Todd, this is such an incredible Quote by TR! 👏🏻 Lovely to see you mention it here- perfectly apropos- it took me back to my days of teaching 8th grade English where I had it on a poster board and hung over the clock in my classroom for decades. Thank you for taking my mind and heart back to a sweet memory. ❤️
I just wanted to say to anyone going thru this you are not your thoughts when going through benzo withdrawal. You are ok you are awesome 😎. I know it's easier said than done but trust me it's not you hold on the light will shine again even if you can't see it yet. This is a message to myself I just had a window seeing myself again. The windows are getting bigger and better. Just don't give up please don't give up because you are worth it. I am 1 1/2 years off and believe in my heart this is all for something great. Pain can be beautiful Don't forget to love yourself Much love Bob
Several times recently, maybe on benzo sites, I have seen the Churchill quote "When you are going through Hell, Keep going." That is The Best Advice! There is, unfortunately, no way out, except through it. Never, no matter what, go back.
The 2 absolutes/mantras in the Ashton Manual are: 1 You, you, are the master, captain of you're taper EVERY BODY is different.Only you know when to take the next step in you're taper. 2. NEVER , EVER enter an in-patient re-had centre. Re-habs don't work, re-habs don't know how to proper taper you and will rip you off the Benzo you are dependent/addicted to. In a in-patient re-hab you will enter a hell realm that you will never believe exists. Read Kenny Loggins' book about his nightmare e time in a in-patient re-hab. You need an experienced understanding, doctor with the knowledge to guide you through the tapering process.
I would be happy if people were always honest when discussing this. That is, always say it like it is: "Brain Damage," (Not "Benzo Withdrawal"). Please. Then, people will have an idea of the seriousness of this.
Yeah. It's nervous system an brain damage. It's even worse then withdrawal. Withdrawals last like a week to a month at the most. After that it's from damage.
It scares me a bit thinking about how all the coaches and other figures in the benzo community who are still having symptoms years out (D. E. Foster, Jenn Leigh, and Dan) we’re all on Klonopin like I was. It does seem, at least anecdotally, like it is associated with ongoing symptoms that last much longer than with the other benzos. I’d like to see some research done on that. Thanks for the video, Dan.
I agree with you about klonopin- for some reason it seems to be the bear of benzo damage. The thing to take away from our stories though, is that we have found a wonderful life despite still having some ongoing issues. A better life than I had before benzos!❤️
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.” Isaiah 43:2, NKJV
One step at a time. I say to myself "you can do it." Each part of the trip, talk to yourself: "okay, stairs, focus on Stairs, then find the desk that does copies,.then do the copies..after the copies, get safely back to the car",.like that. Do it in very small increments. Piece by piece will get it done! Plan out Each Portion of your task. You see, I had to go to the library last week, too! I wasn't sure I could do it, either! Next time I go to the library, I might take out a book! I will try to Read the book! It will get easier each time. Apply the small steps method to each and every task. That is the only way! I KNOW. .
Coming upon the 6 month mark off of Ativan…still waiting in the fire. I seem to get through the days…it’s the nights that are so dark. I just keep telling myself to hang in there and that I will eventually heal.
Hi, V. 😊 Sorry about those pesky nights; I remember how much of a challenge the dark was. The morning eventually comes for us, thank goodness. ☀️ Two things I found extremely helpful for AR: 1. ACV ( which I still take every day, even now, almost 5 years free) one tablespoon diluted in water. 2. Seltzer water These two sound almost counterintuitive, but if you read up on AR, this will make sense. ACV is a little miracle worker. Cheap and easily accessible, it has a myriad of healing benefits too innumerable to list here. My sister is a well-respected Registered Dietician and swears by it. Sure hope you find some relief soon. Sending patience, strength and love. ❤
Agreed. Dan’s experience takes my breath away and hurts my Spirit. The thought of having had to go to a rehab terrified me too. Fortunately, I was at home with family to manage my taper. My brother had to research and educate himself to help firstly understand, then figure out a plan to support his sister who he deeply loves. ❤ What I know for sure now, 4 and 1/2 years free, is that it was devestatingly confusing and terribly heartbreaking for my Family. ❤
Thanks for your video. Your experience going through getting off all those drug was way worst than my experience. Much respect given. I'm only 37 months free. The bodily physical symptoms keeps coming back. It lessens then increases, keeps coming back, if it's one thing or it's another. Trying to move forward to make it in life with family, work, paying the bills, staying afloat personally and trying to find ways to heal the body with time all at the same time is very overwhelming. One day by day. I too found spirituality within me, alot of meditation, sound therapy through youtube, finding silence anywhere outside away in nature. Any advice is greatly appreciated, your journey, experience, path, healing has been much longer than mine.👍
I can relate to much of what you said. I too, had to provide for my family while healing and finding outlets for peace along the way. It's no easy road, that's for sure. I'm happy to hear that you seem to have found some things that have helped you. I always say that there's no one size fits all method for recovery.
Another inspiring and helpful video, Dan. We all deeply appreciate your willingness to be so openhearted, reassuring and generous with your time and-even more importantly-your Energy. You’re still healing too, brother, which makes your dedication to this effort-to each of us at PF-even more treasured. We love ya too, brother. Sending you love, peace and healing energy. ❤
Dan! Spoke with you on the phone yesterday! You bring a much needed relief to this subject. Anyone who wants to avail themselves of your services should not think twice! You are the kindest man I’ve ever spoken to. The relatable content you bring to your channel is second to none. I wish to thank you again for taking time out to speak with me. I will be in touch throughout my withdrawal. Jim
Thanks Jim- it was a real pleasure to speak with you. I admire everyone going through this horrendous ordeal. Look forward to speaking with you again. 🙏🏻✌🏻
Talk to your doctor about a slow taper. It took a while for your brain to get this way, it's going take a little while for your brain to get out. Look into water tapering as well. There's videos on TH-cam about it. If you're suffering to that extreme you're going too fast. Taper slowly. It might take you a year or more to taper properly.
I second that. Go VERY slowly to avoid further injury. Stabilize first though. Water titration is the method that has worked for me. Still a very painful road any way you slice it.
Hello Dan. I am 1year and 2 months benzo free.. I just had my first heartbreak in recovery and it is sooooo weird...all that emotions.. I needed to share this.
Ooh, wow, does this sound and feel familar, Maja and Dan. We “get” to feel it all now, lucky us AND? Holy s***, THIS is hard! 💔 It’s no wonder most stay asleep in their lives; nothing feels uncomfortable or hard that way. Or…real. What an incredible feat of fortitude, determination and resolve, Maja. I am truly sorry about your heartache, but I’m more ✨joyful✨ about you taking control to reclaim your health and your power. Time marches on and, thank goodness, it heals our wounds along the way. One breath, one step, Sis, you have much to be proud of. ❤️🩹
Thank you for this video, I Ct'd 5.5 months ago, and I've been struggling. I also took gabapentin but for only 12 weeks, and I fast tapered that. I've had really, really bad anxiety and SI. I have a family, and I know I need to be here for them. In the think of the waves, I don't want to go another minute, but I keep going! This really is walking through fire. I'm taking it one day at a time and sometimes one hour at a time. Again thank you for this video. It gave me inspiration.
You’re a trooper, my friend. It’s a bear coming off this stuff and not for the faint of heart. Happy that you’re at least free from the benzo prison. Now it’s just a matter of time before you start feeling a lot better, but it will come.
@@donna6165 Hi Donna sorry I haven't been in contact recently I have been going thru a difficult time. I had minor breakdown with the thought of going or taking a job. I am doing better am miss hearing from you. I hope all is well. Much Love Bob
Hey guys.. hold on. IT WILL PASS 100%... give it time.... dont do nothing,be usless who gives a fuck. Just keep going,you will be proud of yourself one day ... I am 1year and 2 months benzo free and i promise you it gets better.. First 4 to 6months are hell but in one point things turn around
The first 2 weeks of Xanax withdrawal I didn't know how dangerous it was so I thought I'd ride it out at home. Big mistake. I couldn't sleep and I couldn't relax. Every 5 minutes I had to get up because of the shakes jolts perfuse sweating and anxiety like I never felt before. Gasping for air. As bad as it was unfortunately it took a dozen more times to get off of it
Glad to see you made it threw brother. Must be a good feeling knowing all thats all behind you now. I say we all gather together an file a group lawsuit against the phyciatrist for misprescribing this poision. If thats even possible. I feel like these people know exactly what there doing. An they need to be held accountable. Just like drug dealers are held accountable.
Dan thx for this video I am nearly 6 years of, my body especially my muscles , in my neck shoulders and back are like iron cables, I am so stiff and also feel weaknes in my muscles, especially my legs, sometimes I feel so desperate. Will I ever heal? Love from the Netherlands 🇳🇱
Massages , exercise, riding on my bike every morning, a little walk. But my muscles it is the hardest problem I feel like a rock Do you have any suggestions? Love❤
I am a short term user but have severe symptoms; this is my 48th day off CT after about two months of low dose use. Your vids are encouraging, keep delivering ❤️. Do you have experience with other short term users? Can I expect faster healing than someone long term?
Hi Mirjana- yes, I’ve talked to many short term users and generally speaking, in my experience, they heal faster than long term users. However, there are exceptions. Don’t let that scare you though. 48 days off is not much at all for having severe symptoms. Give yourself time and you’ll get better. Keep going, you’ll be ok and get through this.
@@jrman413 Way better than acute, symptoms are much more manageable, some completely disappeared, some lessened, got some new symptoms meanwhile (most prominent is very hoarse voice, but after more than month and a half, this seems to finally be improving). I'm almost 5 months off now, and knowing I made it this far, I'll make more. Some days harder, some days windowish (never had a full window). Healing is happening, I can tell you this. Idk where you are in the process, but trust in your body's ability to heal, pray, don't believe negative benzo mind telling you your life is over, and just keep going. I think Churchill was the one who said: "If you're going through hell, keep going"
This quote by Teddy Roosevelt helped me when I was in benzo hell: "Do what you can, with what you've got, where you are."
Love that quote for its simplicity and practicality!
Todd, this is such an incredible Quote by TR! 👏🏻 Lovely to see you mention it here- perfectly apropos-
it took me back to my days of teaching 8th grade English where I had it on a poster board and hung over the clock in my classroom for decades. Thank you for taking my mind and heart back to a sweet memory. ❤️
I just wanted to say to anyone going thru this you are not your thoughts when going through benzo withdrawal. You are ok you are awesome 😎. I know it's easier said than done but trust me it's not you hold on the light will shine again even if you can't see it yet. This is a message to myself I just had a window seeing myself again. The windows are getting bigger and better. Just don't give up please don't give up because you are worth it. I am 1 1/2 years off and believe in my heart this is all for something great. Pain can be beautiful Don't forget to love yourself
Much love
Bob
Several times recently, maybe on benzo sites, I have seen the Churchill quote "When you are going through Hell, Keep going." That is The Best Advice! There is, unfortunately, no way out, except through it. Never, no matter what, go back.
Amen
The 2 absolutes/mantras in the Ashton Manual are: 1 You, you, are the master, captain of you're taper EVERY BODY is different.Only
you know when to take the next step in you're taper. 2. NEVER , EVER enter an in-patient re-had centre. Re-habs don't work,
re-habs don't know how to proper taper you and will rip you off the Benzo you are dependent/addicted to. In a in-patient
re-hab you will enter a hell realm that you will never believe exists. Read Kenny Loggins' book about his nightmare e time
in a in-patient re-hab. You need an experienced understanding, doctor with the knowledge to guide you through the tapering process.
I would be happy if people were always honest when discussing this. That is, always say it like it is: "Brain Damage," (Not "Benzo Withdrawal"). Please. Then, people will have an idea of the seriousness of this.
Yeah. It's nervous system an brain damage. It's even worse then withdrawal. Withdrawals last like a week to a month at the most. After that it's from damage.
It scares me a bit thinking about how all the coaches and other figures in the benzo community who are still having symptoms years out (D. E. Foster, Jenn Leigh, and Dan) we’re all on Klonopin like I was. It does seem, at least anecdotally, like it is associated with ongoing symptoms that last much longer than with the other benzos. I’d like to see some research done on that. Thanks for the video, Dan.
I agree with you about klonopin- for some reason it seems to be the bear of benzo damage. The thing to take away from our stories though, is that we have found a wonderful life despite still having some ongoing issues. A better life than I had before benzos!❤️
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you.
When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned,
Nor shall the flame scorch you.”
Isaiah 43:2, NKJV
God gave me that, too!
❤
🙏🏻
Amen!!
You could read this early out? Being that long on benzos and other drugs? Jezus you got lucky! Happy for you. Youre a great storyteller.
My goal is to get to the library now. That would be wonderful, just to get anywhere.
One step at a time. I say to myself "you can do it." Each part of the trip, talk to yourself: "okay, stairs, focus on Stairs, then find the desk that does copies,.then do the copies..after the copies, get safely back to the car",.like that. Do it in very small increments. Piece by piece will get it done! Plan out Each Portion of your task. You see, I had to go to the library last week, too! I wasn't sure I could do it, either! Next time I go to the library, I might take out a book! I will try to Read the book! It will get easier each time. Apply the small steps method to each and every task. That is the only way! I KNOW.
.
Coming upon the 6 month mark off of Ativan…still waiting in the fire. I seem to get through the days…it’s the nights that are so dark. I just keep telling myself to hang in there and that I will eventually heal.
Are you sleeping ok?
@@philosophicalfishing If it wasn’t for the severe acid reflux, I would be sleeping ok.
Hi, V. 😊 Sorry about those pesky nights; I remember how much of a challenge the dark was. The morning eventually comes for us, thank goodness. ☀️
Two things I found extremely helpful for AR:
1. ACV ( which I still take every day, even now, almost 5 years free) one tablespoon diluted in water.
2. Seltzer water
These two sound almost counterintuitive, but if you read up on AR, this will make sense.
ACV is a little miracle worker. Cheap and easily accessible, it has a myriad of healing benefits too innumerable to list here. My sister is a well-respected Registered Dietician and swears by it.
Sure hope you find some relief soon. Sending patience, strength and love. ❤
How are you now?
That sounds so bad, I don’t want to go to a rehab. I’m still hanging with my 1 mg of Xanax er. It’s only been 3 weeks. Glad you made it through! 🙏🏻🙏🏻😊
Agreed. Dan’s experience takes my breath away and hurts my Spirit. The thought of having had to go to a rehab terrified me too. Fortunately, I was at home with family to manage my taper. My brother had to research and educate himself to help firstly understand, then figure out a plan to support his sister who he deeply loves. ❤
What I know for sure now, 4 and 1/2 years free, is that it was devestatingly confusing and terribly heartbreaking for my Family. ❤
I definitely wouldn’t recommend rehab to anyone. A slow and steady taper is the way to do it.
Thanks for your video. Your experience going through getting off all those drug was way worst than my experience. Much respect given. I'm only 37 months free. The bodily physical symptoms keeps coming back. It lessens then increases, keeps coming back, if it's one thing or it's another. Trying to move forward to make it in life with family, work, paying the bills, staying afloat personally and trying to find ways to heal the body with time all at the same time is very overwhelming. One day by day. I too found spirituality within me, alot of meditation, sound therapy through youtube, finding silence anywhere outside away in nature. Any advice is greatly appreciated, your journey, experience, path, healing has been much longer than mine.👍
I can relate to much of what you said. I too, had to provide for my family while healing and finding outlets for peace along the way. It's no easy road, that's for sure. I'm happy to hear that you seem to have found some things that have helped you. I always say that there's no one size fits all method for recovery.
I'm 28 months off and still suffering badly. Do you have any advice on how to keep going on? I feel like I'm at my limit.
Another inspiring and helpful video, Dan. We all deeply appreciate your willingness to be so openhearted, reassuring and generous with your time and-even more importantly-your Energy. You’re still healing too, brother, which makes your dedication to this effort-to each of us at PF-even more treasured.
We love ya too, brother. Sending you love, peace and healing energy. ❤
Thank you, Donna!
Dan! Spoke with you on the phone yesterday! You bring a much needed relief to this subject.
Anyone who wants to avail themselves of your services should not think twice!
You are the kindest man I’ve ever spoken to. The relatable content you bring to your channel is second to none.
I wish to thank you again for taking time out to speak with me. I will be in touch throughout my withdrawal. Jim
Thanks Jim- it was a real pleasure to speak with you. I admire everyone going through this horrendous ordeal. Look forward to speaking with you again. 🙏🏻✌🏻
You're the best descibing the journey
Thanks, Mark!
I cant take it anymore. Its psychosis back to back. I am sinking, I need to get out.
Talk to your doctor about a slow taper. It took a while for your brain to get this way, it's going take a little while for your brain to get out. Look into water tapering as well. There's videos on TH-cam about it. If you're suffering to that extreme you're going too fast. Taper slowly. It might take you a year or more to taper properly.
I'm no sorry Madelyn. Do you have a doctor helping you through this?
I second that. Go VERY slowly to avoid further injury. Stabilize first though. Water titration is the method that has worked for me. Still a very painful road any way you slice it.
Madelyn, thinking of you and sending you love and strength. ❤
@@morgan6468It surely is, Morgan. ❤
Hello Dan.
I am 1year and 2 months benzo free..
I just had my first heartbreak in recovery and it is sooooo weird...all that emotions.. I needed to share this.
Without the chemicals we feel it ALL
Ooh, wow, does this sound and feel familar, Maja and Dan. We “get” to feel it all now, lucky us AND? Holy s***, THIS is hard! 💔 It’s no wonder most stay asleep in their lives; nothing feels uncomfortable or hard that way. Or…real.
What an incredible feat of fortitude, determination and resolve, Maja. I am truly sorry about your heartache, but I’m more ✨joyful✨ about you taking control to reclaim your health and your power. Time marches on and, thank goodness, it heals our wounds along the way.
One breath, one step, Sis, you have much to be proud of. ❤️🩹
Thank you for this video, I Ct'd 5.5 months ago, and I've been struggling. I also took gabapentin but for only 12 weeks, and I fast tapered that. I've had really, really bad anxiety and SI. I have a family, and I know I need to be here for them. In the think of the waves, I don't want to go another minute, but I keep going! This really is walking through fire. I'm taking it one day at a time and sometimes one hour at a time. Again thank you for this video. It gave me inspiration.
You’re a trooper, my friend. It’s a bear coming off this stuff and not for the faint of heart. Happy that you’re at least free from the benzo prison. Now it’s just a matter of time before you start feeling a lot better, but it will come.
Hi Dan, thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Amazing story of strength and perseverance.
Thanks Bob! Always great to hear from you.
Hi, B. Thinking of you and sending you love, of course. ❤
@@donna6165 Tx Donna I appreciate that and send love back to you as well.
@@donna6165 Hi Donna sorry I haven't been in contact recently I have been going thru a difficult time. I had minor breakdown with the thought of going or taking a job. I am doing better am miss hearing from you. I hope all is well.
Much Love Bob
Thank you 🤍
How long did you stay with your sister…till you ventured home. And how was that
like then….when you went home first time. maybe another video.
That is a great idea! I could definitely talk about that.
Love your videos, it keeps me going
Thanks! I plan on making many more! 🙏🏻
Good stuff Dan!!
Thanks, Kevin!
Great video Dan!
Thanks, Mark!
@philosophicalfishing your doing a great thing! Keep going bro!
I am off 3 months 7 days..my brain want to shut down and barely have any joy
I had anhedonia my first few months on and off- it was pretty frightening. You’re still very early on, hang in there, you’ll begin to feel better.
@@philosophicalfishing it is too painful and I don't wanna live anymore
@@RussConstant-g9b Don't give up.
@@RussConstant-g9bI feel the same
Hey guys.. hold on. IT WILL PASS 100%... give it time.... dont do nothing,be usless who gives a fuck. Just keep going,you will be proud of yourself one day ...
I am 1year and 2 months benzo free and i promise you it gets better..
First 4 to 6months are hell but in one point things turn around
A good video. Thank you. 😊
Thank you, Julie!
And this is medication
❤good question
Wow, great vid thanks for sharing.
Thanks, Oliver!
Congrats ❤❤❤
The first 2 weeks of Xanax withdrawal I didn't know how dangerous it was so I thought I'd ride it out at home. Big mistake. I couldn't sleep and I couldn't relax. Every 5 minutes I had to get up because of the shakes jolts perfuse sweating and anxiety like I never felt before. Gasping for air. As bad as it was unfortunately it took a dozen more times to get off of it
Unreal how terrible these drugs can damage us.
Glad to see you made it threw brother. Must be a good feeling knowing all thats all behind you now. I say we all gather together an file a group lawsuit against the phyciatrist for misprescribing this poision. If thats even possible. I feel like these people know exactly what there doing. An they need to be held accountable. Just like drug dealers are held accountable.
This is happening in some states now. It’s partially why prescribers are more hesitant to write Benzo scripts.
@@philosophicalfishing good
Mr. Landaeur, how many years did it take for you to be free of the GI issues?
I’d like to tell you something different but I still have benzo belly- although it’s much better than it used to be.
Thank you.
@@philosophicalfishingSix years since I withdrew from Benzodiazepines, stll having some benzo belly symptoms, but still getting better
Dan thx for this video
I am nearly 6 years of, my body especially my muscles , in my neck shoulders and back are like iron cables, I am so stiff and also feel weaknes in my muscles, especially my legs, sometimes I feel so desperate.
Will I ever heal?
Love from the Netherlands 🇳🇱
✨Marjorie✨😌 My one and only friend from the Netherlands. So sorry you are struggling, Sis. 🥹 Sending you a great big hug from the States. ❤
@@donna6165 how are you my dear????
@@donna6165 💋💋💋❤️❤️❤️❤️
I believe that we can all heal. Sorry you’ve been going through it so long. Have you found anything that helps?
Massages , exercise, riding on my bike every morning, a little walk.
But my muscles it is the hardest problem
I feel like a rock
Do you have any suggestions?
Love❤
Can anyone function/work do any day to day in this condition?
No I can barely move
Sometimes I can workout a little bit. But it's really hard tho.
NO, cant barely walk.
Thanks Dan. Love your positivity.
I am stuck at 1.5-2.0 mg of diazepam. Have been holding but no progress.
Just wait? I suppose.
Tempted to jump
Are you able to cut any further? How long have you been holding for?
What about liquid Diazepam....?
dont jump
I am a short term user but have severe symptoms; this is my 48th day off CT after about two months of low dose use. Your vids are encouraging, keep delivering ❤️. Do you have experience with other short term users? Can I expect faster healing than someone long term?
Hi Mirjana- yes, I’ve talked to many short term users and generally speaking, in my experience, they heal faster than long term users. However, there are exceptions. Don’t let that scare you though. 48 days off is not much at all for having severe symptoms. Give yourself time and you’ll get better. Keep going, you’ll be ok and get through this.
Thank you! I know I'm still in acute so I have to give it more time
How are you now?
@@jrman413 Way better than acute, symptoms are much more manageable, some completely disappeared, some lessened, got some new symptoms meanwhile (most prominent is very hoarse voice, but after more than month and a half, this seems to finally be improving). I'm almost 5 months off now, and knowing I made it this far, I'll make more. Some days harder, some days windowish (never had a full window). Healing is happening, I can tell you this.
Idk where you are in the process, but trust in your body's ability to heal, pray, don't believe negative benzo mind telling you your life is over, and just keep going.
I think Churchill was the one who said: "If you're going through hell, keep going"
How are you ? What syntoms did you have?
Test
Awful experience.