Benzodiazepine Recovery Resources

Specialized recovery resources for benzodiazepine dependence including medically supervised tapering, withdrawal management, and comprehensive recovery support. Our New Jersey sober living provides the extended support often needed for safe benzodiazepine recovery.

Understanding Benzodiazepine Dependence

Benzodiazepines are prescription medications commonly used for anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. While effective when used as prescribed, they can lead to physical dependence and addiction, sometimes within just weeks of regular use.

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Medical supervision during discontinuation is essential for safety and success. Our New Jersey sober living provides the extended support often needed for the gradual recovery process.

Common Benzodiazepines

These medications are prescribed for anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders

Xanax (Alprazolam)
Klonopin (Clonazepam)
Ativan (Lorazepam)
Valium (Diazepam)
Restoril (Temazepam)
Librium (Chlordiazepoxide)
Halcion (Triazolam)
Versed (Midazolam)
Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam)
Serax (Oxazepam)
Signs of Benzodiazepine Dependence

Dependence can develop even when taking medication as prescribed

Extreme drowsiness or sedation
Confusion and disorientation
Memory problems and blackouts
Slurred speech
Poor coordination and balance
Impaired judgment and decision-making
Taking higher doses than prescribed
Doctor shopping for multiple prescriptions
Using benzos without a prescription
Inability to function without medication
Tolerance requiring increased doses
Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be life-threatening and requires medical supervision

Withdrawal Symptoms:

Severe anxiety and panic attacks
Tremors and muscle spasms
Seizures (potentially life-threatening)
Hallucinations (visual, auditory, tactile)
Extreme sensitivity to light and sound
Insomnia and sleep disturbances

Severe Complications:

Nausea and vomiting
Rapid heart rate and palpitations
High blood pressure
Confusion and delirium
Intense cravings
Depression and suicidal thoughts

CRITICAL WARNING: Never stop benzodiazepines abruptly. Sudden discontinuation can cause life-threatening seizures. Always taper under medical supervision.

Benzodiazepine Recovery Resources

Comprehensive recovery resources specialized for benzodiazepine dependence. We help connect you with appropriate care.

Medically Supervised Tapering
3-6 months or longer
Medical provider supervision

Gradual dose reduction under medical supervision to prevent dangerous withdrawal

Medical Detoxification
1-4 weeks
Inpatient medical facility

Safe withdrawal management with 24/7 medical supervision

Residential Programs
30-90 days
Residential recovery center

Comprehensive residential recovery with specialized benzo support

Intensive Outpatient Program
3-6 months
Outpatient clinic

Structured therapy while maintaining daily responsibilities

Sober Living (Our Specialty)
6-18+ months
Sober living home

New Jersey structured sober housing with specialized benzo recovery support

Specialized Counseling
Ongoing
Therapy office or recovery center

Individual and group therapy addressing benzo dependence and underlying anxiety

Medically Supervised Taper

Gradual dose reduction is the safest approach to benzodiazepine discontinuation

Sample Taper Schedule

1

Week 1-2

10-25%

Initial reduction, monitor for symptoms

2

Week 3-4

10-25%

Continue gradual reduction if stable

3

Week 5-8

10-15%

Slower reductions as dose decreases

4

Week 9-16

5-10%

Very gradual reductions in final phase

5

Week 17+

Final discontinuation

Complete taper with close monitoring

Note: Taper schedules are individualized based on factors like dose, duration of use, and individual response. Some people may need longer, slower tapers. Our sober living provides the stable environment needed during this process.

Supportive Medications

Non-addictive medications that can help manage withdrawal symptoms

Anticonvulsants

Prevent seizures and reduce anxiety

Examples:

  • Gabapentin
  • Pregabalin
  • Carbamazepine
Beta-blockers

Manage heart rate and blood pressure

Examples:

  • Propranolol
  • Atenolol
Sleep aids

Non-addictive sleep support

Examples:

  • Trazodone
  • Melatonin
Antidepressants

Address underlying anxiety and depression

Examples:

  • SSRIs
  • SNRIs
Benzodiazepine Recovery Timeline

Recovery is a gradual process that requires patience and professional support

1

Assessment & Stabilization (1-2 weeks)

Comprehensive evaluation, medical clearance, and development of individualized taper schedule with baseline symptom assessment. We help coordinate appropriate care.

2

Gradual Taper Phase (3-6 months or longer)

Slow, medically supervised dose reductions with symptom monitoring, supportive medications, and counseling support. Our sober living provides crucial stability.

3

Post-Acute Recovery (6+ months)

Continued healing, therapy for underlying conditions, development of non-medication coping strategies, and ongoing support in our extended sober living program.

Support & Resources

Specialized Support:

Safe Benzodiazepine Recovery is Possible

With proper medical supervision and gradual tapering, you can safely discontinue benzodiazepines and reclaim your life. Our New Jersey sober living provides the extended support often needed for successful benzodiazepine recovery.

Available 24/7 • Completely Confidential • New Jersey Sober Living