Early stages of treatment and recovery from Benzo addiction frequently include the medical management of the high levels of anxiety and depression. Understanding addiction through the environmental, social and psychological lenses is important, as emphasized by Bruce K. Alexander, Ph.D. With this perspective in mind, let’s explore ways to cope with anxiety and depression during benzodiazepine addiction recovery.
What most people don’t know about benzodiazepine addiction is that withdrawal symptoms can result in fatality. Yes, benzo withdrawals can kill you. If you’re addicted to benzo’s, please seek medical advice from a competent professional experienced in this specific subject.
If a patient has been addicted to Benzo’s high quantities over a long time it’s likely they’ll experience PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome). PAWS describes long-term withdrawal which can last for months, sometimes even years, after stopping the medication. PAWS can increase dual-diagnosis issues, like anxiety and depression, making it all the more important to seek support for detox and develop coping strategies over the long haul.
Like most addiction recoveries learning mindfulness, through activities like meditation, yoga and deep breathing, can help manage mental health disorders and increase the quality of sobriety. By fostering non-judgmental awareness of the present moment, mindfulness techniques enable individuals to cultivate self-compassion and reduce emotional distress.
This isn’t news, but I’ll say it anyway – regular exercise reduces stress and helps us cope with anxiety and depression. Physical activity has long shown mood-enhancing effects. Boosting our brain’s production of feel-good chemicals like endorphins and serotonin is a free, easily accessible way for us to enhance our lives. Even moderate activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial.
A well-balanced diet is also essential in managing anxiety and depression during recovery. Nutrient-rich foods improve brain health, regulate mood, and promote overall well-being. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats is diverse and can help our brains.
Building a strong support network is vital for overcoming the emotional challenges of benzodiazepine addiction recovery. This network may include friends, family, peers in recovery, therapists, and support group members. Sharing your experiences and feelings with others who understand your struggles can alleviate feelings of isolation and provide encouragement during difficult moments.
In addition to these coping strategies, it’s crucial to address any underlying issues contributing to anxiety and depression. This may involve seeking therapy to explore past traumas, relationship difficulties, or other psychological factors. Find an experienced mental health professional to help you navigate early recovery emotions and develop a personalised treatment plan that includes coping skills.
Coping with anxiety and depression during benzodiazepine addiction recovery requires a multi-faceted approach. Taking the time to practise self-care is a great investment to stabilise your recovery. Many recovering addicts use mindfulness, meditation and yoga. Moreover, addressing underlying psychological issues is crucial in promoting long-term recovery.
Again, please seek the help of a professional if you’re addicted to benzodiazepines. A skilled mental health professional can provide and external, independent viewpoint on your life, your struggles and the movement that you need to make to get into stable, long-term recovery.