racing/blurred vision, couldn't keep my balance. It was just awful.) Long story short, I eventually and reluctantly went to a psych who said that my symptoms sounded like panic disorder, where my fight/flight response was out of whack. He prescribed a benzo and I could not BELIEVE the difference it made. It's not hyperbole to say that they saved my life, as I wouldn't have HAD one without them. I was 26 then, and I'm 66 now. (Well, 67 next week, but close enough.) Thankfully, my doctor is the "If it ain't broke, don't fix it" type. It's worked well for me for 40 yrs, so now you know someone who had a good ending.

[@DrewCogswell]

This video is a good start. I wish there was more research going into this and more awareness campaigns, especially with providers. I came across BIND about 6 months ago and have tried to talk to my GP, Psychiatrist, and Therapist about it, but none are educated on it - although they agree that long-term benzo use is bad. I started on Lorazepam after some PTSD issues and major surgery and continued on it for 11 years. Every time I tried to stop I had withdrawel, and kept going back to it. My provider at the time enabled it and I got up to 4mg a day. It wasn't until I was on another medication that had withdrawel did I realize the "anxiety" I was feeling when not getting my regular benzo was actually acute withdrawel. I've been off it for over 3 years now, but since stopping have never been able to fully control my anxiety issues. I also have severe ADHD now in my late 40's, which I did not have before the benzo use. Nobody believes that they are tied together, but my cognitive and executive function are totally different now.

[@Sarahpreecenelsonnz]

I believe you, because i know what you say to be true; the terrible damage caused. I'm sorry you were (mis) treated this way.

[@karagraham9764]

Peri-menopause can also wreck cognitive functioning. That happens in our 40s too. The good news is THAT gets better

[@MG63]

Here in the UK doctors are now very reluctant to prescribe benzodiazepines. The British National Formulary (BNF) states that these drugs are indicated for the short term relief (two to four weeks only), preferably only one week for anxiety or insomnia that is severe, disabling, or causing the patient unacceptable distress. Thank you Dr Tracey Marks.

[@meagiesmuse2334]

@MG63 - I know someone who only took them for a week and it took him 2 months of withdrawal to get off. Everyone is different. I was told to look at my family and if anyone in the direct line has any type of addiction at all, then double or triple your withdrawal time.

[@user-xy4ff5yp7b]

@@meagiesmuse2334Yes, when I take them for a few days, the period afterwards can be characterised by heightened anxiety. A rebound effect

[@jodykidp5396]

I think listening to this video, several times, is needed. Dr Tracey is giving us allot of information, here. It's not a diagnosis video, it's an information video! Never take this as her diagnosing your condition, She's here to be helpful. Talk to your own health care providers, personally!~

[@bobsolem6034]

Prescribed by a doctor to take them for the "rest of your life." Then 22 years later it took 6 years to get through BIND after tapering off of them in 6 months - way too fast - but my doctors didn't know and advice online was hard to find. The first two years were easily the worst years of my life and I lost my job. For this one I would listen to online advice if your doctors don't know. Listen to previous users and their experience. I would have done a LOT worse had I not. Thank you Dr. Marks.

[@breezyncj]

I've been on klonopin for 5 years now..I wouldn't wish the withdrawal symptoms on my worst enemy, and I've withdrawn from things like high doses of opiates, and buprenorphine. I would take opiate withdrawals over benzo withdrawals any day.

[@rickm6232]

I agree. I'm on Lorazepam. I can go 51 hours without my benzo's then.............insomnia, severe depression, anxiety x 1000, aches and pains, tremors, eye sockets hurt. Does the doctor tell you that. Nope. Quick to prescribe it though! Yes. It is rough mam.

[@BzInfoCoalition]

Thanks for speaking about BIND! Unfortunately, we've found that most prescribers are not able to safely taper a patient off. The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines offer better ideas than most prescribers.

[@meagiesmuse2334]

@BzinfoCoalition - I used the Ashton Bible to withdraw. I heard about it at Benzo Buddies online. I found a psychiatric ARNP to lead me through it. Trying to have an Internist do it did not work. I agree with you that they have no idea how dangerous it is to quit cold turkey. One told me it should not take me more than two weeks, after being on them for 33 years! I learned to always ask your Pharmacist with drug questions. In the USA, doctors get their drug info from drug salespeople, who only tell them the pros of the drugs.

[@redrum0127]

thank you doctor. i quit my prescriptions cold turkey six years ago and its still a struggle to feel normal again. glad to know why that might be happening.

[@stephdalek4273]

I took them for a year and it took me a year to taper off. I just couldn't go any faster because it was unbearable otherwise. No one believed me; at the end of my taper when I was taking quarter pills, everyone told me they're just placebo at that point. Nope. Jumping down a quarter pill without taper would make me go insane. It's that bad.

[@Jennifer-bw7ku]

As someone who suffers with extreme severe anxiety I can totally relate to her. I would stop eating for days at a time as a punishment. I worry a lot about my life, everyone around me and pleasing everyone. It's absolutely crippling, so glad she got the help she needed, lovely young lady it's so sad that society has 1 in 3 people suffering mental health issues. I hope everyone seeks help

[@elizabethwilliams6651]

People need to realise that people with anxiety disorders have oversensitised nerves, it's not a simple case of manning up and getting over it.

[@AnjeloValeriano]

Can you help with the reliable source I would really appreciate it. Many people talk about how mushrooms and psychedelics treats anxiety, but nobody talks about where to get them. Very hard to get a reliable source here in Australia. Really need!

[@steceymorgan814]

Yes, Doctor Greg Mushrooms he is a great man of God who has the great insight on psychedelic and mushroom. He will guide you on how to use mushrooms to get good trip.

[@AnjeloValeriano]

Please, how do I reach doctor Greg?

[@steceymorgan814]

He’s on the internet

[@edie4321]

My 37 year old son is a mess from Klonopin he was prescribed 20 years ago. He is but a semblance of himself. They just keep adding other drugs to solve the side effects. He's way too scared to come off of them. Probably as a side effect, and reality says it's impossible. I pray each day for the cures being withheld that we so greatly need, and deserve. There needs to be restitution and recovery for those effected by these drugs. So be it, and so it is!

[@user-hq5ps7dx7d]

So true..thank god y support and understand him. Programms they offer here are just 6 weeks , tapering not available so at 45 i am now going 4 euthanisia. I cant do it anymore. Stay with him pleas wish i had have that support. Detoxing gave a psychosis where i broke spine and more and disable and in pain forever. Now even at higher dose and the prebagaline she advises. She should know its as addictive as benzo.. so now i am in benzo and lyrica hell. Google it and pleas advise him not ever take them with it. God bless. 🙏😪🙏

[@mentalhealthwithalana]

I've been on them for over three years with breaks in between and never had an issue. It has helped me so much honestly couldn't be more great full for them though I know people don't agree. For me my Psychiatrist heavily monitors it.

[@pr23487]

Same

[@chrysewymer9009]

If it works and causes no issues, that's awesome

[@KyanneSummer]

Same to me. My psychiatrist heavily monitors it. In Greece they are very concerned about these. But they have really helped.

[@avril.227]

I was stuck in some anxious patterns, only thing that truly helped.

[@lailaal.6531]

Excellent information; thank you, Dr.Marks.

[@Lispylisperson]

I went to Rehab for alcohol in 2017. They literally forced me off of the Klonopin I had been on for years for my anxiety without even asking me if it was OK. They just took them away. I had post acute withdrawal syndrome for two months afterwards, I couldn’t sleep because I was shaking so much

[@WilliamA-]

I was taking Clonazepam from when I was 20-24 (about 6 months have passed since I stopped). I think benzos are great while you are on them, but when I stopped taking them I got alot of anxiety, even though that wasn't what I was taking them for. What worked great for anxiety relief was getting a stable dose of 200mg of Lamotrigine (4-6 weeks +) in the system before starting to taper the benzos, quitting wasn't a walk in the park but it was definitelly doable. I heard people find benzo withdrawals almost unbearable so hopefully this will help someone!

[@JimMork-r9u]

Well, I think it really depends on the professionalism of MD's involved. Two times after ER visits, I got benzos. First time, no followup appointment was set. I cold turkeyed. I got LECTURED! Second time, at 2am, I got the same prescription. BUT the ER psychiatrist at that time set up my first appointment with the hospital's psychiatrist who performed an in depth study of my issues. And the offramp for the drug was smooth. The "problem" is too much of our medical system is shallow. Write the scrip, say goodbye. Don't blame the drug, blame the doctor.

[@RobespierreThePoof]

Psychiatry is painfully short staffed in most places. Plus, in the US, insurance companies have created a situation where psychiatrists can rarely do anything but medication management. They just don't compensate for anything more than that. That's one part of what you're seeing. But you also describe going to hospitals for psych care, when it sounds like you should be seeing someone as a routine outpatient. Perhaps I misunderstand.

[@randdomize858]

For me lorazepam felt like the key to feeling normal. Once I made other changes like improving gut health and finding healthier coping mechanisms suddenly all they did was make me feel tired and brain dead (really poor impulse control). It was very interesting to see the change happen.

[@mangantasy289]

I've been taking Alprazolam for years now. I've never heard of BIND, but definitely kow never to abruptely stop taking any psychopharmaca. I'm honestly a luttle worried now. Not that I was good enough to consider stopping them any time soon. But I'm very thankful for the knowledge.

[@corwin32]

I have been on benzos for years. They quite literally saved my life. But the tapering is taking a year+

[@edie4321]

Why are you tapering? Was it your choice, if you don't mind my asking?

[@MrDcrules]

Thx Tracey. I’ve been on clonazepam and other medications for 25 years for a variety of anxiety disorders. I see the day coming when I’ll try to get off the clonazepam. Especially now that I’m in my mid 50s. Best.

[@danielt6856]

Working as a Clinical Psychologist, benzos and antianxiolytics can be so hard to work with - some of the long term "treatment resistant" people fundamentally have substance problems with these drugs. SSRI/SNRIs are fine, but short-acting agents are massively problematic for treating anxiety. Anxiety management generally comes down to: 1) Exposure and habituation to a trigger, after which reactivity to that trigger generally reduces (which these drugs interrupt because no anxiety is experienced when experiencing a feared situation). 2) Developing a fear-inhibiting pathway which reflects believing that an individual is able to cope (these drugs prevent that because they tend to reinforce the belief that "I was only okay because of my meds").

[@adamm1117]

Very informative, appreciate your comment. Anxiety absolutely sucks to treat, and social anxiety has been especially difficult to tackle because interactions just go poorly when you're so obviously "off", heh. But seems like you just have to push through regardless to treat it (through repeat exposures)

[@RobespierreThePoof]

I hear you. And that's eloquently phrased. But I'm a patient whose experience if benzos has been altogether positive. My severe anxiety issues were successfully treated with benzos combined with CBT. No dependency. No withdrawal. It's my mood issues and ADHD that have been much more challenging to treat. But at least I am not going through life with somethibg that resembled generalized anxiety disorder every day anymore. I still have a few Ativan laying around somewhere. Haven't really needed them for a long while. Years now.

[@jessicadufort8762]

Appreciate your perspective however your understanding of anxiety leaves no room for the anxiety not caused by thoughts or reactions to prior events. Some forms of anxiety are completely biochemical in nature and can be at the very least difficult if not impossible to “think” your way out of. Benzos don’t have to be the answer but sometimes something as simple as zinc, B6 and magnesium supplementation are sufficient- even for difficult cases. There are other methods as well. The biggest problem with your approach is that in the end it puts the entire onus on the individual to be well or not. That doesn’t happen to persons with diabetes or leukemia or thyroid issues- but there are still those in the mental health field who don’t see the biological component of mood/anxiety issues. It’s unfortunate because I believe they mean well- just need to inspect their own thought process and see where it inevitably leads. Treat the individual- not the diagnosis.

[@Sarahpreecenelsonnz]

@daniel6856 you say: 'SSRIs and SNRIs are fine'. As a Clinical Psychologist what you are schooled in is ignorant arrogance. Your paradigm does insurmountable harm and you are so indoctrinated into an authority whose harms you are blind to. Stop the harm.

[@BarbaraFrandsen-v4k]

Dr. Marks what about taking a GABA supplement during the tapering? Would that help?

[@yourbrokenoven]

In the hospital, the psychiatrist did a taper of clonazepam over three days for a patient who had been taking a higher dose for over 30 years. Added other medications to help with the taper, but the benzos were reduced and stopped over a much shorter time than you're describing. This is interesting.

[@TheDiamondladyone]

A lot of patients present to psych on benzodiazepines from family practice. I think they start them too soon. When explained they are intended for short term use doesn’t go over well with most patients. I do mention risks for long term use. I have had patients come to me after 15 years on benzodiazepines with no known reason for continuing. Thanks for the confirmation of doing what’s best for my patients.

[@ReginamiIls]

Dankjewel Dokter ♥️ je bent de beste. ❤

[@nikkinikki6570]

Twenty four years of xanax and anti-depressant use. Now, I'm having mild cognitive decline and bad memory issues. A brain MRI shows white matter disease which may or may not be MS, still in the diagnosing stage. I think perhaps it's all or nearly all from the benzo use. Last time I tried to taper off, I had seizures. Am I doomed to take this stuff for life, just to avoid the nasty withdrawal?

[@rickm6232]

It's bullshit . Doctors should be liable. Do you think they don't know the ramifications of the drugs they are giving you with a smile?

[@Thomas-j2g6x]

So why the fuck do they even prescribe this shit if it makes one worce this shit fucked my life up big time I’m a year off and still suffering bad I can’t fucking eat cause I’m in to much pain

[@charles2521]

Cause the American pharmaceutical oligarchs need your money

[@tommays56]

Was on 4mg of klonopin for about 30 years and needed to make a big change at 62 nothing you said here comes cold to how horrible it was to taper off over 1 year and it really NEVER ended Ultimately after the 1 year taper and no benzodiazepine for 3 months I had to start taking a Temazepam 30 as I was struggling to leave the house and function

[@rickm6232]

So sad. Just trade one for another. You should be able to file a lawsuit.

[@kevini4295]

Had a terrible experience with benzos. Doc had prescribed them to me. They work amazing at the start, but then you need to take more for the same effect. I got addicted. Got weaned off. Having dealt with anxiety and panic most of my adult life. I wish I could use them as needed. Right now I use clonidine as an alternative. It is not perfect, but does help some.

[@user-xy4ff5yp7b]

I use a very small amount short term on a rare occasion I really need them. I took them a few days over the past week but have been off it several days and thankful to have clarity and energy back now

[@ThomasMuethingDotCom]

Hi, Dr Marks - Havwe been on special K/clonazepam for may years. There typo's at the following caption lines: 1:05 - Bynes -> should be BIND; 1:45 D personalization -> depersonalisation; 3:24 "Buying sx" -> BIND sx; 7:08 gabapentin brand name neuron 10 -> gabapentin brand name Neurontin I don't have BIND, but I am so dependent on K that I have experience emergency withdawal sx when my neurologist tried tapering me over 2 months from 0.5 to 0.25 mg. I never fully went off - just kept doing 0.25 mg in December, and I thought the stiffness was just my tone from winter. Pink is a great colour for you, Tracey!!! Have a great day.

[@AtortAerials]

I have been given Lorazepam for sleep…only 0.5mg up to 1mg. My doctor downplays them saying it’s a candy dose. But if I take them I feel like it doesn’t even help with my sleep anymore and instead give me a headache and make me feel worse…it’s so weird. I’m confused if I should just stop them and avoid 100%? Can those lower doses like mine cause these effects too? I’ve been feeling super foggy and also my stomach was a wreck I can’t figure it out maybe it’s this so hard to know! 😫. Why are we even prescribed these if the risks are so high for crap like this it’s like the last thing we need when severely depressed and anxious. Such a messed up medical world.

[@torturachina6452]

Benzos are a quick fix for anxiety and insomnia, that's why they are prescribed

[@rickm6232]

I'm on 4mg as a result of my parents committing suicide. I'm doomed. If your planning to get off them use the Ashton Manual. 10% each month off your prescribed dose!

[@AtortAerials]

@@rickm6232 but can 1mg dose cause withdrawal symptoms?

[@user-hq5ps7dx7d]

We dont have the energy to do yesrs ....god help us🙏

[@silviabrown3013]

Many from MN also fled to Wisconsin taking up all of our housing as well

[@Tierborean93]

Is ketamine therapy a good idea for someone in BIND? I am at .25mg ativan and have been stuck for years during my taper from 5mg/day klonopin (all prescribed, taked an directed) and have been a spravato patient. Benzos ruined my life. I had to drop out of college when I had a 3.8gpa in chemistry biochemistry

[@chrysewymer9009]

Once took a Xanax. It might as well have been a TicTac. My psych yeeeears ago wrote a script for Klonopin, and I noped out of that real fast. Standing on the sidewalk with my baby in his stroller about 13 years ago but felt like I was in the middle of the street. Knew I was on the sidewalk, felt like I was on the street. Ran in the house pretty freaking terrified, and she offered another Benny, and nope, I don’t want meds for anxiety giving me anxiety

[@fifibc7925]

I’ve been taking them daily for 10 years 😢

[@igumzels6033]

How are you now

[@BigSunn0]

I'm 6 years off of them. It was hell getting off of them. You have to know that it is going to be hell for a period of time and accept it. It's just the hole that we dug for ourselves and there's no way out except to struggle.

[@fifibc7925]

@@igumzels6033 not good

[@nikkinikki6570]

@@BigSunn0 Hi, how are you feeling now? Does it get better? I am going to do a taper off program with my doctor's help. I've tried to get off xanax before but it really was hell.

[@moand7862]

​@BigSunn0 15 years off of them for me. I figured out that 30 minutes of cardio could get me through each day. That was my replacement. Then, I added other new habits to deal with anxiety. Exercise was my go to.

[@MrDcrules]

Thank you Dr. Marks. It sounds like BIND symptoms also can happen when someone has been on benzes for years, not just when they are coming off of a Benzo, right? In other words, symptoms like rebound anxiety that occurs during long term use occurs during use and tapering off, right? Best!

[@sharlene4mylife]

I think that’s exactly what I’m experiencing. I have been bedridden for over a year while on the SAME dose I’ve always taken. I am sure I’m in withdrawal because my body doesn’t respond anymore and it feels like BIND. The pain, stiffness, spine pain, tremor, weight loss…….all benzo!

[@kareemahmed7028]

Hello.. Is there a natural alternative to gabapentin? Because it causes me impotence and constipation

[@whoopdeedoo876]

I've been taking them for 25 years. I did a slow 3 year taper that was hell and still couldn't wean off it completely.

[@KristinLove82]

Same, but I’m on year 5

[@minel1896]

Does bind effect occur due to quitting or forgetting get daily dose of ssri drug?

[@wendydarling1745]

Currently looking for a provider to wean me OFF this poison. Damn Dr. put me on this 15 years ago. Thank you for all your videos. They are very helpful.

[@5057birth]

I have been bedridden for 2 1/2 years because of a rapid taper off of Klonopin. My BIND symptoms are so immense I could not even list them all here. Mine are mostly physical, but for two years before I stopped, Klonopin, I was having severe inter dose withdrawal symptoms such as extreme anxiety and cognitive problems. You would think that I would have had very knowledgeable doctors because I went to Johns Hopkins to do my taper. However, like every other doctor I’ve spoken to since, I was gaslighted and they denied my symptoms had anything to do with coming off of my Benzo to rapidly. In fact, over the course of the last couple years, I’ve seen a lot of doctors and everyone of them has never heard of problems, coming off of benzos and make you feel as if it’s all in your head. I’m glad to see that at least one doctor is out there talking about it besides Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring.

[@sharlene4mylife]

I’m so sorry! Terrifying and I hope you find a path to healing. John Hopkins offered me a place in their pain clinic. They take you off your benzo in 14 days to be enrolled. I said no, I didn’t start my taper but I am very sick in tolerance. Do you mind if I ask what the symptoms are that have you bedridden?

[@kevinagee4528]

I am almost 9 years off Clonazapam. I’m currently in a huge wave.

[@flips_abird]

7 years off in a wave 😩

[@sharlene4mylife]

Did you taper off slow? This terrifies me! I’m in tolerance, too sick to taper and I feel the damage is done. I have no way off :(

[@kevinagee4528]

@ No I didn’t. I have not meet anyone that has had permanent damage from this. The healing can last longer than you want it too.

[@MotherAndDaughterSquad2012]

Took them for over 15 years. 3 different types. Never ever knew the dangers. Wish I knew then what I know now. Makes me so angry that doctors prescribed things they don't know enough about. Honestly think benzos should only be on a psychiatrist scope.

[@Tonykh6017]

Thank you, a great video!

[@mrsmc2612]

Help! How do wean myself and do any natural supplements help?

[@randdomize858]

Should probably try out magnesium

[@rickm6232]

Ashton Manual. Look it up. 10% a month off your daily dose. Dr. Ashton was the pioneer on how to get off benzo's :)

[@BzInfoCoalition]

@@rickm6232 We think Ashton is dated and much too fast. Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines are much better.

[@IrohBlue]

Started writing this before even getting to the video being about benzos lol! Clonazepam was an absolute B to stop taking, no matter the taper method I had terrible withdrawal, I’m still having issues with my heightened anxiety and the only thing I will ever do for my anxiety is therapy and coping strategies!

[@kimjohnson8471]

It ain't no joke!

[@mrsmacca126]

OMG. The bind effects explain SO much. Been tapering for six months. Only by one half mg, so far. As I’ve begun tapering, the muscle stuff and gastro stuff is evident. Very weird

[@rickm6232]

*This is great. I bet 99% of psychiatrists know this but never tell the patient. I'm on Lorazepam. Thanks Doc! Just another thing to worry about. Legal drug dealers. Pill pushers. I have been on it for years as a result of my parents suicide attempts. This really pisses me off. If your seeing a shrink your getting meds. I have seen over 10 shrinks They never tell you the side effects, even GP's don't. If you know this Dr. Marks why prescribe it? I have never been to a doctor who gives out a prescription then right after tells you the side effects. The health system has become a joke. There should be some liability on the doctors part. My aunt has been on xanax for over 25 years. You think doctors don't know this before they prescribe it? You have to educate yourself.*

[@nailedbykayy]

I have been on Xanax since I was 15 and I am now 32, heavily addicted and wanting off so badly😢, and extremely pissed off that I was given this horrible medication(and a bunch more) so young and not told about the physical dependency, the side effects, how hard the withdrawal is, or anything else other than they'll help my anxiety so I can go to school😡 I just had a nightmare experience of a doctor trying to taper me off of 3mg in less than two MONTHS. I almost died.. these drugs shouldn't even be legal!!!

[@arthurmee]

I was on Lorazepam for suddenly developing ppanic attacks. My doctor told me immediately that addiction can be a problem. I knew that anyway. I'm surprised so many people here did not know that dependence can be a problem. It's been a been well known issue for decades since Valium hit the scene back in the early 60s.

[@nailedbykayy]

Benzos weren't a thing in the drug scene when I was 15.

[@jyncaldwell6457]

What would be considered a "high dose"? Like 2-4mg a night for a year for xanax?

[@ChicagoAllen]

Benzodiazepines are a gift and a curse because of how addictive and effective they are. I’m a masters level substance abuse counselor, and few, if any, psychiatrists or PCPs adequately, explain the benefits and the downsides of these medication. Notably, patients living with alcohol addiction are far more likely to be abuse benzos if provided outside of a medical setting. Not to mention the overdose potential that can come from higher tolerance, and the synergistic effects when benzos are taken with other substances.

[@user-hq5ps7dx7d]

Why arent there clinics more since more and more of us benzo or lyrica victims . Only max 6 to 8 weeks help and thats not enough for long time users. Is there anyone else suicidal due the use i feel so alone but i cant do it anymore. Prayers are welcome 🙏 god bless u all Tapering also not available in my country ..🙏 help pleas

[@sharlene4mylife]

Are you still on your benzo?

[@BABE_L]

Thx tracey❤

[@karagraham9764]

I was given Visteril to get off Benzos and it was helpful. I was also on a very low dose of benzos

[@malakreviews4743]

We want information about new anxiety medications and when they will hit the market?

[@masonlurks8885]

I think Xanax abuse made me quite dissociated, definitely ruined my memory bad I can't recall anything as sharp as I use to be it sucks! You will regret it, i can't even think straight enough to talk fluently the words just don't come to mind with ease since

[@josephjude1290]

Great informative information

[@ellachallas]

7:09 What about clonidine and/or propanolol? Would love to hear the Dr’s opinion on this!

[@BzInfoCoalition]

Those are GABA drugs. For most people, BIND healing requires avoiding GABAergic drugs.

[@Iliketurtlezz]

@@BzInfoCoalitionYou should know that Propranolol reduces glutamate release. Stop fearmongering. Theyre not ‘GABA’ drugs. It can increase signaling but theyre by no means GABA drugs.

[@sharlene4mylife]

@@BzInfoCoalitionand for some….in order to not take their own lives…..taking the benzo away with help from a drug such as gabapentin is the INLY way off. Sometimes it’s life or death.

[@KyanneSummer]

How do you live without them when for three months straight you throw up and shit your pants daily from anxiety?????

[@kimjohnson8471]

The moral of the story is RARELY (cannot say never) use benzodizepines unless under the supervision of a medical professional. If your Doc prescribes you a benzo, please refer to the moral of the story but include the NEVER! Thanks, Dr. Marks.

[@karenslaughing]

Addiction can happen fast! More than 2 wks- I took 2mg of Ativan for 6 wks and went off cold turkey- I was already addicted- I had horrible withdrawal symptoms- suicidal, depersonalization, derealization, profound depression. Don’t take them!

[@Alexdelarge1975]

If you take something that brings immediate relief, you will pay a price in the end. For decades I've tried legal and illegal drugs to relief my social fear and mayor depressive disorder. It did not work out. I now live an alcohol and drug free life.

[@jawadkashem1436]

Hey doc, do anti depression & anxiety medications cause blurry vision ? Thanks,

[@officialtimothyphoenix]

Now can we do this same video for Adderall? I got questions but I don't think my FP doctor understands or is concerned about it. 😐

[@KatrinaQuick]

homeless shelter since February

[@Muziqizlyf]

I was a heroin addict my whole life basically. The last 6 years of my addiction I was straight up homeless in DC, shooting up and alleys, sleeping on benches, and panhandling everything I got. I've been sober now for almost 6 years now. I bought a car, I maintain a place to stay, and I work 10 hours a day 6 days a week. Also I live in Charleston, a beach town. It started off by me going into a shelter and taking it seriously. There's people that will help you if you really want it. And if there's nobody there find somebody that will. Nothing's better to me now then getting up in the morning driving my car to work and getting in my car at night and driving home and going to sleep in a bed. God bless you I hope things get better. I know they will if you try as hard as you can❤❤❤❤

[@edie4321]

I pray for restitution and proper recovery for us so horribly effected. I'm at the seven year mark, and barely hanging in. I'm so sorry for you having to go through this. It is not right. It is time for balance to be restored.

[@albitaisback]

And then what do you do for anxiety and have low blood pressure and can't take proponolol.

[@avril.227]

Recommend Buspar, works for some. Or Gabapentin.

[@albitaisback]

@@avril.227 tried both. Allergic to Buspar.

[@albitaisback]

Trying Doterra hollostic products.

[@joymurray5557]

I've been on Klonopin for over 10 years but not so much for anxiety as for clonus and muscle twitching due to a neurological disorder that causes partial paralysis. It is the only medication I've found that actually works in keeping my twitching under control so I can sleep at night. I take 2 mg at night and I don't feel as if it affects me in any negative way. I do have some brain fog and some cognitive problems, but these are also symptoms of my neurological disorder so hearing this news about bind is disturbing, but, I'm not sure it qualifies for my case. I have gone off of Klonopin sometimes for over a year had some minor withdrawal problems, mostly the struggle to keep the clonas and muscle twitching under control without it. So I guess I'm weighing one problem with another. Do you have any thoughts on this?

[@jodykidp5396]

I'd say have a good long talk with your own doctor, tell them about this video. Do the best you can with folks in your area, that are helpful. You have my thoughts for a good outcome. Joann

[@joymurray5557]

​@@jodykidp5396 thank you ❤

[@mekman4]

Thank you!

[@n3otney]

Who do I go to or talk to if I feel as tho coming off of Lexapro 25mg has done the same thing to me? I am experiencing all of this.. still 9 months off of Lexapro… I bring it up to my doctor and to no avail. I feel lost and just want some help to aid me in this. Thank you!

[@Discordia5]

Watch the KZbin video by After Skool titled "The myth of low Serotonin." SSRI withdrawal is serious, and not in your imagination.

[@nowyouareoneofus9684]

Dr Marks, does this also apply to SSRI's?

[@XenaGaunt-wi7rx]

No!

[@nowyouareoneofus9684]

@@XenaGaunt-wi7rx Thank you for your reply. Are you a doctor too? Please add s little more info why not.

[@DShaw1776]

23 years …. I’ve attempted with medical care and supervision but I also have vestibular damage … I have no idea now what is actually my issues??? I just take the exact same dosage at the same time every night just to keep consistency in my system.

[@Guammaine]

So what is the solution? How do you successfully get off of them?????????????!!!!!!!

[@Jluna1111]

Why can't we just stay on them forever? Like an antidepressant. I only take 3-5 tablets a week but I'm happy to continue with that. They're so helpful to me. I have little detoxes every now and then for a few weeks but it's only the first week or so that's a bit difficult, mainly just insomnia

[@mythias]

My doctor started tapering me off them and before I came off completely, I switched to another doctor that had me finish the process. Both doctors told me that they wanted me to stop taking (after several years being on V.) because they said there are studies showing they may cause dementia after a while.

[@MathewWeaver73]

So if you can detox off of them and not take them for a few weeks, why do you need to go back on them? Most people on here are saying that they’re trying to get off of them because if you do a little research, you’ll find out that they are terrible for you. But unfortunately, they are having a difficult time because their body has now become physically and psychologically dependent on the Klonopin to make them feel normal. I don’t wanna be on medication for the rest of my life to feel normal. Especially when it comes from big Pharma. Who by the way created the opioid epidemic.

[@rickm6232]

I am. My aunt has been on Xanax for over 25 years. If we only have the present moment today and the future is unknown, past is gone then why not end up like a vegetable? Doctor's don't care. They'd make no money if they did.

[@Jluna1111]

@@MathewWeaver73 I only detox here and there because I think it's the right thing to do. I'm still waiting for that next script tho! It's not like I just forget about it. I need them for meltdowns and major depression episodes. I do have anxiety but it's mostly physical so the Val just gives my body and mind a break sometimes too

[@daniellefournier978]

Took Ativan and Xanax in the 90s. It took me a year to completely stop...

[@barbaraalbert5600]

I didn't know there is a word for a physician and/or treatment caused harm. It's pronounced IATROGENIC. Apparently Miriam Webster knows about Benzos.

[@barbaraalbert5600]

And I'm so not laughing, my uninformed ass off. I'm a little over a year physically off. Ten months was too fast for long term high dose Ativan/lorazepam. Tinnitus screaming in my ears 24/7 for who knows how many years. My alcoholic neuropathy, had dwindled to my feet and toes. This includes burning now and more body coverage.. I'm gitty without joy. Only just got my smell and taste(from Covid) back to realizing...do I? My childhood speech junk is here. Depersonalization. Isolation and my brain thinking (the negativity) I'm still a burden from childhood abuse and neglect that's been started on healing to now-- wtf. I'm 61. My nervous system is crap. Whatever's left is so used to being sedated. There's so much incoming sensory, and no 'inhibitory', nothing resembling brakes to help slowing input down. Can't think my way out of a wet paper bag...I didn't get unscrewed from covid . Turns out I've been in some kind of withdrawal not too long after starting. In the 90s. WTF.

[@justice4935]

OMG! Benzos should be banded. Why are these still available for patients. I had the misfortune of using Ativan for a short time at the smallest possible dose, once a day. Then tapered. Withdrawal was hell on wheels😵‍💫🤯🥴🥶. I thought I was not going to survive. Thank God I did. Never again!

[@nadia_here]

how long did it take for you to taper off? I'm in the same situation and didn't know why I was experiencing BIND

[@RobespierreThePoof]

Because they've saved lives for some of us who don't have these problems with them.

[@hiya1399]

7:00 this is dangerous advice to be giving patients. Benzodiazepines are GABAergic and BIND is a GABA receptor injury. We advise patients to stay away from any and all GABAergic drugs (and supplements) not just while they're tapering but also for 1-2 years post completion of their taper. We have found patients who take these drugs to "help" their taper, end up having longer recovery times.

[@patricialongo5870]

I believe my child was harmed by benzos, but it's hard to find mental health treatment without harmful drugs.

[@misha4595]

Benzodiazepine especially bromazepam is the best medicine ever

[@viacomica]

Sou cercado por uma imensidão de incertezas. Sou um emaranhado de emoções confusas. Sou um grande poço de insegurança. Sou templo de toda cobrança.

[@markpatrick5246]

I’m on .25 mg klonopin daily for 1 yr following my mom’s death .. how do I taper such a low dose

[@lexik184]

Wow. I’ve never heard of this. I’ve been on benzos (“as needed”) for about 4 years. I’ve been experiencing a lot of the cognitive things mentioned. No doctors can figure it out and the only thing that seems to help is the actual medication. Idk what to do from here.

[@90klh]

8:16 - i think we should give patients needing benzos longer than 2 weeks an NMDA antagonist like nemanda, or even dextromethorphan to slow the neurological changes, help with anxiety and slow the development of tolerance - not a perfect solution, but better than having to come off benzo meds with paws or bind-

[@lisarabil]

I'm in NC and I wanted to know if you by chance are associated or can refer a Bi polar trained specialist. We have been playing Russian roulette for 8 months with no end in sight.

[@Laura-se5hc]

sadly, asking for close monitoring with doctor is not possible in Ontario these days. We're mostly on our own for many ailments

[@rodicailie7353]

Try True North Medical

[@JoeMo953]

I knew I was crazy how about I feel no different to anything still mad most days 😡 I’m crazy😢

[@amandaweaver625]

Why does it seem like that nothing is helping no matter what medication you’re taking? If nothing is helping, then how could it be anxiety then and not something else?

[@Gengarisspooky]

thats a good question. medication alone cannot help with the condition as a whole. for some people, anxiety is related to trauma like ptsd. others there are underlying causes such as environmental stressors, untreated neurodevelopmental conditions, prodrome for another mood disorders, side effects from the medications you are taking, untreated personality disorders, social stress, self-inflicted anxiety like thinking things would not get better, anxiety about medication and effects of medication, etc.

[@amandaweaver625]

@@Gengarisspooky So, what do you do then when nothing seems to be helping?

[@Gengarisspooky]

@@amandaweaver625 for me, i kept trying. i went into counseling to help me and i have distanced myself from those who have hurt me and will hurt me. i also continued looking for answers. if the professional i was working with refused to listen to my concerns, i'll go to the next one. i find affordable options as i no longer have insurance. there were times when i lost hope, but i didn't give up and it is very hard, but it's important to be patient when it comes to recovering and finding out what's going on to fix the underlying issues.

[@normajeancaballero7959]

Thank You for this Video. 🧠🏥🧠🏥🧠🏥🧠🏥🧠

[@artsydancequeen2964]

Is 4 mg’s of lorazepam considered a high dose? And what are other options of meds that can be used for anxiety that don’t have the same side effects?

[@BzInfoCoalition]

Yes, it's equivalent to about 40 mg of diazepam. We think the dosage doesn't really matter since physical dependence develops at any dose.

[@Itsrichardash]

Would someone who takes a .5mg tablet for panic attacks be at risk if they only use it every other month or so?

[@edie4321]

I heard that popping a super sour Warhead candy works just as well. I'd try that first, if I were you.

[@rickm6232]

I'm on 4mg of Lorazepam. .5 is child's play. You will be ok. I am doomed. Xanax?

[@Iliketurtlezz]

No, not really.

[@Iliketurtlezz]

@@rickm6232Yea if its daily you need a long slow taper.

[@gailnightowl0423]

Do you do online appts?

[@MidlifeEdit]

This is sad as most are on meds don’t have a lifestyle that will allow for this esp if they are work/school essential independent person which also could mean not having money for honorable healthcare.

[@catmate8358]

I have all the symptoms from the video. I didn't know it was recognized as a particular condition. The problem is, when I get severely anxious, I have to take benzos or I cannot function at all. Is there a replacement medication for anxiety other than benzos? I don't know of any.

[@winniemumbi9607]

For me I used venlafaxine an ssri.I also didn't struggle to come off it.

[@Iliketurtlezz]

Venlafaxine is a SNRI not a SSRI and notorious for being one of the hardest to quit. You got lucky.