So i just withdraled on Effexor. Oh my god i would rather detox off of alcohol and cigarettes again, multiple times. It was hell. Brain fog, zaps where it felt like electricity going thru my brain every few seconds and nothing helped. But now im not suicidal and im gaining feelings back in my hand as it basic went numb as i was on it
@@Shad0wBoxxerno bud effexor withdraw won’t kill you unless you fall down the steps from the brain zaps alcohol withdraw will kill you just like benzos from horrible seizures if the hallucinations don’t
Honestly the "Keeps taking them just to avoid the withdrawals" applies to basically all medications for psychological issues. I was on a benzo but was taken off for something different and over the years I've worked my way up to four different medications currently. None of them are benzos and yet I'm still freaking terrified of stopping them because my pharmacy has been late filling them occasionally and has either resulted in me hiding under my blanket shaking and wanting to throw up for days or just straight up in the hospital. I mean some of them I legitimately have to stay on but at least one I just have no desire to go through all that again so I keep filling it. They're trying to transfer me from fentanyl to medical marijuana (or at least lower the dosage and find some sort of meeting ground) and I'm bloody terrified because during the fentanyl shortage I ran out and did very nearly die from it.
I was addicted to prescription benzos, as well as a handful of "research" varieties for almost 10 years. I went into a rehab facility and withdrew so badly that I ended up in the psychiatric ICU for 3 days in a psychosis. I'm almost 2 years clean now, but that experience was the most terrifying thing in my life, and I'm grateful to be alive.
Yes I've noticed that the research chemical benzos have been flourishing on the internet over the past decade or so. Congrats on recovering, shits tough.
I struggled with Xanax for 3 years I went through a whole 90 ct farmapram bottle in less than a week one time, I’m so glad I’m sober now:) the coke and the xans were so hard to stop.. I never want to take another pill in my life, I still get coke craving’s sometimes but Since my best friend passed at 24 the risk isn’t worth it with all the fetynal out there.. I get a better natural high running 10 miles a day
good for you man, ive had friend who unfortunately couldnt get clean. Even though im clean now, its been rough and definitely had some weak moments. I wish you the best my friend
Because of my addiction I lost all my friends, my girlfriend, and almost died from fake Xanax.. drugs aren’t cool, even weed/alcohol made me not motivated and I was just wasting so much time.. I still don’t have any friends, or hangout with anyone because I socially isolated myself so much. I strongly believe this is gonna be my year.. my heart goes out to anyone struggling with drugs and alcohol🙏
I was given a prescription for Ativan after ending up in the emergency room from a really bad panic attack about five years ago. I only took them when I was having a panic attack so it was never a regular thing, but I was having them multiple times a week. When I ran out I had recently switched doctors and when I asked if it could be refilled she refused and told me how highly addictive it is and she didn’t to put me at risk of an addiction because I was so young. I will forever be grateful to that doctor because who know what she saved me from back then!
I have panic disorder among other anxieties, but I only used Ativan maybe 10-15 times a year. My doctor used to resist giving me this medication to the point that I would end up in tears. Going to the doctor or running out of Ativan became an anxiety trigger. One time my apartment was broken into and the guy only stole like 4 things, 1 being my Ativan, and I lost it because it meant I had to go back to the doctor and beg him for more. I even brought the police report and he wouldn’t give them to me until I broke down. I used to get a prescription of 2-5 pills at once (because my doctor was a dick) and I would be anxious to use them because I knew to get more would be a nightmare. If I had any less than 3 pills I wouldn’t even leave my house because I couldn’t risk having a panic attack and having to use a precious pill. I’ve since changed doctors and my overall anxiety has gone down and I use maybe 3-5 a year if that. Last year I think I only used 1. A lot of my issues seemed to come from the anxiety of running out of medicine and not being able to get more and becoming “stuck” in a panic attack. I still get pretty bad anxiety about going to the doctor which is crazy because my new doctor is kind and has never made me feel like a drug seeker. I think the first doctor caused me to have a very unhealthy, almost dependent relationship with Ativan that I never had with other doctors either before or after him.
I started Ativan 15 years ago after a similar ER visit. Took it once in a blue moon, and only like 1/4 of a 0.5mg tablet. Over the last 2 years, my anxiety had crept up due to extreme stress and burnout, the loss of several close family members, and basically one crisis after the next with no breathing room. I started relying on increasing doses of Ativan to sleep, and one day I realized I was taking up to 6 or more tablets in a day to try and manage my insomnia and anxiety--and I needed to knock it off. About six weeks ago, I cut back to 75% of a single tablet at night and no ativan during the day. The rebound anxiety was weirdly delayed, hitting me hard about a week later and it's been SO HARD. 3 weeks into this adjustment, my dad died. It would have been so easy to medicate myself back into relative calm, but I've stuck with it. My resting heartrate is always 180-200bpm these days, but I know it will improve with time. Ativan has been a godsend for legit panic attacks, but it's dangerous af for generalized anxiety or long-term insomnia. I wouldn't wish this on anyone!
I went to my doctor about 23 years ago because I was feeling really mentally unwell and actually close to wanting to unalive. And when I went to my doctor I'm like I need something for the same ciety and depression but I am terrified of being prescribed things like Xanax or anything like that. And his immediate response was oh no they have the ability to potentially cause blood clots in the brain as well as having a myriad of other issues and being addictive so the most I'm going to give you is these two lesser medications that were helpful but we're not nearly as strong. And I'm very thankful for him being honest
As you should be for that great doc - good for you!!!! A close relative of mine discovered the addiction by simply ending his short RX’d “upon need” course and went through HELL AND BACK. I suspect many docs truly don’t realize how all-encompassing anxiety can be and therefore don’t realize how addicting relief of it is for many patients. These drugs are WAY stronger than they need to be. Again, GOOD FOR YOU!
@@AlexisS998 i am so happy you're better now. If you try to see this from the doctor's point of view, your case is not the rule - it's the exception. The doctor is bound by rules. He/she sees 15 patients per day, many drug seekers - it makes a doc less sensitive to pleas for benzos. People pleasing for benzos are desperate, manipulative and tricky, because benzos are so good, like a band-aid for your soul, but it doesn't heal anything, doesn't make anything better in the long run.
I took Bonzos for years to fall asleep. It took me two months to come off. I cut a sliver of a pill away a day. No withdrawal symptoms, thankfully. I strongly recommend this to anyone who wants to rid of them. There's no need to go cold turkey; take it nice and slow.
Thank you for this. When I started experiencing peri menopausal anxiety in the early 40s, I was given a prescription for Xanax. My doctor said: “You are really going to like these.” 5 years later I was still taking them, very addicted, depressed, and my marriage fell apart. I couldn’t get off them. And doctors kept renewing my prescriptions, when I needed more and more to keep from having anxiety attacks. It was awful. I finally put myself in rehab with meth and heroin users to get off them. I wish people knew how awful this drug can be. And I wish there was a backlash like the one towards opioids.
@@sadhu7191 My exwife was prescribed Xanax for her bipolar disorder. when she could not afford her health insurance after losing her job, her prescription expired and she went to a pharmacy in Tijuana to get a refill. The "Xanax" she bought from a "legitimate" pharmacy in mexico, was cut with fentanyl, and she died. RIP Heidi Ann Horner
Oh there is a backlash. I use them sparingling as emergency medication for seizres and every month is a struggle to secure my prescription. This is in UK. They are not prescribed for anxiety anymore I understand FULLY how dangerous they are. I have suffered misuse in the past and accidentally OD
I've taken benzos for 15 years responsibly. No negative effects. No addiction. Your experience was a you problem, maybe the doctors should have been more responsible but you are responsible for yourself at the end of the day. Hope you're doing better now.
@@memberwhen22 My exwife was prescribed Xanax for her bipolar disorder. when she could not afford her health insurance after losing her job, her prescription expired and she went to a pharmacy in Tijuana to get a refill. The "Xanax" she bought from a legitimate pharmacy in Mexico, was cut with fentanyl, and she died. Mexico's pharmacies have been taken over by the cartels. Look it up. RIP Heidi Ann Horner. The whole point of the affordable care act/obamacare, was to make health insurance accessible and affordable to everyone regardless of their preexisting conditions. Obamacare was a good start, but we need more. We should have socialized Medicare For All, like the majority of other developed nations. Don't judge the struggles of strangers.
After the fentanyl episode, I've had great respect for how this channel discusses why withdrawal isn't an easy thing. The fentanyl one helped me gain the courage to finally stop morphine patch, Dr and I have been trying to get me off them for my spinal issues, and I finally managed it. But I'll definitely keep an eye out if I get given Benzos in the future because the withdrawal sounds way worse and something I'd rather avoid at all cost. Especially if people usually give it to people already on the opioids. Thank you to those wishing me well. It's very much appreciated.
Jacked back here too. Used to ask for sleeping pills...Dr would give me these other 'safer' non-benzo sleeping pills...high read up on them and they have all the same issues as the benzo with some extra problems but they were 'designed' to be safer and they pharma companies told all the dr's they are safer however they are not. lol. Now high just grow plants (on my channel).
It’s so bad, it’s almost indescribable, and I’ve been through a lot of stuff in my life. Have a very high threshold for pain and suffering, but it is like tripping on acid, but you have the worst flu you’ve ever had in your life and you can’t even see straight or speak correctly. It’s not like nausea and hallucinating, it’s more cerebral. Absolutely worst feeling I have ever been through and I’ve gone through it several times. I will never touch that poison again. I hope the drug manufacturers who make all this crap they absolutely know hurts us and sometimes kills us sleep really well on their golden encrusted pillows or whatever. I almost laugh when I hear people say that smoking cigarettes is bad… A lot of the things that doctors say/said are/were good are actually literally toxic and history will reflect that like with tobacco. *Shame in them all!*
Know that Benz is aren’t nearly as addictive as opioids. However also know once addicted to benzodiazepines the consequences and difficulty of the addiction is as bad or worse than opioids. This is the paradox that keeps people unable to understand benzo addiction!!!!
I feel so weird after watching this video. I've had a benzo rx for well over a decade for PTSD. But they were always used on an emergency basis much like a rescue inhaler for asthma. The benzo was meant to throw the brakes on a day I couldn't handle or get me through serious triggering isolated events. Take them 2 or 3 days in a row and the rebound anxiety is intense. The benzo was never prescribed with the idea that it would relieve PTSD symptoms wholesale or forever. I was thoroughly educated on how long it took addiction to form & to treat my benzo as a last resort. I'm rather horrified that such enormous numbers of people treat them as magic pills.
Yeah, I had a prescription for several years, for panic disorder. I stopped taking them entirely when I realized that I was taking them more than I should or even for fun.
@@terrideleon6350 I think if you have an addictive personality, you shouldn't even mess with them. But I've had a script for Klonopin for a long time for pop-up panic attacks and the reason they give it to me is because I fill it so rarely.
Seriously it’s hell I only had to take it for a month in summer for sleep, after I stopped holy hell I couldn’t functions, I couldn’t sleep which was the worse I really thought I was going to die I will never in my life take it
I took a fairly high dose of benzos, as prescribed. I never abused it but because my doctor never told me the risks of dependency or withdrawal, I took my klonopin daily for sleep. After about a year, I had trouble refilling my prescription and ended up going cold turkey. It was horrendous. Constant shaking and vomiting, severe panic attacks that lasted hours, and eventually, I became suicidal. My thinking was so warped that I thought the rest of my life would be this way, and a I attempted to end my life. I am very lucky that my girlfriend saved my life by calling 911 on me. I spent days in the ICU. It was genuinely a traumatic experience and it could have been prevented if the US healthcare system was actually fuctional.
Did you ever have mental health therapy during and throughout your benzo days? Klonopin given to make your sleep is really a dumb thing for a doctor to prescribe. Klonopin interferes with normal sleep - REM is degraded and anxiety ensues. It's not the US health care - there are stupid doctors everywhere. If sleep was your main proboem - which I suspect - why not prescribe a very safe drug like Vesteril? I'm surprised that it's rarely used.
My daughter passed away in 2016 when she was 4 months old. After because of depression and nightmares of what she looked like when we woke up and found her, me and my wife were prescribed benzos. I took them for a few weeks and couldn’t when I went back to work and just did counseling and grief classes. She unfortunately just ate benzos for 24 hours. We are no longer together because it has consumed her. I lost my daughter to a heart defect, my wife is alive but just as lost because of benzos.
Benzos literally took 5 years of my life away from me, I cannot remember anything between the ages of 15 and 20. I'm 22 now and have been sober 2 years, and FINALLY I am STARTING to have full capabilities back. Please anyone who reads this comment, even if your DOCTOR prescribes you a benzo, ask about other options first. I'll never be able to remember the same again, and it hurts my relationships a lot. Take care everyone, drugs stink, whoever you are, youre a better person without them. Sending love.
I WISH I didn't remember anything between 15 and 22, or any age above 6 for that matter. And the only options I have been offered are allergic medicine and they do nothing.
We lost my brother to od of methadone and xanax which were prescribed to him from his family doctor. His doctor ended up losing his license because he gave numerous people these 2 drugs together and like my brother many died, I can't remember how many now but it was enough for him to get in big trouble. It's sad that so many doctors have got to where they seem to not care. RIP Josh love you brother.
Your family doctor should not be prescribing methadone. I didn't even know that was possible I thought you had to go to a clinic it's so controlled. And yeah benzos with any other kind of depressant effects the breathing and based on your body chemistry that could put you out just like a light. Hopefully you sued.
It's a real clusterfuck... Irresponsible doctors have led to so much pain and suffering, not only from the overdoses deaths and addiction they caused, but now it's impossible to get any kind of pain medicine for people who genuinely need it
@@jsully8076 Back in the 90's doctors could write a Rx for methadone for pain mgmt. I had a script for them. It was difficult getting off methadone, but getting off benzodiazepines was much worse. I'll never take benzos again.
well the thing w doctors is you dont know if your md graduated at the top or bottom of the class. another issue; do you know pple who are really book smart but cannot translate what they learn into appropriate action? i have run into more than a handful during my professional life.
Benzos has been a life changer for me. Since I researched and micro dosed, my panic attacks and ptsd were gone and I made a life for myself, creating a business, being proactive, not afraid of anything or anyone. Now that I can’t get them anymore the withdrawals suck and my ever shortening supply is being used up. I saw a doctor today and getting it legally supplied is an uphill battle. All these doctors want is to prescribe you on a SSRI.. which I’ve been on in the past and don’t want to be an emotionless cloud on autopilot. 😢
They supplements and herbs. NAC and other amino acids help with anxiety disorders. Kanna is a very powerful herb that has similar effects as benzos. The herb Kratom is also good for anxiety and pain, but it can become habit forming even addictive if it's abused. Be very careful with anything just because it isnt synthetic doesn't mean it's safe or not addictive. If used responsible Kratom can be a great tool.
Exactly I used to have 60. O.5 Xanax a month for two years. Never got addicted. Didn’t take them every day for no reason. Benzo can be a god damn life saver. They hell you slow down and focus and pay attention as well. here’s the thing. If you want to quit taking them. There is 100000000% zero reason to go cold turkey. For Christ sake they can make millions of them a day if they want to. Just cut back gradually and guess what? Nonwithdrawl. If they make your life better than just keep taking the dam things. like what’s wrong with that? they make pot legal and talk about how it medicine now then make all pills evil and unattainable. They glady give you antipsychotics though. Like wtf. we’re not all drug addicted beasts drooling at the mouth to get our hands on some precious klonopins. they don’t even get you high like at all. I mean I guess if you eat 20 of them you will black out but that’s the person whole fault not the medicines. if ppl want to get high they will. in Africa the huff jet fuel all day long it’s crazy. should gas be illegal too ? If you mention the word Xanax to a doctor your instantly scum to them. I’d settle for 10 a month for gods sake.
Exactly I used to have 60. O.5 Xanax a month for two years. Never got addicted. Didn’t take them every day for no reason. Benzo can be a god damn life saver. They hell you slow down and focus and pay attention as well. here’s the thing. If you want to quit taking them. There is 100000000% zero reason to go cold turkey. For Christ sake they can make millions of them a day if they want to. Just cut back gradually and guess what? Nonwithdrawl. If they make your life better than just keep taking the dam things. like what’s wrong with that? they make pot legal and talk about how it medicine now then make all pills evil and unattainable. They glady give you antipsychotics though. Like wtf. we’re not all drug addicted beasts drooling at the mouth to get our hands on some precious klonopins. they don’t even get you high like at all. I mean I guess if you eat 20 of them you will black out but that’s the person whole fault not the medicines. if ppl want to get high they will. in Africa the huff jet fuel all day long it’s crazy. should gas be illegal too ? If you mention the word Xanax to a doctor your instantly scum to them. I’d settle for 10 a month for gods sake.
I was prescribed Xanax for panic attacks when I was 17, and was hooked on them until my early-mid thirties. I’ve been through some horrific shit, but nothing compares to withdrawing from benzos (and alcohol). It is absolutely unbearable. Every second feels like you’re about to die and you can’t eat, sleep, or function. I was hallucinating for days and had spasms. Worst fucking part of my life.
They don’t tell you when you start (or have your first drink) that you can die from stopping. Benzos and alcohol are the only things they have to detox you even in prison! Heroin has nothing on benzodiazepines or alcohol withdrawal. But I am happy you’re one of the few able to get off
I short term used a benzodiazepine to manage PTSD that had gotten so bad I was basically constantly having a panic attack. I was not functional and would have had be inpatient without benzos. With them, I was able to continue life functioning and get therapy, and after a couple weeks I stopped the benzodiazepines. Yes, I was more anxious off them than on them and it was a little uncomfortable, but because I had treatment for PTSD which included other management tools, I no longer had constant panic attacks. I had my life back. This is the proper use for them! They can be a very powerful tool, but they need to be used in conjunction with therapy and care.
I had panic attack problems for about a month, secondary to developing sleep apnea. While I got myself on treatment, my anxiety kept spiking and I didn't sleep for several days. I was prescribed benzos for that, but the day I got the prescription I didn't need to take one because the security blanket of having a prescription and pills if I needed them meant I could relax and fell asleep
Yes,@@personzorz! Several years later, I had some life events that triggered me and I started getting panic attacks again. It wasn't as bad, but it sucked a bit. I was given a prescription for Xanax and it lives in my medicine cabinet for that purpose. Just knowing it's there in case I need it helps me as well. I've used maybe one of in the past six months. It's so helpful to have there to remind me I have control over my situation and I never have to go back to having constant panic attacks again.
I agree that they work well, but goddamn is it dangerous for them to ever be prescribed to anyone for more than a couple weeks to MAYBE a month.. Which unfortunately, they have been, in MASSIVE numbers.. It’s a huge business, and it’s screwing people up, permanently.. Unimaginable numbers of suicides are people that are on benzos, I’ve experienced the intense suicidal ideation from them, and it’s terrifying because I’ve literally never had those kinds of thoughts/feelings before in my life.. It’s difficult to even find facilities that are willing/capable of getting people off them.. Yes, opioids and the withdrawals from trying to stop them are horrific, but there’s an under the radar epidemic of millions and millions stuck on benzos and antidepressants, experiencing horrible effects on their day to day lives, and potentially totally deadly withdrawals if they try to stop..
@@booognish What's unsettling is how people can have such different responses to the same drug. I've had a benzo prescription for years to relieve occasional spells of insomnia. I haven't had any problems with them, but I take lower dosages and don't use them that often. I've never felt anything remotely pleasurable or "recreational" from taking them either, they just help me unwind and go to sleep.
After trying many anti seizure meds with No luck, The Doctor started trying Benzo’s. I’ve been on a decent dose of Klonopin for 15 years. It’s been a Godsend for Me! As I almost ended up in a Psych Hospital.
The real problem is that you are physically dependent and after being on for that long, there is going to be serious issues if you ever stop taking them. Seizures are very common when people try to get off of them. Happened to me after 3 years of taking strictly "as prescribed".
I was prescribed them after I was raped and I was on them for a while. Now I only use them once a year around the dates of the trauma as I get a LOT of panic attacks and too anxious to go out. Last winter was the first year I didn’t take them as I’m pregnant with my first baby and I’m proud to say I made it through winter with only one panic attack. If used safely and monitored properly they can be an incredible tool
I went off of them cold turkey when I was pregnant and it was awful. I ended up taking them in small doses, especially as I had just lost another pregnancy before I conceived. I was diagnosed with CPTSD 10 years ago and without them the effects of the disorder are too much. I worked very closely with my MD while I was pregnant and my child was born 100% healthy and didn't have any withdrawals, as I was warned that may be a problem. I tried to go off of them while I was breastfeeding because they warned me that was also a problem, but at the time I was in an abusive relationship and the father would often interrupt anytime I was breastfeeding and I finally gave up. My doctors recommended that I give my child formula anyway just in case. Like me my child is extremely sensitive and empathic and if I'm anxious she will get so anxious to the point where she vomits. So taking benzos and other medication to control my anxiety and other symptoms make me a much better parent and is best for both me and my child.
I also was on them after SA and during trauma therapy. I think people forget one of the benefits of them is to help with the symptoms and misery while you actually work on the underlying issue (in my case trauma). Haven't needed them since I finished trauma therapy. But trauma therapy/general trauma processing/recovery can take months to years to show any effect and if you can't function and are having constant meltdowns including SH due to something like SA, benzos are an appropriate choice while you work on that trauma. It's just not meant to be your forever solution. I weaned off over the course of several months. I'm so happy you've cut back your use, are doing better and congrats on the baby!
It's disgusting that people like yourself have to go through attacks like the one you did but I'm really glad you've taken advantage of the benefits medication can offer. Too many people criticise benzos or SSRIs, mood stabilizers etc (I'm on lithium personally) but used correctly they are invaluable. I'm surely you'll use the same strength you've shown so far to do amazing things and be a fantastic mother and role model for your child.
Got prescription benzos from my doctor to treat my anxiety when I was only 17. I took them once, felt weird, researched the side effects and threw them away. After that video I'm even more confident that was the right decision.
Similar story for me. I took Xanax twice on prescription and I absolutely hated it. Felt like all my anxiety was still going in my mind but someone was pressing down on my body so that it wouldn't react. That felt worse than just having anxiety. Absolutely zero was said to me about any risk of dependence; I just didn't like the stuff. Anyway sounds like we dodged a bullet. My heart truly goes out to those who got ensnared...
@@gordonlekfors2708 They were supposed to be for everyday use and NOT to use below the age of 18. Some doctors just throw medication at you without even knowing what they are prescribing.
@@pocklecod Thank you for describing the feeling. For me the anxiety still existed but it just felt trapped. I had the feeling that I had an endless panic attack but only mentally without my body showing or being able to show any symptoms.
I got prescribed Lorazepam to help me go to college because of agoraphobia caused by CPTSD. I was not warned it was addictive. Got hooked for about ten years, finally weaned off them in early 2020. Even with the weaning over about a three month period, the first week was...rough. Again, I was not warned of the danger...that you can die by weaning off them--I had to find it out on my own. My new psychiatrist (who did not warn me of DYING) seemed surprised that I was being cautious in the weaning process.
@hamter_mental_counsellingsee I don't get you, it's like you are really working to contradict yourself. You are mad that people get on benzos since your taxes apparently pay for that, yet you get even madder when people quit them? And go to personal attacks on the way by judging on profile pics or checking their channel? Dude, it sounds like you need some meds for that bipolarity.
That’s horrifying. I’m glad you were able to wean yourself off them in such a short amount of time. I’m in the process of weaning off the Klonopin that I’ve been taking at a high dose for almost 15-20 years! Like you, I was not warned it could be addictive. Early this year, I ran out of my meds, and spent 4 horrifying days without it (doctor was closed over the weekend, and pharmacy was out of stock). I got so sick that my partner almost took me to the ER. Once I had the pills again, I took one, laid down for an hour to let it take effect…then immediately called my psychiatrist and demanded to be taken off Klonopin for good. To his credit, my doctor was horrified this happened to me, he took full responsibility (he admitted he “really dropped the ball” and “this should have never happened”), and agreed right away to help me slowly and *safely* get off the drug so an episode like that never happens again. He said that it can take as long as 12-18 months to be completely safe about it, and he’s been great every step of the way. 6 months later, I’ve halved my original dose, I’m working with my psychiatrist and therapist to manage my anxiety and PTSD with safer coping mechanisms, and my aim is to be completely benzo-free by New Year’s Eve this year. Hopefully I won’t need any prescriptions for anxiety or panic attacks after this, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get there. I just want to be healthy.
I justwant to add in regards to using benzos in nursing homes, it is not just to sedate pts so staff doesn't have to deal with them. It is also for the pts comfort and safety. Imagine having dementia and being terrified and anxious constantly, not knowing where you are, or what is going on. Sometimes it's more humane to give a person something to calm them down, as opposed to them being fearful and anxious with no ability to reorient them or really calm them down. Not to mention the risk of a bed bound pt falling out of bed because of agitation and restlessness due to their dementia. It's just not about staff convenience, it's ultimately about pt comfort. And we use benzos with opioids in hospice all the time. It is perfectly safe if taken only as prescribed and under the supervision of a doctor.
People who have never worked in elder care, either on a personal level or professionally, often don’t get this. You can’t therapy their kind of anxiety away because their brains are deteriorating. Expanding on your statement, there is the violence factor. The public often don’t understand how violent some elderly dementia patients can be. People see an older person and assume they are frail, but fail to recognize many caregivers are the equally elderly spouse of a dementia sufferer or are living with other older people in a care facility. Sedation is also sometimes needed for the safety of other patients, staff, and family members. Even without dementia being a factor, people seem to forget what happens to a violent sociopath is often they grow into a geriatric violent sociopath. They may need specialized elder care, but are still the violent abuser at their core. They deserve to be cared for well in their own vulnerable state, but we still have to be cognizant of the fact that just because someone is old and more fragile, it doesn’t make them innocent like a baby.
I think when it comes to hospice…when someone is literally confirmed terminal and in end of life care, the gloves should come off when it comes to anything that will reduce or altogether prevent suffering.
It amazes me how you tube channels, especially this one, can report on more relevant news and provide more investigative reporting than main stream news channels. Sincere thanks and bravo to you!
@@DarkFire1536 Well the big Pharma companies are all major advertisers on the TV news programs. So there will be no balanced reporting on drugs on a venue being paid for by drug sales.
I am heavily medicated for mental illnesses but I refuse to even touch these things. I've seen what they can do to people and I will never walk down that road. I've seen what these addictions can do to people and the friends I have who went through it are lucky to be here. It hurts to watch. I can only imagine the experience is even worse.
Did you ever think that your aversion to a drug you refuse to use is what's keeping you from overcoming your mental illness or that your aversion is part and parcel to your mental illness? I am not mocking you, but , like a fear of water makes a person never learn to swim, is like a fear of a drug which reinforces some other mental problem.
@@davemattia It won't do anything to actually help my problems. It will inevitably make them worse _and_ probably cause an addiction. I don't have a particularly addictive personality but I don't like the risks associated with benzos. There's no reason for me to take them and I don't want to. I've seen what happens to people who use them and I don't want to walk that road. I just won't do it. I don't think your analogy fits here. I'm not afraid of the drugs themselves, but what they can cause. There is a slight difference here, but it is a key distinction. Not that it matters, but I have a multi-pronged treatment. As with nearly all cases, mine is complex and cannot be solved with one class of drugs alone. I can't be cured as it is but I don't want to take medication that has a high likelihood of causing more problems than it helps. I take multiple medications to help manage my conditions so I'm not averse to medication at all. Just specific groups. But more importantly, I quit dilly dallying and just started gender transition. While not directly related, it did contribute and much has been alleviated so like I said, it's complex and acting like being averse to a fairly dangerous class of drugs is a problem... is just willfully misinformed. You're not a pharma-shill, are you? Kinda giving me those vibes.
Another thing about benzos, not only do they relive anxiety and fear, THET TAKE AWAY ANY FEAR YOU MAY HAVE HAD, AND TAKE A FEW THEY ALSO CLOUD YOUR NOW FEARLESS JUDGEMENT...YOU WALK INTO A STORE AND THINK YEAH, STEALING seems like a good anxiety thing free hobby today..one time at cvs I asked the store manager to hold my bag open and keep a look out for store employees....like, yeah, handcuffs have been an unfortunate side effect
I took valium for anxiety and depression self medicated for a month or two when I was at my worst in 2020/2021 It got me out and about and social and built my life back up. Benzos were an amazing thing for me at a time the government wouldn't provide an alternative Plenty bad stories on here so I'd figured id share the one time it was a good thing.
Unfortunately, these negative stories are why people that benefit from the drug's use are unable to get that medication. Glad you were able to get medication to help you
I'm a diagnosed schizophrenic. I've been recommended benzos from doctors, psychs, government, and family. I currently take Seroquel because I've had benzos, know the effects and refuse to take them. I'm technically not supposed to be working with the dosage I'm taking, however the government out right refuse to put me on disability unless I agree to go on benzos. To the point that it feels like my doctors and the government themselves are trying to force benzos down my throat. I even had other psychs say that's disgraceful and I shouldn't be put in the position of feeling forced on to benzos, I shouldn't have to choose between being able to live and support myself or live in constant sedation and constantly feeling hung over.
That is very weird. Seroquel can be an intense drug too... And an antipsychotic. It literally makes no sense why one form of medication for your debilitating medical issue is better than another. Now I'm not saying this... But you could just SAY that you'll take them. And not. Even say you tried them and they don't work.
@@SoulDevoured yh I've honestly debated this point with myself as well, at the point of just giving into demands. My only worry is that if I'm prescribed one, I can't have the other, and at least I know I can handle Seroquel, I could just take the benzo when I feel an episode coming on, but then I also have to trust myself to actually take them.
That is awful!!! 😡 I can't believe the government can dictate you being able to be on disability based on a requirement to take certain meds. That is PURE EVIL. I am so sorry
My mother was prescribed librium before I was born having had a nervous breakdown due to losing her father to stomach cancer... I never knew until she died that this had happened. I just grew up seeing her take one of these green and black capsules every so often. I never knew what they were or what they were for either. Only when I myself became a sufferer, did I realise that she had suffered from depression. It just wasn't discussed.
I have had a benzodiazepine prescription for years because of anxiety disorder and insomnia, and I've never had any issues because I take them responsibly and sparingly. You have to make sure to treat these drugs as a last resort and try other relaxation methods first because they can be addictive if you don't keep careful control of your intake. Like opioids, they can be helpful for people who actually need them and don't abuse them, but they are just a band-aid to your problems. It's crucial to find longer-term solutions to anxiety such as meditation or therapy so you only need to take the benzos in rare cases, like severe panic attacks that won't resolve through other methods. You have to have the mindset of not using them as a crutch, and definitely don't use them recreationally.
I had one for for Valium for 6 years, my doctor took me off without notice for an issue I had with a nurse, she lied and said I was getting high with the other patients in the waiting room… the other patients were firefighters and pilots, not people who used drugs… As someone on methadone, it’s impossible to find someone to give it back but it needs to be on a personal basis, I had a clear need for them as a teen and if I was treated for my anxiety as a child, there’s a good chance I would have never gotten addicted if opiates. Untreated anxiety caused my depression which is currently causing more mental health issues which is ridiculous, I am trapped by my severe social anxiety and haven’t gone out in years due to it. This is the closest I get to socializing with people, I’m not on disability but I’ve seen people on it for much less, and that’s a big part of my current depression, the lack of money. Issues pile up and people should be treated as individual cases.
You’ve hit the nail on the head. I too have been prescribed Alprazolam (generic name for Xanax) for anxiety and insomnia. I try to never use them but when I’m confronted with those rare nights with racing thoughts they are a Godsend. It’s important you don’t increase your usage because that’s when problems arise. Be responsible.
Knowing you have a viable, fast acting, non-toxic out is a very big confidence booster when dealing with anxiety or panic. In therapeutic doses the right prescription is a life-changer to people who need it. Like anything this needs caution and responsible administration. It is not a cure-all but it is incredibly effective.
I also take them sparingly for anxiety. I recently had a bad case of the flu with bad muscle cramps - I used one per night - got relief. I am thoughtful about my use of drugs and respect the science. I use other drugs for my anxiety on a daily basis (non benzodiazepines).
Thank you for highlighting the problem with these prescription meds being used inappropriately long term. I’m a physician and I have a few patients that I’ve inherited that will respond to NO REASON I can give about how bad they are when I am always trying to taper them down - they are physiologically dependent on them and will cling to them like an addict when in reality these are everyday people who are hooked on them. I die a little inside every time I get a new patient from somewhere else establishing care asking for benzos because some other doctor had them taking them and they can’t go without them now but also refuse to taper down. Some have other comorbid substance abuse histories in remission but live on the edge of a relapse if their anxiety goes untreated so I’m afraid to turn them away in fear they may backtrack into old ways of illicit use if I’m not the one prescribing it and monitoring them. My old hope is treating their problems like we SHOULD be doing at the same time and hoping one day they’ll be ready to come off these meds.
I have epilepsy after a head injury that also left me with anxiety and sleep paralysis/sleep deprivation. Every 6-12 months my sleep cycle would be thrown off and nothing would work. My doctor eventually prescribed Zopiclone at half strength, between 3-7 tablets and told me only to take them in emergency if I hadn't slept in more than 24 hours. They explained why they were hesitant to prescribe more and I was extremely grateful for not putting me on the path to benzo addiction. It would have been easy to prescribe me benzos to treat anxiety, sleep deprivation and seizures but they chose not too. Had I gone down that path however, I would again be extremely grateful to any doctor or physician willing to help me taper down and eventually get off of them as I'm a firm believer that there is no miracle drug to treat anxiety or sleep issues and it's better to not be reliant on any medication long term to truly be happy and have manegable anxiety although I don't discount it can help in the short term. I've also switched doctors at times due to relocation and was once offered stronger benzos but stuck to my original doctor's advice. I've had some people tell me I'm soft as half strength Zopiclone is very weak and not even a true benzo, I truly don't know and just trust my doctor on this one. I've seen benzo addiction and I want no part in it. Anyway the intent of this post was to highlight the fact that some of us are grateful that doctors or physicians like yourself exist and whilst it may not always seem like you're doing the right thing you 100% are. Thank you 🙂
I'm a pharmacy technician and I'm happy to see there are doctor's like you still. It seems like so many of the local doctors in my area give these out like candy, as well as opiods and adhd meds. It especially bothers me when the patient is on suboxone along with benzos.
I wish we had doctors like you here in the UK. Here, the corrupt bunch that call themselves "doctors" - who usually don't speak English - want everybody on tranquilizers, antidepressants and painkillers. Not suffering fropm anxiety or depression, I have so far had tranquilizers pushed and forced on me for severe dystonia (the correct treatment would be surgery or Botox but Botox doesn't work in very severe cases like mine), antidepressants for dental abscesses (correct treatment: antibiotics and dental treatment), painkillers and tranquilizers for ovarian cancer (correct treatment: surgery and possibly other follow up treatment), painkillers for scoliosis (correct treatment: surgery). When I refused heavy duty tranquilizers (Clonazepam) for dystonia (for non-medics reading this: dystonia is a rare movement disorder) I was labeled a "difficult and non-compliant patient", I got screamed at, threatened, and I continue to get surgery denied. I am severely disabled due to the dystonia being so severe, ie I am totally bedbound unable to even sit up or see to my own personal hygiene. I have been left to rot in my own filth and I get told to "just take tranquilizers so you won't be aware of what's happening to you", "just go into a care home" (I'm a young woman, not someone already with one foot in the grave) and "just top yourself then"!!! All by doctors (neurologists to be precise). My primary care physicians couldn't possibly care less, they refuse to see me in person since 2019 and so have never seen me since I became disabled (in 2021), and so they deny that I am profoundly disabled and have dystonia. And because they deny my severe disability, I cannot get any support. All they offer is tranquilizers and painkillers. My local pharmacy, which is next door to the doctor's office, only stocks antidepressants, painkillers and tranquilizers (and a few abortion pills) because that's all that the doctors prescribe. If one does need anything else, it needs to be ordered in. When I could still walk and drive (yup I was perfectly fit and healthy until dystonia hit), I used to go to that pharmacy and I saw it for myself - rows and rows of tranquilizers, antidepressants and painkillers and nothing else, and patient after patient coming in to file their prescriptions for these poisons. I've never come across any patient other than me that came in for anything other than that. I could literally call the doctor's office and ask for enough tranquilizers and painkillers (opioids) to knock the entire neighborhood out, the prescription would be at the pharmacy before I could say "thank you" and if I were that way inclined, I could do so and then sell that stuff on the black market and make a bunch of money. Apart from being severely disabled though, I also got a conscience and so couldn't live with myself if I knew people might have died because I supplied them with substances I know to be dangerous and to cause premature death. Apart from that, it would be pointless anyway though given how doctors here dish these poisons out like candy - no questions asked. I'm also constantly in trouble for not being on these drugs. Each time I have to get taken to hospital, I get asked "what medications are you on". When I say "none", it's always the same - "you are just confused, do you not know what you are on", "why are you not on antidepressants and tranquilizers", "let's quickly get you on tranquilizers, antidepressants and painkillers"! What's the agenda???
Eh to counterpoint this- I was on benzos for 10 years for SEVERE panic attacks and agoraphobia, tapered down off them accordingly and was totally off of them for 2 years. It was the worst 2 years of my life, constant panic, dread and the agoraphobia came back. I went back on them “as needed” but the rebound anxiety you get the day after taking them for a panic attack is so awful that I eventually got back on them daily and have zero regrets. My overall panic is manageable again and I’m no longer agoraphobic. Please understand that for some patients these meds ARE a daily necessity and their panic is so severe that tapering down (no matter how slow) will cause them to spiral. I hate being on meds daily, but I much prefer it to being in a constant state of panic of fluctuating between sedated and rebound anxiety.
My grandmother was a lifelong drug addict to multiple substance, and Xanax was one of them. She had taken some, and then overtook her blood thinners (she likely forgot that she had already taken it that day). It wasn’t the first time she had done that, but this was the only time that she hadn’t been found. Yeah, she died and my pregnant cousin was the one who found her a few days later. This was over a decade ago, and that’s not even the only terrible thing that’s happened to my family members while on Xanax (mostly car accidents).
I always thought it was odd that elderly people, like my late grandmother, would be prescribed something like Xanax, when she already suffered from occasional 'balance' issues'... Why are doctors prescribing medications that are known to cause 'balance issues' to elderly patients who have difficulty walking normally even when NOT MEDICATED?!? And cause of death, she fell into her own swimming pool at 90 years old and drowned. It was a tragedy, and likely occurred simply because she lost her balance...
@@StreetPreacherr omg I am so sorry to hear about your Grandmother! That’s a tragedy! This is why I tell my nana to tell me if she gets prescribed any new medication. I do not trust doctors, one tried getting her on an antidepressant! She’s never been depressed in her life! I’m super happy she’s confident in my advice😊
Thank you for covering this topic. I know someone extremely close to me who was prescribed benzos and has been through a horrible experience because of them. Needless to say, there is an alarming lack of awareness among those who prescribe them about the extremely harmful side effects; and these professionals dole out benzos like they're packets of sweets. It's horrible.
@@somerandomduck2023 "Based off pure narcissism". I disagree, it should be " Based off of pure greed fostered by being born, brought up and maturing in a capitalistic society in wich anything that doesn't have monetary value has no value and anything that can bring you money is morally right to do".
@@somerandomduck2023 if you don't believe me, go search Purdue pharma and oxycontin. You will see how PHARMA made everything possible to sell more of this pain killer
@Lycan And where does the lack of regulations come from ? From lobbying, Big pharma and corporate interest are publicly known to spend billions in lobbying in Washington and New York. Why do regulators give more credit to the voice of corporations than they do the voices of the citizens ? Because corporations have money power. And money is all that matters. Capitalism social structure is similar to the feudal system. Except the kings are the central banks. The aristocracy is the commercial banks and financial institutions. The nobility are the big corporations that cater to the stockholders (wich are NOT common citizens). The clergy are the media who, through the sacred words of neo-liberalism, calm down the plebians in an almost opiated apathy. And lastly the plebians, peasant and knuckles draggers are you and me.
As a former abuser of each and any benzo for the best part of 15 years this story hits the nail on the head , im two months clean now after going through rehab . It was the seizures that finally made me want to stop but not a day goes by where I can’t help myself from thinking of them .They are fantastic when used properly but inevitably lead to a slippery slope .
27 years old, from Sweden. Wrote this comment on another videos as well, and got so beautiful responses. So if it might inspire someone or just to relate, I’ll be grateful. 2,5 years ago, around this time, I was rushed to the emergency because I swallowed 35-40 pills of Valium together with a liter of liquor. I just wanted out. My relationship had crumbled, my family was in turmoil and I had took the biggest relapse in gambling ever. Just a week before everything had sort of got taken care of, I had the economy under control. But that relapse teared a whole in my soul as well as completely shattered my financial situation. A result of a downward spiral starting at 19y to 24y. Anxiety, depression, addiction and a lot of self hate. 3 years of Valium because of the constant anxiety. I tried to take my life that night. I really thought I’d die. But i didn’t. In my head everything was ruined. I thought everybody hated me. Was tired of me. Honestly, I hated myself. Long and bumby story short - I stopped taking Valium, cold turkey. It was a living hell for 4-5 months. Everyday for two months I got worse. I thought I was dying as well as losing my mind. To quit benzodiazepines was indescribable. It was as if something had poisoned me entire body and mind. And then, I lost my apartment. Fast forward - I am today sober from everything. A drink now and then. I am quite happy. I managed to stop gambling. I am in a new relationship and my family is in a good place. Also, I’ve made some new friends who I share the love of making music with. And last year I started a business which is going very well. I am paying of my debts quickly and still living a pretty decent life. And also, I got a pretty great apartment. I never thought I’d recover. The journey I’ve done is not a fun one. Mostly pain, anxiety and hopelessness. But it turned around, slowly. Mostly thanks to myself but also my family and an amazing therapist. Just wanted to share this if anyone is in a similar situation. I know how broken a person can feel. But, it will get better. You know what to do, the things you don’t want to think about is the things you need to do. If I can do it so can you. You need to try to empathise with yourself. Really try to feel love towards you. You can be your own best friend or worst enemy. Love from Richard
You have no idea how much I needed to read that right now. Thank you. I’m reading your words twice because I’m feeling so terribly broken and ruined and all I want is to relapse on Valium, a lot of it, after 8 years. But I can’t even escape that way because my dear father made me promise I wouldn’t before he recently died. He was a clever old man - he knew I’ll never stop trying to make him proud. He’s the reason I realized I had a problem, lovingly helped me through it, and cheered me on at every milestone. I lost so much to that Valium, I lost years I wish I’d spent with my dad. Now he’s gone, I’ll never have them back, and I’m stuck here on this earth goddamn sober to feel it all. Every waking moment hurts. But you were brave enough to speak out to give others like me hope; I sincerely appreciate the late night help. It gets dark in my head, especially when the world is quiet. Best of luck and many blessings to you from an American Swede in Washington State ~
@Dr Hamter L.M.H.C. You're just a hateful person who is so miserable with themselves that you're trying to make other people miserable. It's not going to work. Enjoy screaming into the void. I hope you seek therapy in order to become a better, less hateful person.
Been on Clonazepam for 4 years for panic disorder, GAD and social anxiety disorder. It totally changed my life when nothing else would. Not exercise, not anything else. Now I can live a somehow decent life. Just don't ABUSE them. I know they are addictive, but I'll never go back to being afraid of everything, staying home every day with all doors locked and having panic attacks every day.
There are other options man. I’ve been diagnosed with severe PTSD and GAD, and there is no way I would ever even take ONE benzo. Beta blockers, THC, and the ability to take life as it is and not need a fucking baby binky is how I do it. Kick the junk and admit you like feeling high.
They have helped me alot. Im just not happy that children are given them. I feel like children should be treated differently considering there brains are different and klonopin Xanax and volume cause memory problems. How can a student in middle or elementary school remember what there being taught. I have PTSD. Im sorry I doubt children well a lot of children have what I have. Or the extreme panic and fear. I would like them supported and helped with non benzos counseling exposure therapy and lots of support. Im sorry. I just don’t think there any good for children. Even though yes I take Klonopin bc I quit my Xanax and had a severe seizure it was aweful. I just don’t think it’s okay for kids it is not the first thing they should try is what I’m trying to say I guess. Idk. Anyway I hope everyone who understands panic fights through it. Your not alone.
We had issues with my mother, who was suffering with Alzheimer's, where the nursing home was giving her klonopin. We couldn't even take her off the drug, because the effect on her would have been horrific and confusing for her. They began cutting her dose down once we moved her to a better home but she died before she was free of it. Saying that, I've been prescribed Diazepam for the last 5 years, but only take them when absolutely necessary, so maybe once or twice a month. Any drug is a two edged sword, and I personally am not sure how I feel about this one...
That’s a tough one, dude. My Nan is on Valium, I’m prescribed Vyvanse, Lexapro and Zyban. I don’t know how to describe it, but my grandmother is a different person each time I visit. Sometimes she appears very, very, agitated and other times she is _her old self,_ if you will. I don’t know how to explain it, but it makes me upset to see her in those states. Some of these pills have some gnarly side effects. I hope you are doing better 👍
As someone with panic disorder, I can’t make it through a day without a benzo. I was a wreck, nearly losing everything, for six months before I got a prescription. I’ve taken benzos daily for 4 years and they saved my life. They have their uses is all I’m suggesting.
I posted something similar. They've impacted my life for the better. They're not right for everyone, but they're right for me and my doctors treatment plan.
I feel the same way. However in my particular case the tolerance increased so I'm taking more dosis ( prescribed) me and my psychiatrist been working hard to reduce dose.
I don’t agree. They are literally changing your brain chemistry. You can do that with meditation, yoga, healthy diet, excercise and even massive change of your environment and life style. But you do you, if you wanna be a slave to a chemical and the system to live life… that’s your life. This is coming from an addict who used many substances and thought some were beneficial for my brain chemistry. Now that I’m 100% sober and found what works for me I feel better than ANY chemical ever could do for me.
As a gp I saw countless people on benzos, and the ones I researched how they got on the benzo train almost all were documented in the beginning of being told "this is a very temporary solution and is not to be taken daily". Then it became daily, then dosages started rising. Even the zopiclone/zolpidem sleep meds are highly addictive
Thank goodness zopiclone has that fantastic side effect of tasting copper for at least 12 hours after waking. I love getting a full good night's sleep, but the taste the next day was not worth it. Whatever is in zopiclone that makes that taste should be put in Xanax bars and any other abused benzo. I had a raging Xanax addiction back in 2009, so much that I actually overdosed after walking to the mall... after taking 8 bars in the summer..in Vegas. I did not stop getting a Xanax prescription until 2019, and I was switched to Valium. Valium works better, and I can function and not abuse them. With Xanax, my ex had a different name for me because I acted like a totally different person and wouldn't remember doing any of it. He would have to tell me. 'Xantanex' did some crazy shit in Vegas and if he wasn't there, I don't know *literally* anything I've done on more than one bar. I'm now trying to work on cutting slowly down on Valium while trying CBT therapy even though CBT is basically brainwashing (imo)
@@HorrorHermitofHell Try grasping the idea that "brainwashing" does NOT make something inherently evil. It depends on what exactly you're washing... What I mean is that brainwashing and indoctrination are EVERYWHERE... for EVERY little thing. From schools setting schedules for children to become "good little 9-5 worker drones" to bootcamps turning perfectly decent people into industrialized murderers to even cartoons and movies "G.I. Joe'ing" all the Boys, and "Betty Crocker'ing" the Girls... Society has LONG used stories and narratives from folk lore to religious doctrine to "tune people up" for a tighter relationship standard with society, itself. What defines the "Evil" of brainwashing is the intent and result. Working toward "washing out" the addiction and related struggles to be replaced with coping mechanics in the moment, and healthier practices to reinforce your self consciousness and self worth might actually be good for you IN SPITE of being "basically brainwashing"... ;o)
@gnarth d'arkanen I know this. I think my issue with it the first time was that it was in a group setting of complete strangers with the instructors giving us a handout of one raisin and a sheet of paper that tells us what to do with the raisin. "Pick it up. Is it heavy? Do you feel the lines and ridges in the raisin?" Etc etc This time, I will be trying it in a one on one setting, and hopefully, there will be no lone raisins to describe. It was an exercise, and I understood that, but I'm pretty sure only 2 other people did, and the other 10 were just going through the motions like a court ordered program. The instructor was the person who told me it basically was brainwashing, just with healthier goals in mind. It kind of weirded me out to be in a group doing brainwashing exercises... kind of cultish to me in a way. The focus was on being mindful, and I swear that word gives me PTSD now only because it shocked me that people had to be told to be mindful of themselves and others.
@@HorrorHermitofHell That's not brainwashing... It's insulting... REALLY??? A friggin' raisin and a brochure of instructions??? What it sounds like you SHOULD be getting is a "Meditative Exercise"... Something that can start really simple, and then steadily grow in complexity as you learn and develop, but is also relaxing, fun, and exciting all together... Yes, that IS possible... I get that the raisin is an exercise, but there's no good to come of a process that started out as an insult to your intelligence... Nobody establishes rapport or trust by demeaning or degrading the other person(s). I'm bordering on an idiot and I know better than that... Anyways... Maybe in the interest of building rapport with your next/new therapist, you can bring up some ideas of your own (interests or possible hobbies) to suggest a better exercise to quiz you about while you come for this one-on-one stuff... They can ask you all the same questions as with the raisin while you go... and probably more... get you "out of your head" to think about what you're so interested in... build on the meditative process as much as the hobby-skill(s)... and go from there... Not going to pretend to know all the answers, so this IS ONLY a suggestion. Might help... might only let you in on "this person's only here for the damn paycheck"... or might actually work out a compromise... Worst they can say is "um... no, let's don't do that." Right? I meditate on a motorcycle, but that's not exactly conducive to a one-on-one session with anyone. The wind-noise alone ruins any chance at conversation... AND it's not likely a therapist wants to join me while I meditate at 90 mph... haha.. BUT there's always D&D or other games with books, dice, and "theater of the mind" to build the visuals and create stories, no matter where you get "inspiration" or how you code "this is what triggers me" into the storyline... If that might help... I know it has helped make me a better person than the despicable SoB I might've been otherwise... ;o)
I was addicted to benzos for 3 years, and have taken an absurd amount to chase my high. I remember laying in bed unable to move, and I could feel my breathing shallowing. I laid there unable to even care about what was happening, and remember waking up the next morning thinking, “Am I alive?” It was a terrifying experience and I’m still not sure how I’m alive. Benzos are a horrifying epidemic, and I pray they crack down on it soon.
@@danieln7777 My exwife was prescribed Xanax for her bipolar disorder. when she could not afford her health insurance after losing her job, her prescription expired and she went to a pharmacy in Tijuana to get a refill. The "Xanax" she bought from a "legitimate" pharmacy in mexico, was cut with fentanyl, and she died. RIP Heidi Ann Horner
I was forced to stop and the withdrawal was absolutely miserable. This was about 5 years ago and I still wish I had them every single day. It really was a magic pill for me and I’d get back on them in a heartbeat if they were prescribed anymore.
Absolutely been clean for 6 years still have seizures but they are rarer and less intense as time goes. My trust in doctors was ruined forever(prescribed at 17 to alprazolam) instantly addicted. No more anxiety, and if one is good 2 is better 10 is great. Bad news. Best of luck, it does get better but its slow going and the anxiety is so so much worse now. Truly wishing you the best i found shrooms more helpful than anything.
i use lorazepam for my severe catatonic episodes, its pretty much saved my life during them. they can be extremely useful but there really does need to be more caution used when prescribing them due to how addictive they can be
I hate this epidemic. I’m on a very small dose of benzos, that I desperately need. Before benzos, I’d have regular, crippling panic attacks. I’ve passed out at grocery stores, pulled over on the freeway, at work, etc. I’m very responsible, never abuse them (honestly I’ve seen horror stories, and have no desire to go down that path) and it’s getting harder and harder to get my medication. I get it’s like a safety thing, but my quality of life is piss poor without them. I wish kids never found these things.
I didn’t find out Im autistic until I was 19. I was prescribed adhd medication and different ssris and nothing helped my anxiety. I’ve also tried a few other “anxiety” medications, and hydroxyzine gave me a psychotic episode. So I got a prescription for Xanax. I only take it when I have meltdowns, but it helps a lot. And knowing I have them makes me more willing to do things I couldn’t before like going to a grocery store. And my mom has an undiagnosed nerve condition where her nerves just fire randomly and it’s really painful, and gabbapentin (however you spell it) is the only thing that helps. Just because some people are irrisponsible doesn’t mean that should hinder another’s ability to get a medication that will help them.
as someone who pretty regularly takes prescribed amphetamine tablets i absolutely understand your sentiment however while it may help some people, the long term efficacy of benzos really is questionable, particularly on account of the rebound effects and the frankly unprecedented increase in risk for degenerative illnesses. im not saying in the meantime it shouldent be giveing them to people like yourself but there really should be more of a search for a replacement
@@therideneverends1697 I do agree with that too. If they found something that works just as well, but is safer, I'm all for that. I've never had any adverse reactions from benzos, I know people that have (seizures and addiction), but people misuse all kinds of things. I just don't like being punished for others mistakes. I have to suffer a low quality of life because other people can't be trusted. Quite frankly, it sucks.
You're right. In a perfect world, they would stop giving them out like candy, but people who really need them could still have access with the permission and close supervision of their doctor. But again, 12,290 died in 2020 with the help of benzos according to the NIH. You can't just ignore a number like that.
6:47 I feel the need to point out that while dementia continues to be a concern (I have o sign a waiver every year). The correlation between dementia and benzo usage continues to decline and is below 50% at the last conversation with my doc.
My mom was a classic benzo addict from the start, and this began when dad had her placed in a psych ward for a very short period of time, when my brother, sister and I were very young. Mom came out of the hospital with prescriptions for both Librium and Valium. She kept taking them for years, which involved some creative "doctor shopping". She would also occasionally crush up some of her pills and put them in glasses of orange juice, which she would serve to us three kids when we were cooped up in the house and were becoming restless and unruly.
Simon. I've been an avid viewer for years and never thought you'd cover something so close to home! Benzos are a miracle and a curse in the same breath.
Benzos also drain all inspiration from me. They feel like losing yourself and it just not really bothering you. Forgetting your life sucks. Also, they get rid of most inhibitions causing people to do uncharacteristic things like shoplift and disregard their life. A good friend of mine got shot and killed while on Xanax and I'm pretty sure he didn't see the danger in front of him. It sucks. Stay away if you were unaware.
Honestly, all of this completely depends on how you use them. I've had absolutely horrific insomnia periods - I'm talking my brain is mush, I haven't slept in over a week, I wish someone would just knock me out with a blunt object but when I lie down and close my eyes, I still don't sleep. It's physical torture. I take half a clonazepam on an as-needed basis, which is never more than one or two nights every few months, sometimes even less. It's an incredible relief to know that I don't have to suffer that kind of insomnia, and that I can treat it relatively easily if I need to. This video focuses on misuse, daily use (which you shouldn't do), mixing it with other drugs ( DEFINITELY don't do) and the most extreme side effects. It would be good to see a slightly more balanced approach, rather than just the 'scary and shocking' side.
I feel like the daily use thing is a misprescription thing and negligence on the doctors end (since they themselves are probably miseducated on how the medication works) since so many other pills can be taken daily like cholesterol control pills (mainly the statins) and vitamins. I think antipsychotics/antianxiety meds shouldn't be under that category. On that hand, no quick acting med should be prescribed that way, only the slow release meds should since it's designed to last all day or night or when needed (I guess for the last would also be not daily).
I completely agree. My opinion aligns with yours. I myself refused anti depressants when doctors wanted to prescribed them to me, while at the same time I would never ban them. They can quite literally save lives in some instances.
Absolutely agree, but the "scary and shocking" side is more the commonality than the exception. To be honest, you're the exception. Good on you for not allowing yourself to get caught up in them, as many...maybe even most, people do. Just like opioids, the whole situation ruins it for those that actually need them.
@@michaelconnolly7408 My mother uses sleeping pills when she has trouble sleeping. When she gets into one if periods when she can't sleep it is either that or she will have nights with very little sleep which basically makes her unable to work and normally function. I myself refused anti depressants when I was prescribed them because I knew they could cause addiction. I asked the doctors for blood pressure medication instead as high blood pressure is a very real threat to health and blood pressure medication can't cause addiction. Since I was 16 at the time back then I was refused. Later I got blood pressure medication.
@Bitcoin DCA They were paid by the pharmaco mafia. It is bizzare that a country like China allowed a Western company to turn their citizens into addicts. You would think that their government would be extra careful with anything that comes from the West, especially drugs.
Thank you so very much for covering this subject. I was prescribed Klonopin in 2008. My dosage was gradually increased over the years and now I am prescribed the legal max. I've tried many times to taper myself off of them, and have gone right back to taking them due to the withdrawal symptoms. You are spot on about taking them just to "stay well". I'm ready to come off of them with medical assistance, if I have to. The problem is finding a DR. who understands that you can't use the same method to step down as someone who was responsibly prescribed for just a few weeks vs. several years of daily use. Again, thank you. The general public in the US need to know the dangers of this drug.
I used to combine xanex & methadone. It amazes me that I'm still here but I believe my reason for surviving is to spread awareness & share my story. To try & help others. I have a scar over my left eye from a seizure I had while going through benzo withdrawals. At the same time my poor body was going through opiate withdrawals. I was wearing sunglasses inside because I felt like complete shit! Next thing I remember was waking up in the floor with a crowd standing over me. I was bleeding from a deep gash above my left eye. My head struck the corner of a coffee table with my sunglasses on. They broke & split my left eyebrow into. I was waiting to be admitted to a rehab but took a trip to the hospital instead that day. I had agoraphobia & severe panic attacks following for a while. I only take zoloft now for anxiety & I'm fine with that. I do daily yoga now to manage anxiety. Eat clean & just take my zoloft. It's made a huge difference!!! I will never take another benzo again as long as I live or opiate, unless I HAVE to. There is no pill out there that can take away all anxiety. What does work over time is lots of hard work reframing old habits & thoughts. Exposure therapy & learning how to turn your parasympatetic nervous system on. Eating right, limiting caffeine, exercise, etc. CBD can be helpful too. It was CBD & yoga that got me through the rough beginning of starting zoloft. The start was rough but after a few months, the sun came out again & everything was different. It was easier to work on my reframing & exposure therapy. I will add that I'm not telling anyone not to take benzos, but use extreme caution & awareness when you do. My doctor had written the script for me to take 2 a day, not 2 as needed but 2 a day. As young as I was at the time I did not know what I know now. I took them as prescribed & suffered significantly.
Me too 200mg of methadone plus 4 or 5 xans at once and after a while I just started buying flualp and other rcs that were legal at the time and dosing those plus a bit of h every now and then , I od and died a few times but not once during that time period
Started Xanax to treat my severe panic attacks and anxiety disorder - ended up getting hooked onto it for 7 years because of personal mismanagement... Please, if anyone is reading this - if you're taking Benzos, or whatever psychiatric medication you are taking, be careful and always follow your physician's directions. Been clean for two years and I cannot imagine myself being in that hole again.
Just wanna say make sure the physician is a good one first! I followed a doctors direction on the doses, I was not informed about them being addictive and I also ended hooked up on xanax, experienced a withdrawal and I had no idea what that was at the moment, I was delirious and all. Horrible. I hated forgetting everything and just stopped taking them, had to treat the addiction for 3 months with another doctor and another substance. The first recommended xanax 1mg daily and 0,5mg if I have a panic attack. After 2 weeks on xan the panic attacks were constant and lasted up to 10h.
@@jasminegallella8208 That is true… especially in countries where doctors can sell medication, benzodiazepines are an easy way out to improve your problem short term - but not actually solving the root
Thank you for handling this subject with the compassion and empathy I feel the people who have gone through it deserve. The mentally ill who actually ask for help and are willing to try different remedies, sometimes to our extreme detriment, are the truly strong and amazing people on this earth. People who have not been through it have no clue and need to stop judging. Especially the medical community. It’s their literal job to help us. And some of the snobbiest, cruelest people I’ve ever known in my life are doctors and nurses. I know there are a lot of great ones, but the bad ones screw up their reputation.
I worked in numerous ophthalmic offices for about 6 years and that experience thoroughly demystified health care workers to me. There were a lot of kind and well meaning people, but there were just as many that either didn't care about the well being of their patients or who made active efforts to exploit them for gain or just for the sheer joy of bullying.
I've been on a prescription low-dose benzo for over a decade to deal with epilepsy and PTSD (fun cocktails?) . It can aid with some epilpesy meds to keep seizures controlled. So, yeah, I'm not apologizing if it helps me stay *seizure-free for years and years*!
Yeah, I have CPTSD and occasional super-fun panic disorder. On the up side, it's now been (checks calendar) wow, five months since I've needed a dose, so that's nice. My neurologist also monitors my usage very carefully.
I took alprazolam and then Clonazepam for years for my depression and anxiety but I can't say I became an addict. I've always had a huge respect for my meds and never take more than the dose my psychiatrist prescribed even when I sometimes think the meds are not 'working'. Last year my doctor took me off Clonazepam, but game me an extra med for a short period of time to help me cope with withdrawals. All I can say is never ever take more than the dose your doctor prescribed you and never self-medicate. Education is also a great tool, so do your research and learn every bit about whatever meds a doctor prescribes and when the time comes for your doctor to wean you off a certain drug, don't resist.
I have epilepsy, and it was watching patients firsthand at the retail pharmacy I worked for battle their Benzo addictions that made me swear to never let my neurologist prescribe me Clonazepam. I have been on many seizure medications and still have many more options before I may have to break that oath, but each therapeutic failure brings me closer and closer to breaking down. It’s hard because I used to speak to patients who would tell me that they’d been seizure-free for years because of Clonazepam. I want that relief too, but the cost of addiction is too great. These same patients who would minutes before be telling me how great the drug was would go into a blinding rage when the pharmacist would tell them that they couldn’t refill it until the next day. 28 days out of 30 was the earliest my retail pharmacy could do, same with maintenance opioids. And while these patients would still have two days on hand, they would scream and cry and beg the pharmacist that their anxiety would skyrocket if they didn’t have a certain number of pills on hand. I couldn’t deal with that kind of need for a drug. I will only succumb if my options somehow run out, and, for now, that seems unlikely.
Have you tried a ketogenic diet for your epilepsy. For some people the seizures stop or become less frequent when their brain uses ketones for fuel instead of glucose. 🤔🤓🍻
I use Clonazepam for when I feel an aura coming on, pre-seizure. I have tried multiple different seizure meds over the last 30+ years, but I have only started to feel the aura in the last couple years. The clonazepam makes it so the seizure doesn’t occur, or if it does, it isn’t severe. No meds have ever been able to fully prevent my seizures. My neurologist only gives be a prescription for 15 pills to make sure I don’t form a habit on that (as I have a VERY addictive personality……..) Wishing you the best from Michigan 😊
Sounds like you've got crazy Karens on klonopin running loose, not just regular people. It really saddens me that you won't try a proven treatment out of fear from all the hype, but the decision is, of course, one that only you can make.
I just wanted to add this: There are cases where there is no good option, for example I've tried 6 different antidepressants from several drug classes, antipsychotics for anxiety/insomnia, mood stabilizers, etc. I however found exposure to work, but I do personally know several people with severe, and I do mean severe anxiety who tried everything I tried and didn't get help from therapy, and for them there isn't another option than benzos. This however is a very small fraction of the population. Same thing applies to opioids, though there I have tried everything and actually have ended up on opioids since it's literally the only thing that works (muscle relaxants, paracetamol, nsaids, antidepressants all failed my pain). Just remember that sometimes there isn't a better option. A lot of people have very, very strong opinions about these medications but clearly don't have even a tiny bit of experience with living with anxiety so severe that it makes you physically ill (chills, can't breathe, chest pain, 150bpm pulse, numb limbs, headache, etc) or pain that makes you consider suicide more than depression ever did. All I'm saying is don't entirely discount these drugs, however yes I do agree they need to be given only under certain circumstances: for example when other treatments were first tried, and there needs to be good follow up and it needs to be a part of a detailed treatment plans which includes doing other things at the same time and simply not just giving the meds and giving up. I.e physical therapy for pain, or exposure therapy or cbt for anxiety
This comment is not nearly appreciated as much as it should be. As someone who has been on 8 antidepressants, 5 antipsychotics, and multiple others, Benzos, specifically Valium, have been the only medication that actually stopped the panic attacks long term. It sure beats sobbing at work and losing my job 😂
Doctors just want you addicted to drugs. Benzos should be completely discounted as anything except a recreational drug. Certainly shouldn't be giving horribly addictive depressants to the depressed. Makes everything so much worse.
This is scary I was on benzos for probably 7 years along with two other medications for my seizures. I ended up coming off of them due to having a major mental breakdown where I took a handful to just not feel things. My doctor pulled me off of them at that point but never gave me any inclination they were this bad to take. I’m lucky I made it through that rough patch but if I’d known this before I wouldn’t have even started taking them.
I honestly didn't know HOW dependent I was on valium, until I ran out overseas. I was literally pulling my own hair out, and didn't know why I flipped out until years later. I thought I was losing my mind.
As a recovering opiate addict (7 months sober), benzos were the one thing I refused to screw around with. I used them seldomly recreationally, and a little during my many opiate withdrawals. After I dated a benzo addict and saw the absolute hell they put him in, I swore them off for good. Only took them in opiate withdrawal, but never for any other reason. Benzo withdrawal is brutal; they give you heart attacks and seizures, psychosis, uncontrollable anxiety, you may not be able to sleep for over a week. It's horrible because all you want is to get some escape from it in the form of sleep, but no, you can't, you have to suffer in this delirious state as you get weaker day by day. Horrific stuff. My ex always ended up relapsing because he couldn't take it. He's still on them today. Benzos scare me.
I was a serious methadone/opiate addict for over a decade and the lack of ability to sleep was the hardest part. Literally a year later and I still struggled to get a proper night's sleep 😞 Glad that's in the past!
It is a deal with the devil.I am attempting to taper DOWN but without Spousal/Work Support,IT IS Difficult.Been on it for YEARS.Feel like a dead man walking.GOD Bless.😊
Was severely hooked on benzos and heroin (which became mostly all fentanyl) back in the mid 2010s. Went to jail for a few months at the end of 2016 and all I can say is I wouldn’t wish the wd’s on my worst enemy. Complete hell on earth. For months. No sleep at all, Constant panic, loud noises would send jolts through my spine to the back of my head, unfathomable crushing depression, can’t eat anything, and all I constantly thought about were ways I could kill myself to make it end which was the only thing that brought any comfort just knowing that option was a way out. Been clean from both substances since then. If hell exists I guarantee benzo withdrawal is the closest experience to it you can get without actually being there.
I've been on prescription benzos for over ten years and thankfully my Dr. has been upfront with me about the dangers from day one. At first I was on a moderate dose several times a day but after several years, other medications and behavioral therapy, I now only take one in the morning- more of a maintenance dose than anything- and have them in case I have a panic attack. They're a lifesaver in regards to my anxiety but I'm just as addicted to them as someone who buys them from a black market dealer. It really sucks that we can't have things that make life feel less bleak without them also killing us. 😑
Recent reactionary state laws have made it a nightmare for me to get access to some of the meds I really need. I’ve never experienced the slightest hint of addiction for anything.
I know. This video has me concerned they are gonna go after my seizure meds now since a benzo is the only thing that prevents my form of epilepsy 🤦♀️ im not afraid of withdrawals... im afraid of going back to seizures.
@@AliciaGuitar this is happening to me my dr retired and years of being treated with clonazepam the new dr thinks I should come off 🙄 it is working well for my seizures and no horrific side effects like most other seizure meds
Unfortunately, you are a member of a very large club of patients who need these meds to function and find them hard to get. The pendulum swung so far as a reaction to the opiate problem that legitimate patients are the ones getting punished for it. Pain clinics cut people off cold turkey and others aren't accepting new patients. It would be one thing if these efforts had any effect on the opiate crisis, but it's as bad as ever. All of a sudden, you are getting treated like an addict when you have never abused your meds and you have to jump through hoops just to get the prescription by seeing a doctor every 30 days for a new one, which is overkill. The last people who should have to drive to a clinic 12 times a year just for the meds they've been on for a decade or more. People who have already tried every other remedy and need certain drugs to function. Dependence and addiction are 2 very different things, but some people clearly don't understand that. We went from doctors handing out Schedule II meds like candy to making life miserable for people who really need them. It's crazy and inhumane. I had to go to 7 pharmacies just to find one that would fill my prescription. A prescription I could never get unless the need was there and I passed all the tests to qualify. I get drug tested and monitored and have proven to be responsible, but it doesn't matter. This situation has led to many suicides. It's not right. We have an employee who went on benzos and it saved his life. There is a place for these drugs, but like opiates, they have been overprescribed. In both cases, these drugs should be a last resort, but they should not be hard to get if you are in that category. And I hope the commenter on this thread who wrote "Druggies!" never has a condition where these drugs are needed. Before I got an extremely painful chronic disease I would not even take an aspirin. I tried every natural remedy in the book for a decade before going on narcotics. By then my other choice was to go on disability and spend all day in bed. One thing this illness has taught me is not to judge others and to have more compassion.
The side effects of detachment and lack of emotions are part of what killed my father. They would routinely mail him 3 months of Xanax Rx across state lines. Doctors ignored his depression and alcoholism and just upped his dose. Thank you for this video
That is so true about nursing homes. I’ve witnessed a farmer, a strong, mobile, albeit confused bloke. Rather than control his behaviour by nursing skill, inter personal skills, they dropped him up to the extent that he was a shambling wreck, barely capable of walking. That was the common thing to do with “awkward” resident-dope them up. Profits before adequate staffing levels!!!
As a pharm tech of 15+ years, thank you for covering this. The opioid epidemic is in the public consciousness, but benzos? Not so much. The sheer amount of people I come across who are simply shocked their doctor prescribed them a "controlled" medication tells me docs are prescribing them without adequately educating patients in recent years.
Other pharmacy tech here, we get people coming into our pharmacy very clearly strung out on benzos, but you can’t turn them away, you just have to feed their addictions. Personally it makes me feel sick to my stomach and has weighed on me for ages,
@@Sch1z0gam1ng It’s none of your business and not your job to judge them. Would you rather they not get them and die during withdrawals? Mind your own damn business or find another job.
I have BAD dental phobia, so when I had to go in for wisdom tooth removal, my dental surgeon prescribed me Halcyon to take before I came in. It’s a very strong benzo. Holy MOLY, what a ride. Ten minutes after the pills I was slumped down in the passenger seat giggling at everything, feeling like I was floating without a care in the world (normally just going in for my checkup has me needing to squeeze stress balls in the chair and occasionally being sick to my stomach in the waiting room…) and then I have only a vague memory of even walking into the dentist. Aside from some drunk-style texts I sent people later, I don’t even remember the rest of that day until I woke up in bed at home at 3 in the afternoon (my surgery was at 9 am). They worked- but sweet bajeesus, no WONDER they were so strictly controlled at the pharmacy. I can’t imagine being addicted to that. I’m also ADHD comorbid with autism- Since my brain is constantly seeking dopamine AND a release of the never ending low-key daily anxiety, I KNOW how dangerous they could be for me to take with my brain being what it is if I had a prescription on hand and I just won’t take the risk.
Had ativan prescribed to me at 13 when I had horrible insomnia, didnt even know it was anything so problematic until I went to pick it up at the pharmacy and they acted like I was well, picking up something dangerous, which I was in hindsight. I've seen enough drug addiction in my life that frankly taking it I knew it could be a problem and I never got refills but yeah, wow is the effect dramatic. I ended up just keeping the pills and using them for specific things like my first day in a new class or job interviews, can't imagine having taken them daily like I was told to
I visited a psych ward to see a relative and the doctor said that 80% of those in the ward were there from Benzos. There were accountants, preachers, lawyers and every segment of society being treated there. It’s not that they needed Benzos . It was just easy for them to take drugs than to deal with the root cause of their anxiety. Benzos are a bandaid for the vast majority of people who take them. They were never intended for regular use and almost always increase the problems of people who use them long term.
Personally, clonazepam has been a life changer for me. In a positive way. I’ve had SEVERE panic attacks for over thirty years. Cognitive therapy has helped immensely, but when I cannot control it myself klonopin is my only alternative other than a trip to the ER. I’ve struggled with alcohol addiction for decades, but never had an issue with benzos.
@@forestfishburne7900 glad to know you don't take them often. Benzos can be super helpful when used sparingly. Was worries you were taking them daily while also dealing with an alcohol addiction, which would be super bad.
It’s good having someone like Simon to shed a light on this problem. So many people don’t take this problem seriously, this is one of the main reasons why the problem with prescription drugs isn’t getting better. In fact it’s getting worse and until we start holding these pharmaceutical companies accountable for their actions nothing will ever change, at least for the better. Thank you for video, I’m glad someone is taking the time to discuss this problem and share this information with the public.
I know many people that have had absolutely no issues with benzos and also experienced significant improvement with minimal side effects in their conditions when taken properly. Videos, articles, and news like this make it extremely difficult for people that have a legitimate need for these prescriptions to receive their proper meds because information like this has the effect of demonizing doctors and patients away from these medications.
People abusing benzos (and opioids) are why it's so difficult for people who actually do need them to get them. I take a very low dose of lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for panic attacks & acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol 3) for chronic pain. I only take them when I really need them, I don't abuse them because I don't want to have a high tolerance and need stronger meds to get relief. Oh yeah, I also take muscle relaxers for back spasms. The combination of the 3 isn't dangerous if you're not stupid about it.
I understand the importance of talking about these things, and yes they were overused and abused (and yes some still are today), but there are many people who legitimately need these drugs and are not zombie-addicts. The problem is now mostly that those who really need these medications can't get them because it's now been villainized.
The crap is so over prescribed it's insane and ruining millions of young people's lives. The less script's written the better for everyone. Go buy more Phizer stock.
@@tredjesongen thanks so much for your kind words. I actually live in Canada, and the worst thing about it is that it's the politicians making these decisions. The drs. here are scared they'll lose their license if they prescribe opiods. I've tried so many things for relief I've lost count. Ketamine treatment is an option, so that may be my next attempt. I guess if things get too bad, at least we have legal suicide now. I'm glad you've found something thet helps you. Wishing you continued relief. Peace ✌️ ☮️
As someone who has had a lifelong struggle with mental illness, I'm so glad you did this. I've been working on finding a drug free way to manage my problems because I didn't think a pill alone was enough. People need to know the bad side effects.
For me, these drugs are simply borrowing tomorrows dopamine to use today. It leaves me on a shortage, a “low” the days after I take a pill. This low is worse than what I felt before. Opioids also made me feel really, really awful which gives me an aversion towards them. I’m very grateful I haven’t developed an addiction to any of these.
I was put on a benzo with no idea of what staying on could cause. When I tried to get off after a decade of use it was the most insane, horrible experience ever. And it lasts. And lasts. For. Ever. Weeks of acute withdrawal. The rebound is a million times worse than whatever put you on. I went off opiates cold turkey and that's a freaking tickle. For the love of your life, do not mess around with the benzos to the point of addiction.
benzo withdrawals can literally kill you, whereas opioid withdrawals dont. benzo withdrawals can give you fatal seizures etc, whereas opioid withdrawals are physical pain, diarrhoea, intense fevers/sweating. (i havent had either but know people who have had both and they all say they would rather have opioid withdrawals)
@@tifKh for me personally, the opioid withdrawal just feels like you are sick with a cold. Maybe a flu? But it's just sick. The benzo withdrawal made me paranoid, hallucinate, and have the worst anxiety of my life. I was terrified to leave my house for weeks. Plus, you feel like absolute shit. I'd take an opioid withdrawal 100 times over one benzo withdrawal. And like the other user pointed out. Opioid withdrawal can't kill you. Benzo can. I did do mean under doctor supervision and it still was awful.
i was on a low dose of benzos for some years. after a year or so i noticed that the prescribed dosage wasn't effective anymore and i needed more to get the desired effect. after a while i stopped taking it altogether. the withdrawal was not fun. i was paranoid, bad tempered, not sleeping, shaky, and it altered my perception, i couldn't look at things (especially if they were moving) with both eyes - for months. my dr. was unhappy with my decision and said there was nothing that he could give me to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms. i wouldn't have wanted it anyway. but i can tell you that i'm changed since having taken that medication and i don't think in a good way.
At 16 I was given Librium to handle my mother's death. I hated the pills. They actually made it harder to handle my emotions. When the meds wore off I would cry my eyes out. You see the problem. I just quit after a month on my own.
Was in treatment for 10 years on Methadone. Half that time I was prescribed kpins while 180mgs of methadone. It's such a roll of dice and luck I'm alive today. Lost so many friends on thease.
Benzos saved my life. I’ve been taking them for 10+ years and never increased dosage - I’ll most likely be on them forever. I can attest to the HORRIFIC withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them for a couple days. I take an anti-seizure med just in case, because I’ve had multiple horrendous seizures when I was randomly cut off by a horrible doctor. I’m also prescribed opioids along w/ my Xanax prescription for severe post-acute Lyme disease pain. The Xanax is for severe panic disorder. For both issues I have we’ve went though numerous SSRI/SNRI meds, as well as muscle relaxers and various physical therapy (which I still do). None of these worked. I don’t have any issues w/ memory, etc. as well. So again, I’ll say, Xanax (benzos) saved my life. They’re not for everyone - nor is oxycodone - but they’re certainly for me.
I’m not saying you are incorrect on your withdrawal symptoms. Everyone is different. For me, withdrawal from a benzo is not in the same ballpark as opioids are. It’s not even on the same planet. Otherwise, I agree with your point you made entirely.
@@Gen-XTex Opioid withdrawal is no picnic either, but going cold turkey off benzos stands out in my mind as particularly unpleasant - especially given how long those withdrawals can last for.
@@LITHIATEDANGEL 10-4. I understand. I take Temazepam for sleep problem. Kinda hard to attempt to party with that particular benzo because it is attenuated for causing sleep. Take more than a regular dose just puts you to sleep. Literally, if I don’t have any for some rare reason, I just can’t fall asleep, which the exact same thing that occurred that necessitated them in the first place. I’ve never been prescribed the much more common Xanax, so I have no reason to doubt what any of y’all are saying here.
I was prescribed Atavan as an ER med until I could get to a doc. Was given 2 weeks worth. Only took 3 days because I got the side effects of extreme aggression and depression. I had 3 kids at home and they didn't need to see daddy get mentally fucked up even more
I've been addicted to benzos twice, once in college and once in university. They were cheap and easy to get, and I usually had one or more friend in addiction with me. We'd often bulk buy saying we were gonna sell to make a profit but usually just end up taking it all, only selling to each other. As an anxious depressed insomniac teenager, I loved how it made me feel, all the overthinking stopped. If I had to describe the high I would say it was just nothing, blissful oblivion. As someone who had always been an over thinker it was heaven. I stopped because both times because two separate friendship groups who weren't using with me said the same thing verbatim "We don't like it when you're on benzos, you have nothing to say, it's like you're not there" This hit hard the second time, when friends I had recently made at university were saying the same things as my college friends had two years earlier. I'll admit I was a zombie on benzos, I was also drinking heavily and smoking weed which can't of helped, though my friends who were using with me were much more high functioning, it's why some of them are still addicted today 4 years later. I quit benzos and never looked back, it's one drug I'll always turn down if I'm offered. Coming off them was hell, I ruined what could have been my first relationship due to my erratic and frankly insane behavior. I was incredibly paranoid all the time, constantly in fear of being arrested or kicked out of university, my paranoia manifested in campus security, I would leave parties to go and sit in my room alone. Overall the come down was like 3-4 months of hell, and I've lost entire months of my life where a really have no idea what I was doing. I would personally never touch benzos again, and would advice anyone against them, it's so easy to get addicted to £1 pills that take all the worry and pain away but in the end it's not worth it.
it's gonna be different for everyone, so your advice should best be 'don't take them regularly long-term'. ppl who use it infrequently, it's fine. but it surprises me that... well, I'm assuming lower doses weren't working for you, or? I did go off them for a month since I got scared that I had to start taking 2, but then I got back down to 0.5~1mg again.
Benzos are really tough for people with chronic anxiety. I became addicted to them when I was running from my anxiety and past. I have been on and off for years, in rehab for other addictions, but have always gravitated back to benzos on a truly medicinal level...I have panic attacks so physically and psychologically incapacitating that I can't always cope. But having that big old "drug addict" label slapped on my files makes it harder to get prescribed medication like that, and have to rely on getting them in a more dangerous market. The whole situation is ridiculous, and although I'm working on the root causes of those anxieties, C-PTSD does not resolve overnight, and until then, the anxiety persists. This is why the war on drugs is not working for the people.
@@m0ckingB1rd42 I am writing this down right now and will head to my local health food store later on today and will pick some up. Thank you for the suggestion! I have used kava in the past but haven't tried magnolia bark, and I'm open to trying literally ANYTHING that others have found success with. Is it something that works right away or after consistent use? I will also do a bit of digging to find out more info but I really appreciate the lead in a more natural direction, thank you for taking the time to suggest it😊
I was prescribed Valium for panic attacks that lasted for hours. I was using biofeedback and breathing but was non function during the attacks. I was shocked at how fast and well it worked. It just made everything smooth. I never took the prescribed amount and the thought of how addictive it could be, helped me make it through some bad attacks. I’m strong willed and I think that saved me. I was fully aware of how ‘easy’ it was. I can fully understand how addiction occurs and I can’t imagine how hard it would be to stop
I grew up in the 80s and 90s at the height of this horrific event. I was prescribed opioids for a neck injury playing football that took me down a 20 year road of the most horrific life. I finally got completely clean but I pay for this every day of my life now. I'll never trust another doctor.
He's talking about benzos, not opioids. Two completely different drug classes my friend. You can still trust doctors, remember, you were the one telling them you were in pain for 20 years. Recovering addict here, just saying my friend. I got hooked on prescription pills too and I don't blame the doctor I blame myself.
@@jsully8076 These doctors prescribed hydrocodone, soma and Xanax. I know what it's like to get off all 3 but my preference was hydrocodone because I worked outside and was raising 3 children and couldn't afford to do the soma shuffle for 12 hours per day. I had no knowledge of what I was getting into and there wasn't google in those days so I completely blame the doctor for not telling be the consequences. That's exactly why the cocksuckers get paid 300 damn dollars for a 5 minute visit...
The Veterans Affairs in the USA used to hand them out like Skittles. I don’t like to think of all my fellow veterans that I personally knew that died of overdoses from their prescriptions. Dozens of them.☮️
I was given Ativan at 17 years old- thankfully I only ever used it as prescribed and once my panic attacks were better managed, I simply stopped taking it. It definitely improved the quality of my life, but even now, its never a medication I would recommend. Some risks aren't worth it- I'm just glad it worked me when nothing else had.
"recommended for use between 2 and 4 weeks" That's already pretty optimistic. Most doctors only prescribe it for 1 week at most, for good reason. Acute cases. For that it's amazingly effective. It won't make people suffering from depressive disorders feel great, but it could help them sleep and make it to the next day. If that patient had an addiction from it before, this avenue is closed off. The problem is in practical medicine, I think. Benzos can be a godsend for some people, if doctors are careful.
Thank you for making this video! Benzo abuse and addiction really isn't discussed enough. We've got to do something (other than outright banning them) about this, although frankly I don't know what the solution is. And I'm saying this as someone who has been prescribed Klonopin for about 5 years. It gave me my life back. I was having panic attacks constantly due to PTSD and I couldn't hold down a job even as a part-time cashier. Initially I took them every day, for several months. Gradually I decreased the frequency. Now and for the past year or so, it depends on the week, but I take them anywhere from 1-4 times a week, but never more than 2 days in a row. I've never experienced withdrawal. I don't know whether I'll be on it forever and I'd prefer not to, but for now it helps me to live a more normal life. I don't experience any side effects. It's like opioids and stimulants for ADHD- if you really need it, and take it as prescribed, you're not going to feel high. You're just going to feel more "normal." I'm really glad we're bringing to light the issue of benzo abuse/addiction but I think it's important to keep in mind people like myself who genuinely benefit from these medications. They shouldn't be handed out like candy. But they also shouldn't be as hard to get as a ticket to a Taylor Swift concert when you clearly would benefit from taking them.
When I was first prescribed Valium, I was shocked at how much I’d be given with each refill. I became so addicted that three months after I’d stopped taking it, it was still showing up in urine tests. And that initial withdrawal…..I thought I was losing my mind. Just awful stuff.
I work in a pharmacy and am alarmed by the amount of benzos I hand to patients each week. I am glad a video was made about it showing the unsavory details of the drug. Keep up the good work!
I'm just going to comment on my personal experience on your 'alarmed opinion'. Do you by chance diagnose the patients you fill prescriptions for before passing judgment? Or is it just all of us that take prescribed alprazolam/klonopin/ect? Or even opiates too? I have had 3 seperate 'pharmaceutical employees' contact my provider questioning my xanax prescription prescribed by a NEUROSURGEON. I am prescribed 2mg x 4 every 12 hours. I'm sure your gasping with disdain as you read this. I was a former Paramedic with over 20 years experience when I was suddenly stricken with violent seizures lasting longer than 4-5 minutes, and some even with breathing cessation. I Went from fully independent, career oriented, to having life threatening grand mal seizures up to 6 - 9 a day!! After a long stay on an Epilepsy Unit, it was determined I have PNES. They are non Epileptic seizures. But triggered by Severe Childhood and adult Trauma, Severe Insomnia, and some just whenever they want to happen. A great many of us HAVE NO OTHER OPTION! So when pharmacy employees automatically pass judgment, like you and your some replies here are? You are the reason some can't even get the medication they desperately need! I don't like them, and I don't like what they do to my body, but I damn sure want to live if I can!! And for mr.pdf, mind your own business. Who is a pharmacist to question a Medical Physician? Now if they are calling early for their refills, or belligerent about the refill dates, I can see it. But as a patient that desperately needs this medicine just to stay alive, was labeled as an "addict" and "a drug seeker" by seperate pharmacy employees WITHOUT MERRITT. And once those terms are put in your chart by someone "thinking" they are qualified to question your Dr? Even your insurance company is notified, and it's damn near impossible to get removed! I had to get numerous letters sent from my Neurosurgeon because of people not even qualified to make that determination. So stop automatically passing your alarmed judgment. Just despense as written unless there's a contraindication with another drug they are currently on. Leave the rest to the qualified educated individuals. You do far more harm than good!! I know!
I was given valium / diazepam for anxiety and it made a massive difference. Probably part of the reason I'm still here. Sertraline on the other hand nearly made me unalive myself.
This. Still not getting any gabenergic, but I have enough poor man's Xanax (phenibut) to last me for a long time and I've made progress with it in 3 years equivalent of the progress I had made in 15 years with SSRI's or nothing. The side effects aren't even close to anything else I've had: zoloft, escitalopram, seroquel, mirtazapine, zolpidem and bupropion. (not all for anxiety, just for perspective) Phenibut and cannabis gave me my life back. I'm also on mirtazapine and bupropion which also help but I hope they will be unnecessary soon. Cannabis is more for damage control, for suicidal thoughts, eating, low potency etc. because of failure of prior treatment that has f'd my brain. My advice to doctors from a patent with high suffering: don't give gabaergics to people with low anxiety, but please don't gatekeep them from people with high anxiety, high suffering or treatment resistant anxiety. Very few will abuse them and most are rational enough to go get help for quitting them when they cause more bad than good. Exposure therapy cannot work when the patient is too anxious, too suicidal to even get their own food.
@@REXFORGT thanks for sharing this. I keep feeling like I need to get off my meds to find some real peace - but underneath the meds, there is no peace but mind breaking pain and trauma. On meds I could at least progress with figuring out what's happening and who knows maybe someday I'll get to a point where I won't need it anymore but until then, making it to the next day is challenging enough as it is...
I'm on Lexapro, but on Zoloft, it made me feel like a zombie. I was always dizzy, agitated, angry, upset, and depressed. I know it helps some, but for those it doesn't help, it can get pretty bad.
Im actually allergic to benzos, how I found out, marks one of the most terrifying moments in my life, and trust me, Ive had a lot of them. I was so paranoid, it still scares me to think about those moments...
I'm bipolar and also have pretty severe C-PTSD and rely on Valium and other medications to prevent me from becoming psychotic or suicidal. I recognise that some people are over prescribed their benzodiazepines but it is also prescribed for legitimate patients like myself. That's worth mentioning as well instead of just demonising the substance.
We are all legit patients,do you think your special? Don't you think that people warning people about them don't truly suffer from the same things you do if not more,it's easy to point at everyone else and say "not me ,not me"..wake up
@@patswayze7359 I, and other's I've met from being in the psyc ward multiple times, rely on benzo's. They work for us. So, I'm not saying that for some people they're not ok, I'm saying that benzo's have their place. This has nothing to do with me thinking I'm special, I'm representing the other side of the argument which was not mentioned in this video.
I’ve got the same diagnoses as you. Timely targeted use of benzodiazepines has saved my life on more than one occasion. Haven’t needed them in a while thank goodness, but nothing else works for catatonia or a panic spiral.
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So i just withdraled on Effexor. Oh my god i would rather detox off of alcohol and cigarettes again, multiple times. It was hell. Brain fog, zaps where it felt like electricity going thru my brain every few seconds and nothing helped. But now im not suicidal and im gaining feelings back in my hand as it basic went numb as i was on it
@@Shad0wBoxxerno bud effexor withdraw won’t kill you unless you fall down the steps from the brain zaps alcohol withdraw will kill you just like benzos from horrible seizures if the hallucinations don’t
@@Shad0wBoxxerbtw don’t start smoking again the effexor may have mad quitting easier
Can you cite sources for your videos?
Honestly the "Keeps taking them just to avoid the withdrawals" applies to basically all medications for psychological issues. I was on a benzo but was taken off for something different and over the years I've worked my way up to four different medications currently. None of them are benzos and yet I'm still freaking terrified of stopping them because my pharmacy has been late filling them occasionally and has either resulted in me hiding under my blanket shaking and wanting to throw up for days or just straight up in the hospital. I mean some of them I legitimately have to stay on but at least one I just have no desire to go through all that again so I keep filling it. They're trying to transfer me from fentanyl to medical marijuana (or at least lower the dosage and find some sort of meeting ground) and I'm bloody terrified because during the fentanyl shortage I ran out and did very nearly die from it.
I was addicted to prescription benzos, as well as a handful of "research" varieties for almost 10 years. I went into a rehab facility and withdrew so badly that I ended up in the psychiatric ICU for 3 days in a psychosis. I'm almost 2 years clean now, but that experience was the most terrifying thing in my life, and I'm grateful to be alive.
Yes I've noticed that the research chemical benzos have been flourishing on the internet over the past decade or so. Congrats on recovering, shits tough.
I struggled with Xanax for 3 years I went through a whole 90 ct farmapram bottle in less than a week one time, I’m so glad I’m sober now:) the coke and the xans were so hard to stop.. I never want to take another pill in my life, I still get coke craving’s sometimes but Since my best friend passed at 24 the risk isn’t worth it with all the fetynal out there.. I get a better natural high running 10 miles a day
good for you man, ive had friend who unfortunately couldnt get clean. Even though im clean now, its been rough and definitely had some weak moments. I wish you the best my friend
Because of my addiction I lost all my friends, my girlfriend, and almost died from fake Xanax.. drugs aren’t cool, even weed/alcohol made me not motivated and I was just wasting so much time.. I still don’t have any friends, or hangout with anyone because I socially isolated myself so much. I strongly believe this is gonna be my year.. my heart goes out to anyone struggling with drugs and alcohol🙏
I got off Xanax cold turkey. Suffering Hell is a good way to describe it
I was given a prescription for Ativan after ending up in the emergency room from a really bad panic attack about five years ago. I only took them when I was having a panic attack so it was never a regular thing, but I was having them multiple times a week. When I ran out I had recently switched doctors and when I asked if it could be refilled she refused and told me how highly addictive it is and she didn’t to put me at risk of an addiction because I was so young. I will forever be grateful to that doctor because who know what she saved me from back then!
I have panic disorder among other anxieties, but I only used Ativan maybe 10-15 times a year. My doctor used to resist giving me this medication to the point that I would end up in tears. Going to the doctor or running out of Ativan became an anxiety trigger. One time my apartment was broken into and the guy only stole like 4 things, 1 being my Ativan, and I lost it because it meant I had to go back to the doctor and beg him for more. I even brought the police report and he wouldn’t give them to me until I broke down. I used to get a prescription of 2-5 pills at once (because my doctor was a dick) and I would be anxious to use them because I knew to get more would be a nightmare. If I had any less than 3 pills I wouldn’t even leave my house because I couldn’t risk having a panic attack and having to use a precious pill. I’ve since changed doctors and my overall anxiety has gone down and I use maybe 3-5 a year if that. Last year I think I only used 1. A lot of my issues seemed to come from the anxiety of running out of medicine and not being able to get more and becoming “stuck” in a panic attack. I still get pretty bad anxiety about going to the doctor which is crazy because my new doctor is kind and has never made me feel like a drug seeker. I think the first doctor caused me to have a very unhealthy, almost dependent relationship with Ativan that I never had with other doctors either before or after him.
I started Ativan 15 years ago after a similar ER visit. Took it once in a blue moon, and only like 1/4 of a 0.5mg tablet. Over the last 2 years, my anxiety had crept up due to extreme stress and burnout, the loss of several close family members, and basically one crisis after the next with no breathing room. I started relying on increasing doses of Ativan to sleep, and one day I realized I was taking up to 6 or more tablets in a day to try and manage my insomnia and anxiety--and I needed to knock it off. About six weeks ago, I cut back to 75% of a single tablet at night and no ativan during the day. The rebound anxiety was weirdly delayed, hitting me hard about a week later and it's been SO HARD. 3 weeks into this adjustment, my dad died. It would have been so easy to medicate myself back into relative calm, but I've stuck with it. My resting heartrate is always 180-200bpm these days, but I know it will improve with time. Ativan has been a godsend for legit panic attacks, but it's dangerous af for generalized anxiety or long-term insomnia. I wouldn't wish this on anyone!
I went to my doctor about 23 years ago because I was feeling really mentally unwell and actually close to wanting to unalive. And when I went to my doctor I'm like I need something for the same ciety and depression but I am terrified of being prescribed things like Xanax or anything like that. And his immediate response was oh no they have the ability to potentially cause blood clots in the brain as well as having a myriad of other issues and being addictive so the most I'm going to give you is these two lesser medications that were helpful but we're not nearly as strong. And I'm very thankful for him being honest
As you should be for that great doc - good for you!!!! A close relative of mine discovered the addiction by simply ending his short RX’d “upon need” course and went through HELL AND BACK. I suspect many docs truly don’t realize how all-encompassing anxiety can be and therefore don’t realize how addicting relief of it is for many patients. These drugs are WAY stronger than they need to be. Again, GOOD FOR YOU!
@@AlexisS998 i am so happy you're better now. If you try to see this from the doctor's point of view, your case is not the rule - it's the exception. The doctor is bound by rules. He/she sees 15 patients per day, many drug seekers - it makes a doc less sensitive to pleas for benzos. People pleasing for benzos are desperate, manipulative and tricky, because benzos are so good, like a band-aid for your soul, but it doesn't heal anything, doesn't make anything better in the long run.
I took Bonzos for years to fall asleep. It took me two months to come off. I cut a sliver of a pill away a day. No withdrawal symptoms, thankfully. I strongly recommend this to anyone who wants to rid of them. There's no need to go cold turkey; take it nice and slow.
Also it’s one of the only drugs where you can die from stopping cold turkey, the other being alcohol (possibly gabapentin too)
Exactly…what you described is the ONLY way to get off benzodiazepines…
Thank you. I’m on them for the same reason and I don’t want to anymore. Ill try this.
@@Ouijaboreddd Good luck to you. One tip: don't be discouraged by occasional backsliding.
That is usually how its done with medical supervision, a slow taper.
Thank you for this. When I started experiencing peri menopausal anxiety in the early 40s, I was given a prescription for Xanax. My doctor said: “You are really going to like these.”
5 years later I was still taking them, very addicted, depressed, and my marriage fell apart. I couldn’t get off them. And doctors kept renewing my prescriptions, when I needed more and more to keep from having anxiety attacks.
It was awful.
I finally put myself in rehab with meth and heroin users to get off them.
I wish people knew how awful this drug can be. And I wish there was a backlash like the one towards opioids.
Drug dealer hands u fent. U really going to like this. Takes randomly oh my God why am I addicted.
@@sadhu7191 My exwife was prescribed Xanax for her bipolar disorder. when she could not afford her health insurance after losing her job, her prescription expired and she went to a pharmacy in Tijuana to get a refill. The "Xanax" she bought from a "legitimate" pharmacy in mexico, was cut with fentanyl, and she died. RIP Heidi Ann Horner
Oh there is a backlash. I use them sparingling as emergency medication for seizres and every month is a struggle to secure my prescription. This is in UK. They are not prescribed for anxiety anymore
I understand FULLY how dangerous they are.
I have suffered misuse in the past and accidentally OD
I've taken benzos for 15 years responsibly. No negative effects. No addiction.
Your experience was a you problem, maybe the doctors should have been more responsible but you are responsible for yourself at the end of the day.
Hope you're doing better now.
@@memberwhen22 My exwife was prescribed Xanax for her bipolar disorder. when she could not afford her health insurance after losing her job, her prescription expired and she went to a pharmacy in Tijuana to get a refill. The "Xanax" she bought from a legitimate pharmacy in Mexico, was cut with fentanyl, and she died. Mexico's pharmacies have been taken over by the cartels. Look it up. RIP Heidi Ann Horner.
The whole point of the affordable care act/obamacare, was to make health insurance accessible and affordable to everyone regardless of their preexisting conditions. Obamacare was a good start, but we need more. We should have socialized Medicare For All, like the majority of other developed nations.
Don't judge the struggles of strangers.
After the fentanyl episode, I've had great respect for how this channel discusses why withdrawal isn't an easy thing. The fentanyl one helped me gain the courage to finally stop morphine patch, Dr and I have been trying to get me off them for my spinal issues, and I finally managed it.
But I'll definitely keep an eye out if I get given Benzos in the future because the withdrawal sounds way worse and something I'd rather avoid at all cost. Especially if people usually give it to people already on the opioids.
Thank you to those wishing me well. It's very much appreciated.
It’s almost impossible to get benzodiazepines if you’re on any kind of opioid, at least legally.
Jacked back here too. Used to ask for sleeping pills...Dr would give me these other 'safer' non-benzo sleeping pills...high read up on them and they have all the same issues as the benzo with some extra problems but they were 'designed' to be safer and they pharma companies told all the dr's they are safer however they are not. lol. Now high just grow plants (on my channel).
@@TheBLGL At least I know there's less chance I'll have to deal with them if its that unlikely legally. Thanks for the information
It’s so bad, it’s almost indescribable, and I’ve been through a lot of stuff in my life. Have a very high threshold for pain and suffering, but it is like tripping on acid, but you have the worst flu you’ve ever had in your life and you can’t even see straight or speak correctly. It’s not like nausea and hallucinating, it’s more cerebral. Absolutely worst feeling I have ever been through and I’ve gone through it several times. I will never touch that poison again. I hope the drug manufacturers who make all this crap they absolutely know hurts us and sometimes kills us sleep really well on their golden encrusted pillows or whatever. I almost laugh when I hear people say that smoking cigarettes is bad… A lot of the things that doctors say/said are/were good are actually literally toxic and history will reflect that like with tobacco.
*Shame in them all!*
Know that Benz is aren’t nearly as addictive as opioids. However also know once addicted to benzodiazepines the consequences and difficulty of the addiction is as bad or worse than opioids. This is the paradox that keeps people unable to understand benzo addiction!!!!
I feel so weird after watching this video. I've had a benzo rx for well over a decade for PTSD. But they were always used on an emergency basis much like a rescue inhaler for asthma. The benzo was meant to throw the brakes on a day I couldn't handle or get me through serious triggering isolated events. Take them 2 or 3 days in a row and the rebound anxiety is intense. The benzo was never prescribed with the idea that it would relieve PTSD symptoms wholesale or forever. I was thoroughly educated on how long it took addiction to form & to treat my benzo as a last resort. I'm rather horrified that such enormous numbers of people treat them as magic pills.
Same.
Yeah, I had a prescription for several years, for panic disorder. I stopped taking them entirely when I realized that I was taking them more than I should or even for fun.
Me too. They definitely help but only in moderation.
@@terrideleon6350 I think if you have an addictive personality, you shouldn't even mess with them. But I've had a script for Klonopin for a long time for pop-up panic attacks and the reason they give it to me is because I fill it so rarely.
same here, got them for my panic disorder in case I can't calm down in my own
and I don't like taking them
I don't know how people take them daily
People who haven't been through hard withdrawals will never understand how horrific it truly is. It undescribable
Seriously it’s hell I only had to take it for a month in summer for sleep, after I stopped holy hell I couldn’t functions, I couldn’t sleep which was the worse I really thought I was going to die I will never in my life take it
That's why you titrate down instead of going cold turkey
I feel like it’s very similar to alcohol withdrawal. Both work on the same part of the brain.
We don't need to understand it. People who end up with withdrawals will never understand moderation.
@@B3Band You're not helping anyone. Seems like you're just getting high on your own smugness.
I took a fairly high dose of benzos, as prescribed. I never abused it but because my doctor never told me the risks of dependency or withdrawal, I took my klonopin daily for sleep. After about a year, I had trouble refilling my prescription and ended up going cold turkey. It was horrendous. Constant shaking and vomiting, severe panic attacks that lasted hours, and eventually, I became suicidal. My thinking was so warped that I thought the rest of my life would be this way, and a I attempted to end my life. I am very lucky that my girlfriend saved my life by calling 911 on me. I spent days in the ICU. It was genuinely a traumatic experience and it could have been prevented if the US healthcare system was actually fuctional.
Did you ever have mental health therapy during and throughout your benzo days? Klonopin given to make your sleep is really a dumb thing for a doctor to prescribe. Klonopin interferes with normal sleep - REM is degraded and anxiety ensues. It's not the US health care - there are stupid doctors everywhere. If sleep was your main proboem - which I suspect - why not prescribe a very safe drug like Vesteril? I'm surprised that it's rarely used.
My daughter passed away in 2016 when she was 4 months old. After because of depression and nightmares of what she looked like when we woke up and found her, me and my wife were prescribed benzos. I took them for a few weeks and couldn’t when I went back to work and just did counseling and grief classes. She unfortunately just ate benzos for 24 hours. We are no longer together because it has consumed her. I lost my daughter to a heart defect, my wife is alive but just as lost because of benzos.
I'm so, so sorry.
So sorry for your loss.
Oh man! My heart hurts for you! I'm so sorry.
So heartbreaking
I'm sorry for your loss.
Benzos literally took 5 years of my life away from me, I cannot remember anything between the ages of 15 and 20. I'm 22 now and have been sober 2 years, and FINALLY I am STARTING to have full capabilities back. Please anyone who reads this comment, even if your DOCTOR prescribes you a benzo, ask about other options first. I'll never be able to remember the same again, and it hurts my relationships a lot. Take care everyone, drugs stink, whoever you are, youre a better person without them. Sending love.
im 34 and missing my years from 18- 21... i retained a few key memories, but its almost completely BLANK, and its fucking terrifying
and yes i cant say it any better than you did. peace and blessing to you friend
Ugh this was me with Zoloft. I don’t remember anything from 22-25. I hope you continue to heal. These meds are dangerous.
I WISH I didn't remember anything between 15 and 22, or any age above 6 for that matter. And the only options I have been offered are allergic medicine and they do nothing.
Sadly teens still beg for Xanax.
We lost my brother to od of methadone and xanax which were prescribed to him from his family doctor. His doctor ended up losing his license because he gave numerous people these 2 drugs together and like my brother many died, I can't remember how many now but it was enough for him to get in big trouble. It's sad that so many doctors have got to where they seem to not care. RIP Josh love you brother.
Your family doctor should not be prescribing methadone. I didn't even know that was possible I thought you had to go to a clinic it's so controlled. And yeah benzos with any other kind of depressant effects the breathing and based on your body chemistry that could put you out just like a light. Hopefully you sued.
It's a real clusterfuck... Irresponsible doctors have led to so much pain and suffering, not only from the overdoses deaths and addiction they caused, but now it's impossible to get any kind of pain medicine for people who genuinely need it
@@jsully8076 Back in the 90's doctors could write a Rx for methadone for pain mgmt.
I had a script for them. It was difficult getting off methadone, but getting off benzodiazepines was much worse.
I'll never take benzos again.
So sorry for your loss
well the thing w doctors is you dont know if your md graduated at the top or bottom of the class. another issue; do you know pple who are really book smart but cannot translate what they learn into appropriate action? i have run into more than a handful during my professional life.
Benzos has been a life changer for me. Since I researched and micro dosed, my panic attacks and ptsd were gone and I made a life for myself, creating a business, being proactive, not afraid of anything or anyone. Now that I can’t get them anymore the withdrawals suck and my ever shortening supply is being used up. I saw a doctor today and getting it legally supplied is an uphill battle. All these doctors want is to prescribe you on a SSRI.. which I’ve been on in the past and don’t want to be an emotionless cloud on autopilot. 😢
They supplements and herbs. NAC and other amino acids help with anxiety disorders. Kanna is a very powerful herb that has similar effects as benzos. The herb Kratom is also good for anxiety and pain, but it can become habit forming even addictive if it's abused. Be very careful with anything just because it isnt synthetic doesn't mean it's safe or not addictive. If used responsible Kratom can be a great tool.
@@GnosticElohimwhereabouts do your get your kanna? I've found good kanna hard to find
@@GnosticElohim you mean kava?
Exactly I used to have 60. O.5 Xanax a month for two years. Never got addicted. Didn’t take them every day for no reason. Benzo can be a god damn life saver. They hell you slow down and focus and pay attention as well. here’s the thing. If you want to quit taking them. There is 100000000% zero reason to go cold turkey. For Christ sake they can make millions of them a day if they want to. Just cut back gradually and guess what? Nonwithdrawl. If they make your life better than just keep taking the dam things. like what’s wrong with that? they make pot legal and talk about how it medicine now then make all pills evil and unattainable. They glady give you antipsychotics though. Like wtf. we’re not all drug addicted beasts drooling at the mouth to get our hands on some precious klonopins. they don’t even get you high like at all. I mean I guess if you eat 20 of them you will black out but that’s the person whole fault not the medicines. if ppl want to get high they will. in Africa the huff jet fuel all day long it’s crazy. should gas be illegal too ? If you mention the word Xanax to a doctor your instantly scum to them. I’d settle for 10 a month for gods sake.
Exactly I used to have 60. O.5 Xanax a month for two years. Never got addicted. Didn’t take them every day for no reason. Benzo can be a god damn life saver. They hell you slow down and focus and pay attention as well. here’s the thing. If you want to quit taking them. There is 100000000% zero reason to go cold turkey. For Christ sake they can make millions of them a day if they want to. Just cut back gradually and guess what? Nonwithdrawl. If they make your life better than just keep taking the dam things. like what’s wrong with that? they make pot legal and talk about how it medicine now then make all pills evil and unattainable. They glady give you antipsychotics though. Like wtf. we’re not all drug addicted beasts drooling at the mouth to get our hands on some precious klonopins. they don’t even get you high like at all. I mean I guess if you eat 20 of them you will black out but that’s the person whole fault not the medicines. if ppl want to get high they will. in Africa the huff jet fuel all day long it’s crazy. should gas be illegal too ? If you mention the word Xanax to a doctor your instantly scum to them. I’d settle for 10 a month for gods sake.
I was prescribed Xanax for panic attacks when I was 17, and was hooked on them until my early-mid thirties.
I’ve been through some horrific shit, but nothing compares to withdrawing from benzos (and alcohol). It is absolutely unbearable. Every second feels like you’re about to die and you can’t eat, sleep, or function. I was hallucinating for days and had spasms.
Worst fucking part of my life.
I've seen first hand, I've brought plenty of people like yourself to the hospital 🚑
You got through it be proud
The nightmare will never be over. People who take these drugs will have a higher risk of developing dementia.
They don’t tell you when you start (or have your first drink) that you can die from stopping. Benzos and alcohol are the only things they have to detox you even in prison! Heroin has nothing on benzodiazepines or alcohol withdrawal. But I am happy you’re one of the few able to get off
@Bbgun
Based.
I short term used a benzodiazepine to manage PTSD that had gotten so bad I was basically constantly having a panic attack. I was not functional and would have had be inpatient without benzos. With them, I was able to continue life functioning and get therapy, and after a couple weeks I stopped the benzodiazepines. Yes, I was more anxious off them than on them and it was a little uncomfortable, but because I had treatment for PTSD which included other management tools, I no longer had constant panic attacks. I had my life back. This is the proper use for them! They can be a very powerful tool, but they need to be used in conjunction with therapy and care.
So much yes. ❤
I had panic attack problems for about a month, secondary to developing sleep apnea. While I got myself on treatment, my anxiety kept spiking and I didn't sleep for several days. I was prescribed benzos for that, but the day I got the prescription I didn't need to take one because the security blanket of having a prescription and pills if I needed them meant I could relax and fell asleep
Yes,@@personzorz! Several years later, I had some life events that triggered me and I started getting panic attacks again. It wasn't as bad, but it sucked a bit. I was given a prescription for Xanax and it lives in my medicine cabinet for that purpose. Just knowing it's there in case I need it helps me as well. I've used maybe one of in the past six months. It's so helpful to have there to remind me I have control over my situation and I never have to go back to having constant panic attacks again.
I agree that they work well, but goddamn is it dangerous for them to ever be prescribed to anyone for more than a couple weeks to MAYBE a month.. Which unfortunately, they have been, in MASSIVE numbers.. It’s a huge business, and it’s screwing people up, permanently.. Unimaginable numbers of suicides are people that are on benzos, I’ve experienced the intense suicidal ideation from them, and it’s terrifying because I’ve literally never had those kinds of thoughts/feelings before in my life.. It’s difficult to even find facilities that are willing/capable of getting people off them.. Yes, opioids and the withdrawals from trying to stop them are horrific, but there’s an under the radar epidemic of millions and millions stuck on benzos and antidepressants, experiencing horrible effects on their day to day lives, and potentially totally deadly withdrawals if they try to stop..
@@booognish What's unsettling is how people can have such different responses to the same drug.
I've had a benzo prescription for years to relieve occasional spells of insomnia. I haven't had any problems with them, but I take lower dosages and don't use them that often. I've never felt anything remotely pleasurable or "recreational" from taking them either, they just help me unwind and go to sleep.
After trying many anti seizure meds with No luck, The Doctor started trying Benzo’s. I’ve been on a decent dose of Klonopin for 15 years. It’s been a Godsend for Me! As I almost ended up in a Psych Hospital.
The real problem is that you are physically dependent and after being on for that long, there is going to be serious issues if you ever stop taking them. Seizures are very common when people try to get off of them. Happened to me after 3 years of taking strictly "as prescribed".
@@eriklarson4082 I take Them to prevent Siezures!
Some people really need those and their life would be misery without em. Better that way to some. Everyone is different!
I was prescribed them after I was raped and I was on them for a while. Now I only use them once a year around the dates of the trauma as I get a LOT of panic attacks and too anxious to go out.
Last winter was the first year I didn’t take them as I’m pregnant with my first baby and I’m proud to say I made it through winter with only one panic attack.
If used safely and monitored properly they can be an incredible tool
I went off of them cold turkey when I was pregnant and it was awful. I ended up taking them in small doses, especially as I had just lost another pregnancy before I conceived. I was diagnosed with CPTSD 10 years ago and without them the effects of the disorder are too much. I worked very closely with my MD while I was pregnant and my child was born 100% healthy and didn't have any withdrawals, as I was warned that may be a problem. I tried to go off of them while I was breastfeeding because they warned me that was also a problem, but at the time I was in an abusive relationship and the father would often interrupt anytime I was breastfeeding and I finally gave up. My doctors recommended that I give my child formula anyway just in case. Like me my child is extremely sensitive and empathic and if I'm anxious she will get so anxious to the point where she vomits. So taking benzos and other medication to control my anxiety and other symptoms make me a much better parent and is best for both me and my child.
I wish you a long happy life.
I also was on them after SA and during trauma therapy. I think people forget one of the benefits of them is to help with the symptoms and misery while you actually work on the underlying issue (in my case trauma). Haven't needed them since I finished trauma therapy. But trauma therapy/general trauma processing/recovery can take months to years to show any effect and if you can't function and are having constant meltdowns including SH due to something like SA, benzos are an appropriate choice while you work on that trauma. It's just not meant to be your forever solution. I weaned off over the course of several months. I'm so happy you've cut back your use, are doing better and congrats on the baby!
@@livyann2143 I'm sorry about your SA, and I'm happy that the benzo's help you get through life. Congratulations.
It's disgusting that people like yourself have to go through attacks like the one you did but I'm really glad you've taken advantage of the benefits medication can offer. Too many people criticise benzos or SSRIs, mood stabilizers etc (I'm on lithium personally) but used correctly they are invaluable. I'm surely you'll use the same strength you've shown so far to do amazing things and be a fantastic mother and role model for your child.
Got prescription benzos from my doctor to treat my anxiety when I was only 17. I took them once, felt weird, researched the side effects and threw them away. After that video I'm even more confident that was the right decision.
lol they're not dangerous if used sometimes. just don't use them every day.
Similar story for me. I took Xanax twice on prescription and I absolutely hated it. Felt like all my anxiety was still going in my mind but someone was pressing down on my body so that it wouldn't react. That felt worse than just having anxiety. Absolutely zero was said to me about any risk of dependence; I just didn't like the stuff. Anyway sounds like we dodged a bullet. My heart truly goes out to those who got ensnared...
@@gordonlekfors2708 They were supposed to be for everyday use and NOT to use below the age of 18. Some doctors just throw medication at you without even knowing what they are prescribing.
@@pocklecod Thank you for describing the feeling. For me the anxiety still existed but it just felt trapped. I had the feeling that I had an endless panic attack but only mentally without my body showing or being able to show any symptoms.
You did the right thing
I got prescribed Lorazepam to help me go to college because of agoraphobia caused by CPTSD. I was not warned it was addictive. Got hooked for about ten years, finally weaned off them in early 2020. Even with the weaning over about a three month period, the first week was...rough. Again, I was not warned of the danger...that you can die by weaning off them--I had to find it out on my own. My new psychiatrist (who did not warn me of DYING) seemed surprised that I was being cautious in the weaning process.
@hamter_mental_counsellingsee I don't get you, it's like you are really working to contradict yourself.
You are mad that people get on benzos since your taxes apparently pay for that, yet you get even madder when people quit them? And go to personal attacks on the way by judging on profile pics or checking their channel?
Dude, it sounds like you need some meds for that bipolarity.
You could not figure out they are addictive?? lol can you wipe your own ass?
That’s horrifying. I’m glad you were able to wean yourself off them in such a short amount of time. I’m in the process of weaning off the Klonopin that I’ve been taking at a high dose for almost 15-20 years! Like you, I was not warned it could be addictive. Early this year, I ran out of my meds, and spent 4 horrifying days without it (doctor was closed over the weekend, and pharmacy was out of stock). I got so sick that my partner almost took me to the ER. Once I had the pills again, I took one, laid down for an hour to let it take effect…then immediately called my psychiatrist and demanded to be taken off Klonopin for good.
To his credit, my doctor was horrified this happened to me, he took full responsibility (he admitted he “really dropped the ball” and “this should have never happened”), and agreed right away to help me slowly and *safely* get off the drug so an episode like that never happens again. He said that it can take as long as 12-18 months to be completely safe about it, and he’s been great every step of the way. 6 months later, I’ve halved my original dose, I’m working with my psychiatrist and therapist to manage my anxiety and PTSD with safer coping mechanisms, and my aim is to be completely benzo-free by New Year’s Eve this year. Hopefully I won’t need any prescriptions for anxiety or panic attacks after this, but we’ll cross that bridge when we get there. I just want to be healthy.
I justwant to add in regards to using benzos in nursing homes, it is not just to sedate pts so staff doesn't have to deal with them. It is also for the pts comfort and safety. Imagine having dementia and being terrified and anxious constantly, not knowing where you are, or what is going on. Sometimes it's more humane to give a person something to calm them down, as opposed to them being fearful and anxious with no ability to reorient them or really calm them down. Not to mention the risk of a bed bound pt falling out of bed because of agitation and restlessness due to their dementia. It's just not about staff convenience, it's ultimately about pt comfort. And we use benzos with opioids in hospice all the time. It is perfectly safe if taken only as prescribed and under the supervision of a doctor.
People who have never worked in elder care, either on a personal level or professionally, often don’t get this. You can’t therapy their kind of anxiety away because their brains are deteriorating. Expanding on your statement, there is the violence factor. The public often don’t understand how violent some elderly dementia patients can be. People see an older person and assume they are frail, but fail to recognize many caregivers are the equally elderly spouse of a dementia sufferer or are living with other older people in a care facility. Sedation is also sometimes needed for the safety of other patients, staff, and family members.
Even without dementia being a factor, people seem to forget what happens to a violent sociopath is often they grow into a geriatric violent sociopath. They may need specialized elder care, but are still the violent abuser at their core. They deserve to be cared for well in their own vulnerable state, but we still have to be cognizant of the fact that just because someone is old and more fragile, it doesn’t make them innocent like a baby.
The State in which one works takes medication very seriously so contrary of what one thinks drugs are considered a restraint
Yes demtia is a difficult, some get very very violent
I think when it comes to hospice…when someone is literally confirmed terminal and in end of life care, the gloves should come off when it comes to anything that will reduce or altogether prevent suffering.
Yeah at that point just shoot me
It amazes me how you tube channels, especially this one, can report on more relevant news and provide more investigative reporting than main stream news channels. Sincere thanks and bravo to you!
Amen!
Well, every news report is brought to you by one pharmaceutical company or another, take notice how often you hear “brought to you by Pfizer”
@@DarkFire1536 Well the big Pharma companies are all major advertisers on the TV news programs. So there will be no balanced reporting on drugs on a venue being paid for by drug sales.
I am heavily medicated for mental illnesses but I refuse to even touch these things. I've seen what they can do to people and I will never walk down that road. I've seen what these addictions can do to people and the friends I have who went through it are lucky to be here. It hurts to watch. I can only imagine the experience is even worse.
Did you ever think that your aversion to a drug you refuse to use is what's keeping you from overcoming your mental illness or that your aversion is part and parcel to your mental illness? I am not mocking you, but , like a fear of water makes a person never learn to swim, is like a fear of a drug which reinforces some other mental problem.
@@davemattia It won't do anything to actually help my problems. It will inevitably make them worse _and_ probably cause an addiction. I don't have a particularly addictive personality but I don't like the risks associated with benzos. There's no reason for me to take them and I don't want to. I've seen what happens to people who use them and I don't want to walk that road. I just won't do it.
I don't think your analogy fits here. I'm not afraid of the drugs themselves, but what they can cause. There is a slight difference here, but it is a key distinction.
Not that it matters, but I have a multi-pronged treatment. As with nearly all cases, mine is complex and cannot be solved with one class of drugs alone. I can't be cured as it is but I don't want to take medication that has a high likelihood of causing more problems than it helps. I take multiple medications to help manage my conditions so I'm not averse to medication at all. Just specific groups.
But more importantly, I quit dilly dallying and just started gender transition. While not directly related, it did contribute and much has been alleviated so like I said, it's complex and acting like being averse to a fairly dangerous class of drugs is a problem... is just willfully misinformed.
You're not a pharma-shill, are you? Kinda giving me those vibes.
Another thing about benzos, not only do they relive anxiety and fear, THET TAKE AWAY ANY FEAR YOU MAY HAVE HAD, AND TAKE A FEW THEY ALSO CLOUD YOUR NOW FEARLESS JUDGEMENT...YOU WALK INTO A STORE AND THINK YEAH, STEALING seems like a good anxiety thing free hobby today..one time at cvs I asked the store manager to hold my bag open and keep a look out for store employees....like, yeah, handcuffs have been an unfortunate side effect
I took valium for anxiety and depression self medicated for a month or two when I was at my worst in 2020/2021 It got me out and about and social and built my life back up. Benzos were an amazing thing for me at a time the government wouldn't provide an alternative Plenty bad stories on here so I'd figured id share the one time it was a good thing.
Unfortunately, these negative stories are why people that benefit from the drug's use are unable to get that medication. Glad you were able to get medication to help you
the uk has strict guidelines and fallbacks with them
I'm a diagnosed schizophrenic. I've been recommended benzos from doctors, psychs, government, and family. I currently take Seroquel because I've had benzos, know the effects and refuse to take them. I'm technically not supposed to be working with the dosage I'm taking, however the government out right refuse to put me on disability unless I agree to go on benzos. To the point that it feels like my doctors and the government themselves are trying to force benzos down my throat.
I even had other psychs say that's disgraceful and I shouldn't be put in the position of feeling forced on to benzos, I shouldn't have to choose between being able to live and support myself or live in constant sedation and constantly feeling hung over.
That is very weird. Seroquel can be an intense drug too... And an antipsychotic. It literally makes no sense why one form of medication for your debilitating medical issue is better than another.
Now I'm not saying this... But you could just SAY that you'll take them. And not. Even say you tried them and they don't work.
@@SoulDevoured yh I've honestly debated this point with myself as well, at the point of just giving into demands. My only worry is that if I'm prescribed one, I can't have the other, and at least I know I can handle Seroquel, I could just take the benzo when I feel an episode coming on, but then I also have to trust myself to actually take them.
That is awful!!! 😡 I can't believe the government can dictate you being able to be on disability based on a requirement to take certain meds. That is PURE EVIL. I am so sorry
Lucky you they are fun to take.
Just smoke some weed, that's all u need - indeed
My mother was prescribed librium before I was born having had a nervous breakdown due to losing her father to stomach cancer... I never knew until she died that this had happened. I just grew up seeing her take one of these green and black capsules every so often. I never knew what they were or what they were for either. Only when I myself became a sufferer, did I realise that she had suffered from depression. It just wasn't discussed.
I have had a benzodiazepine prescription for years because of anxiety disorder and insomnia, and I've never had any issues because I take them responsibly and sparingly. You have to make sure to treat these drugs as a last resort and try other relaxation methods first because they can be addictive if you don't keep careful control of your intake. Like opioids, they can be helpful for people who actually need them and don't abuse them, but they are just a band-aid to your problems. It's crucial to find longer-term solutions to anxiety such as meditation or therapy so you only need to take the benzos in rare cases, like severe panic attacks that won't resolve through other methods. You have to have the mindset of not using them as a crutch, and definitely don't use them recreationally.
I had one for for Valium for 6 years, my doctor took me off without notice for an issue I had with a nurse, she lied and said I was getting high with the other patients in the waiting room… the other patients were firefighters and pilots, not people who used drugs…
As someone on methadone, it’s impossible to find someone to give it back but it needs to be on a personal basis, I had a clear need for them as a teen and if I was treated for my anxiety as a child, there’s a good chance I would have never gotten addicted if opiates. Untreated anxiety caused my depression which is currently causing more mental health issues which is ridiculous, I am trapped by my severe social anxiety and haven’t gone out in years due to it. This is the closest I get to socializing with people, I’m not on disability but I’ve seen people on it for much less, and that’s a big part of my current depression, the lack of money.
Issues pile up and people should be treated as individual cases.
You’ve hit the nail on the head. I too have been prescribed Alprazolam (generic name for Xanax) for anxiety and insomnia. I try to never use them but when I’m confronted with those rare nights with racing thoughts they are a Godsend. It’s important you don’t increase your usage because that’s when problems arise. Be responsible.
Same. If you take them responsibly and dont abuse them theyre very beneficial
Knowing you have a viable, fast acting, non-toxic out is a very big confidence booster when dealing with anxiety or panic. In therapeutic doses the right prescription is a life-changer to people who need it.
Like anything this needs caution and responsible administration. It is not a cure-all but it is incredibly effective.
I also take them sparingly for anxiety. I recently had a bad case of the flu with bad muscle cramps - I used one per night - got relief. I am thoughtful about my use of drugs and respect the science. I use other drugs for my anxiety on a daily basis (non benzodiazepines).
Thank you for highlighting the problem with these prescription meds being used inappropriately long term. I’m a physician and I have a few patients that I’ve inherited that will respond to NO REASON I can give about how bad they are when I am always trying to taper them down - they are physiologically dependent on them and will cling to them like an addict when in reality these are everyday people who are hooked on them. I die a little inside every time I get a new patient from somewhere else establishing care asking for benzos because some other doctor had them taking them and they can’t go without them now but also refuse to taper down. Some have other comorbid substance abuse histories in remission but live on the edge of a relapse if their anxiety goes untreated so I’m afraid to turn them away in fear they may backtrack into old ways of illicit use if I’m not the one prescribing it and monitoring them. My old hope is treating their problems like we SHOULD be doing at the same time and hoping one day they’ll be ready to come off these meds.
I have epilepsy after a head injury that also left me with anxiety and sleep paralysis/sleep deprivation. Every 6-12 months my sleep cycle would be thrown off and nothing would work. My doctor eventually prescribed Zopiclone at half strength, between 3-7 tablets and told me only to take them in emergency if I hadn't slept in more than 24 hours. They explained why they were hesitant to prescribe more and I was extremely grateful for not putting me on the path to benzo addiction. It would have been easy to prescribe me benzos to treat anxiety, sleep deprivation and seizures but they chose not too. Had I gone down that path however, I would again be extremely grateful to any doctor or physician willing to help me taper down and eventually get off of them as I'm a firm believer that there is no miracle drug to treat anxiety or sleep issues and it's better to not be reliant on any medication long term to truly be happy and have manegable anxiety although I don't discount it can help in the short term. I've also switched doctors at times due to relocation and was once offered stronger benzos but stuck to my original doctor's advice.
I've had some people tell me I'm soft as half strength Zopiclone is very weak and not even a true benzo, I truly don't know and just trust my doctor on this one. I've seen benzo addiction and I want no part in it.
Anyway the intent of this post was to highlight the fact that some of us are grateful that doctors or physicians like yourself exist and whilst it may not always seem like you're doing the right thing you 100% are. Thank you 🙂
I'm a pharmacy technician and I'm happy to see there are doctor's like you still. It seems like so many of the local doctors in my area give these out like candy, as well as opiods and adhd meds. It especially bothers me when the patient is on suboxone along with benzos.
Talking therapies need to be treated like drugs and dispensed as equally as drugs.
I wish we had doctors like you here in the UK. Here, the corrupt bunch that call themselves "doctors" - who usually don't speak English - want everybody on tranquilizers, antidepressants and painkillers. Not suffering fropm anxiety or depression, I have so far had tranquilizers pushed and forced on me for severe dystonia (the correct treatment would be surgery or Botox but Botox doesn't work in very severe cases like mine), antidepressants for dental abscesses (correct treatment: antibiotics and dental treatment), painkillers and tranquilizers for ovarian cancer (correct treatment: surgery and possibly other follow up treatment), painkillers for scoliosis (correct treatment: surgery).
When I refused heavy duty tranquilizers (Clonazepam) for dystonia (for non-medics reading this: dystonia is a rare movement disorder) I was labeled a "difficult and non-compliant patient", I got screamed at, threatened, and I continue to get surgery denied. I am severely disabled due to the dystonia being so severe, ie I am totally bedbound unable to even sit up or see to my own personal hygiene.
I have been left to rot in my own filth and I get told to "just take tranquilizers so you won't be aware of what's happening to you", "just go into a care home" (I'm a young woman, not someone already with one foot in the grave) and "just top yourself then"!!! All by doctors (neurologists to be precise).
My primary care physicians couldn't possibly care less, they refuse to see me in person since 2019 and so have never seen me since I became disabled (in 2021), and so they deny that I am profoundly disabled and have dystonia. And because they deny my severe disability, I cannot get any support. All they offer is tranquilizers and painkillers.
My local pharmacy, which is next door to the doctor's office, only stocks antidepressants, painkillers and tranquilizers (and a few abortion pills) because that's all that the doctors prescribe. If one does need anything else, it needs to be ordered in. When I could still walk and drive (yup I was perfectly fit and healthy until dystonia hit), I used to go to that pharmacy and I saw it for myself - rows and rows of tranquilizers, antidepressants and painkillers and nothing else, and patient after patient coming in to file their prescriptions for these poisons. I've never come across any patient other than me that came in for anything other than that.
I could literally call the doctor's office and ask for enough tranquilizers and painkillers (opioids) to knock the entire neighborhood out, the prescription would be at the pharmacy before I could say "thank you" and if I were that way inclined, I could do so and then sell that stuff on the black market and make a bunch of money. Apart from being severely disabled though, I also got a conscience and so couldn't live with myself if I knew people might have died because I supplied them with substances I know to be dangerous and to cause premature death. Apart from that, it would be pointless anyway though given how doctors here dish these poisons out like candy - no questions asked.
I'm also constantly in trouble for not being on these drugs. Each time I have to get taken to hospital, I get asked "what medications are you on". When I say "none", it's always the same - "you are just confused, do you not know what you are on", "why are you not on antidepressants and tranquilizers", "let's quickly get you on tranquilizers, antidepressants and painkillers"!
What's the agenda???
Eh to counterpoint this- I was on benzos for 10 years for SEVERE panic attacks and agoraphobia, tapered down off them accordingly and was totally off of them for 2 years. It was the worst 2 years of my life, constant panic, dread and the agoraphobia came back. I went back on them “as needed” but the rebound anxiety you get the day after taking them for a panic attack is so awful that I eventually got back on them daily and have zero regrets. My overall panic is manageable again and I’m no longer agoraphobic. Please understand that for some patients these meds ARE a daily necessity and their panic is so severe that tapering down (no matter how slow) will cause them to spiral. I hate being on meds daily, but I much prefer it to being in a constant state of panic of fluctuating between sedated and rebound anxiety.
For some those when used responsibly can be a life saver.
My grandmother was a lifelong drug addict to multiple substance, and Xanax was one of them. She had taken some, and then overtook her blood thinners (she likely forgot that she had already taken it that day). It wasn’t the first time she had done that, but this was the only time that she hadn’t been found. Yeah, she died and my pregnant cousin was the one who found her a few days later. This was over a decade ago, and that’s not even the only terrible thing that’s happened to my family members while on Xanax (mostly car accidents).
I always thought it was odd that elderly people, like my late grandmother, would be prescribed something like Xanax, when she already suffered from occasional 'balance' issues'... Why are doctors prescribing medications that are known to cause 'balance issues' to elderly patients who have difficulty walking normally even when NOT MEDICATED?!?
And cause of death, she fell into her own swimming pool at 90 years old and drowned. It was a tragedy, and likely occurred simply because she lost her balance...
Cool story bruh
@@StreetPreacherr omg I am so sorry to hear about your Grandmother! That’s a tragedy! This is why I tell my nana to tell me if she gets prescribed any new medication. I do not trust doctors, one tried getting her on an antidepressant! She’s never been depressed in her life! I’m super happy she’s confident in my advice😊
Thank you for covering this topic. I know someone extremely close to me who was prescribed benzos and has been through a horrible experience because of them. Needless to say, there is an alarming lack of awareness among those who prescribe them about the extremely harmful side effects; and these professionals dole out benzos like they're packets of sweets. It's horrible.
Capitalism doesn't care as long as money is made
@@thifarthefacetious It's the sad truth
@@somerandomduck2023 "Based off pure narcissism". I disagree, it should be " Based off of pure greed fostered by being born, brought up and maturing in a capitalistic society in wich anything that doesn't have monetary value has no value and anything that can bring you money is morally right to do".
@@somerandomduck2023 if you don't believe me, go search Purdue pharma and oxycontin. You will see how PHARMA made everything possible to sell more of this pain killer
@Lycan And where does the lack of regulations come from ? From lobbying, Big pharma and corporate interest are publicly known to spend billions in lobbying in Washington and New York. Why do regulators give more credit to the voice of corporations than they do the voices of the citizens ? Because corporations have money power. And money is all that matters. Capitalism social structure is similar to the feudal system. Except the kings are the central banks. The aristocracy is the commercial banks and financial institutions. The nobility are the big corporations that cater to the stockholders (wich are NOT common citizens). The clergy are the media who, through the sacred words of neo-liberalism, calm down the plebians in an almost opiated apathy. And lastly the plebians, peasant and knuckles draggers are you and me.
As a former abuser of each and any benzo for the best part of 15 years this story hits the nail on the head , im two months clean now after going through rehab . It was the seizures that finally made me want to stop but not a day goes by where I can’t help myself from thinking of them .They are fantastic when used properly but inevitably lead to a slippery slope .
27 years old, from Sweden.
Wrote this comment on another videos as well, and got so beautiful responses. So if it might inspire someone or just to relate, I’ll be grateful.
2,5 years ago, around this time, I was rushed to the emergency because I swallowed 35-40 pills of Valium together with a liter of liquor. I just wanted out.
My relationship had crumbled, my family was in turmoil and I had took the biggest relapse in gambling ever.
Just a week before everything had sort of got taken care of, I had the economy under control.
But that relapse teared a whole in my soul as well as completely shattered my financial situation.
A result of a downward spiral starting at 19y to 24y. Anxiety, depression, addiction and a lot of self hate.
3 years of Valium because of the constant anxiety.
I tried to take my life that night. I really thought I’d die. But i didn’t.
In my head everything was ruined. I thought everybody hated me. Was tired of me. Honestly, I hated myself.
Long and bumby story short - I stopped taking Valium, cold turkey. It was a living hell for 4-5 months. Everyday for two months I got worse. I thought I was dying as well as losing my mind.
To quit benzodiazepines was indescribable.
It was as if something had poisoned me entire body and mind.
And then, I lost my apartment.
Fast forward - I am today sober from everything. A drink now and then.
I am quite happy. I managed to stop gambling.
I am in a new relationship and my family is in a good place.
Also, I’ve made some new friends who I share the love of making music with.
And last year I started a business which is going very well. I am paying of my debts quickly and still living a pretty decent life.
And also, I got a pretty great apartment.
I never thought I’d recover. The journey I’ve done is not a fun one. Mostly pain, anxiety and hopelessness.
But it turned around, slowly.
Mostly thanks to myself but also my family and an amazing therapist.
Just wanted to share this if anyone is in a similar situation.
I know how broken a person can feel. But, it will get better.
You know what to do, the things you don’t want to think about is the things you need to do.
If I can do it so can you.
You need to try to empathise with yourself. Really try to feel love towards you. You can be your own best friend or worst enemy.
Love from Richard
What touching words. Thank you Richard 😊, much love from chilly England!
❤❤❤❤ from Chicago
You have no idea how much I needed to read that right now. Thank you. I’m reading your words twice because I’m feeling so terribly broken and ruined and all I want is to relapse on Valium, a lot of it, after 8 years. But I can’t even escape that way because my dear father made me promise I wouldn’t before he recently died. He was a clever old man - he knew I’ll never stop trying to make him proud. He’s the reason I realized I had a problem, lovingly helped me through it, and cheered me on at every milestone. I lost so much to that Valium, I lost years I wish I’d spent with my dad. Now he’s gone, I’ll never have them back, and I’m stuck here on this earth goddamn sober to feel it all. Every waking moment hurts.
But you were brave enough to speak out to give others like me hope; I sincerely appreciate the late night help. It gets dark in my head, especially when the world is quiet.
Best of luck and many blessings to you from an American Swede in Washington State ~
Thank you for your comforting words, I needed to hear that. Sending love from NY
@Dr Hamter L.M.H.C. You're just a hateful person who is so miserable with themselves that you're trying to make other people miserable.
It's not going to work. Enjoy screaming into the void. I hope you seek therapy in order to become a better, less hateful person.
Been on Clonazepam for 4 years for panic disorder, GAD and social anxiety disorder. It totally changed my life when nothing else would. Not exercise, not anything else. Now I can live a somehow decent life. Just don't ABUSE them. I know they are addictive, but I'll never go back to being afraid of everything, staying home every day with all doors locked and having panic attacks every day.
I’m sure I would be a suicide by now!
There are other options man. I’ve been diagnosed with severe PTSD and GAD, and there is no way I would ever even take ONE benzo. Beta blockers, THC, and the ability to take life as it is and not need a fucking baby binky is how I do it. Kick the junk and admit you like feeling high.
@@Seawitch907 I know for a fact I would have been too.
@@JohnnyBoy8141 I hope it gets better
They have helped me alot. Im just not happy that children are given them. I feel like children should be treated differently considering there brains are different and klonopin Xanax and volume cause memory problems. How can a student in middle or elementary school remember what there being taught. I have PTSD. Im sorry I doubt children well a lot of children have what I have. Or the extreme panic and fear. I would like them supported and helped with non benzos counseling exposure therapy and lots of support. Im sorry. I just don’t think there any good for children. Even though yes I take Klonopin bc I quit my Xanax and had a severe seizure it was aweful. I just don’t think it’s okay for kids it is not the first thing they should try is what I’m trying to say I guess. Idk. Anyway I hope everyone who understands panic fights through it. Your not alone.
We had issues with my mother, who was suffering with Alzheimer's, where the nursing home was giving her klonopin. We couldn't even take her off the drug, because the effect on her would have been horrific and confusing for her. They began cutting her dose down once we moved her to a better home but she died before she was free of it.
Saying that, I've been prescribed Diazepam for the last 5 years, but only take them when absolutely necessary, so maybe once or twice a month. Any drug is a two edged sword, and I personally am not sure how I feel about this one...
That’s a tough one, dude.
My Nan is on Valium, I’m prescribed Vyvanse, Lexapro and Zyban.
I don’t know how to describe it, but my grandmother is a different person each time I visit. Sometimes she appears very, very, agitated and other times she is _her old self,_ if you will.
I don’t know how to explain it, but it makes me upset to see her in those states. Some of these pills have some gnarly side effects.
I hope you are doing better 👍
As someone with panic disorder, I can’t make it through a day without a benzo. I was a wreck, nearly losing everything, for six months before I got a prescription. I’ve taken benzos daily for 4 years and they saved my life.
They have their uses is all I’m suggesting.
I posted something similar. They've impacted my life for the better. They're not right for everyone, but they're right for me and my doctors treatment plan.
I feel the same way. However in my particular case the tolerance increased so I'm taking more dosis ( prescribed) me and my psychiatrist been working hard to reduce dose.
I always do crazy reckless things and get into trouble when I take my clonazepam. Then I never even remember what happened
I don’t agree. They are literally changing your brain chemistry. You can do that with meditation, yoga, healthy diet, excercise and even massive change of your environment and life style. But you do you, if you wanna be a slave to a chemical and the system to live life… that’s your life. This is coming from an addict who used many substances and thought some were beneficial for my brain chemistry. Now that I’m 100% sober and found what works for me I feel better than ANY chemical ever could do for me.
As a gp I saw countless people on benzos, and the ones I researched how they got on the benzo train almost all were documented in the beginning of being told "this is a very temporary solution and is not to be taken daily". Then it became daily, then dosages started rising. Even the zopiclone/zolpidem sleep meds are highly addictive
Thank goodness zopiclone has that fantastic side effect of tasting copper for at least 12 hours after waking. I love getting a full good night's sleep, but the taste the next day was not worth it. Whatever is in zopiclone that makes that taste should be put in Xanax bars and any other abused benzo. I had a raging Xanax addiction back in 2009, so much that I actually overdosed after walking to the mall... after taking 8 bars in the summer..in Vegas.
I did not stop getting a Xanax prescription until 2019, and I was switched to Valium. Valium works better, and I can function and not abuse them.
With Xanax, my ex had a different name for me because I acted like a totally different person and wouldn't remember doing any of it. He would have to tell me. 'Xantanex' did some crazy shit in Vegas and if he wasn't there, I don't know *literally* anything I've done on more than one bar. I'm now trying to work on cutting slowly down on Valium while trying CBT therapy even though CBT is basically brainwashing (imo)
@@HorrorHermitofHell Try grasping the idea that "brainwashing" does NOT make something inherently evil. It depends on what exactly you're washing...
What I mean is that brainwashing and indoctrination are EVERYWHERE... for EVERY little thing. From schools setting schedules for children to become "good little 9-5 worker drones" to bootcamps turning perfectly decent people into industrialized murderers to even cartoons and movies "G.I. Joe'ing" all the Boys, and "Betty Crocker'ing" the Girls...
Society has LONG used stories and narratives from folk lore to religious doctrine to "tune people up" for a tighter relationship standard with society, itself.
What defines the "Evil" of brainwashing is the intent and result. Working toward "washing out" the addiction and related struggles to be replaced with coping mechanics in the moment, and healthier practices to reinforce your self consciousness and self worth might actually be good for you IN SPITE of being "basically brainwashing"... ;o)
@gnarth d'arkanen I know this. I think my issue with it the first time was that it was in a group setting of complete strangers with the instructors giving us a handout of one raisin and a sheet of paper that tells us what to do with the raisin.
"Pick it up. Is it heavy? Do you feel the lines and ridges in the raisin?"
Etc etc
This time, I will be trying it in a one on one setting, and hopefully, there will be no lone raisins to describe.
It was an exercise, and I understood that, but I'm pretty sure only 2 other people did, and the other 10 were just going through the motions like a court ordered program.
The instructor was the person who told me it basically was brainwashing, just with healthier goals in mind. It kind of weirded me out to be in a group doing brainwashing exercises... kind of cultish to me in a way. The focus was on being mindful, and I swear that word gives me PTSD now only because it shocked me that people had to be told to be mindful of themselves and others.
@@HorrorHermitofHell That's not brainwashing... It's insulting... REALLY??? A friggin' raisin and a brochure of instructions???
What it sounds like you SHOULD be getting is a "Meditative Exercise"... Something that can start really simple, and then steadily grow in complexity as you learn and develop, but is also relaxing, fun, and exciting all together... Yes, that IS possible...
I get that the raisin is an exercise, but there's no good to come of a process that started out as an insult to your intelligence... Nobody establishes rapport or trust by demeaning or degrading the other person(s).
I'm bordering on an idiot and I know better than that...
Anyways... Maybe in the interest of building rapport with your next/new therapist, you can bring up some ideas of your own (interests or possible hobbies) to suggest a better exercise to quiz you about while you come for this one-on-one stuff... They can ask you all the same questions as with the raisin while you go... and probably more... get you "out of your head" to think about what you're so interested in... build on the meditative process as much as the hobby-skill(s)... and go from there...
Not going to pretend to know all the answers, so this IS ONLY a suggestion. Might help... might only let you in on "this person's only here for the damn paycheck"... or might actually work out a compromise... Worst they can say is "um... no, let's don't do that." Right?
I meditate on a motorcycle, but that's not exactly conducive to a one-on-one session with anyone. The wind-noise alone ruins any chance at conversation... AND it's not likely a therapist wants to join me while I meditate at 90 mph... haha..
BUT there's always D&D or other games with books, dice, and "theater of the mind" to build the visuals and create stories, no matter where you get "inspiration" or how you code "this is what triggers me" into the storyline... If that might help... I know it has helped make me a better person than the despicable SoB I might've been otherwise... ;o)
I was addicted to benzos for 3 years, and have taken an absurd amount to chase my high. I remember laying in bed unable to move, and I could feel my breathing shallowing. I laid there unable to even care about what was happening, and remember waking up the next morning thinking, “Am I alive?” It was a terrifying experience and I’m still not sure how I’m alive. Benzos are a horrifying epidemic, and I pray they crack down on it soon.
Damn this story gave me chills. You are lucky to be alive
@@danieln7777 My exwife was prescribed Xanax for her bipolar disorder. when she could not afford her health insurance after losing her job, her prescription expired and she went to a pharmacy in Tijuana to get a refill. The "Xanax" she bought from a "legitimate" pharmacy in mexico, was cut with fentanyl, and she died. RIP Heidi Ann Horner
As a Benzo addict I can say this class of drugs is the hardest to get off of and or get on without
Yep, been using them since I was 14/15 and have never been able to completely stop.
I was forced to stop and the withdrawal was absolutely miserable. This was about 5 years ago and I still wish I had them every single day. It really was a magic pill for me and I’d get back on them in a heartbeat if they were prescribed anymore.
@@aleisterlilywhite1109 they still are, just incredibly rarely prescribed.
The tapering process is extremely horrible. It's not even necessarily an addiction; it's more of a dependency.
Absolutely been clean for 6 years still have seizures but they are rarer and less intense as time goes. My trust in doctors was ruined forever(prescribed at 17 to alprazolam) instantly addicted. No more anxiety, and if one is good 2 is better 10 is great. Bad news. Best of luck, it does get better but its slow going and the anxiety is so so much worse now. Truly wishing you the best i found shrooms more helpful than anything.
i use lorazepam for my severe catatonic episodes, its pretty much saved my life during them. they can be extremely useful but there really does need to be more caution used when prescribing them due to how addictive they can be
I hate this epidemic. I’m on a very small dose of benzos, that I desperately need. Before benzos, I’d have regular, crippling panic attacks. I’ve passed out at grocery stores, pulled over on the freeway, at work, etc. I’m very responsible, never abuse them (honestly I’ve seen horror stories, and have no desire to go down that path) and it’s getting harder and harder to get my medication.
I get it’s like a safety thing, but my quality of life is piss poor without them. I wish kids never found these things.
Try to find alternative treatments, all these drugs do is treat the symptoms not the causes
Indiamarkt
I have the same problem. I don't even take them often but when I'm in a full blown panic attack lorazepam is the only thing that works
@@tonyahinrichs8828 diazepam lasts waaay loonger
Have you tried SSRI or similar antideptessants?
I didn’t find out Im autistic until I was 19. I was prescribed adhd medication and different ssris and nothing helped my anxiety. I’ve also tried a few other “anxiety” medications, and hydroxyzine gave me a psychotic episode. So I got a prescription for Xanax. I only take it when I have meltdowns, but it helps a lot. And knowing I have them makes me more willing to do things I couldn’t before like going to a grocery store. And my mom has an undiagnosed nerve condition where her nerves just fire randomly and it’s really painful, and gabbapentin (however you spell it) is the only thing that helps. Just because some people are irrisponsible doesn’t mean that should hinder another’s ability to get a medication that will help them.
Exactly.
as someone who pretty regularly takes prescribed amphetamine tablets i absolutely understand your sentiment
however while it may help some people, the long term efficacy of benzos really is questionable, particularly on account of the rebound effects and the frankly unprecedented increase in risk for degenerative illnesses.
im not saying in the meantime it shouldent be giveing them to people like yourself but there really should be more of a search for a replacement
@@therideneverends1697 I do agree with that too. If they found something that works just as well, but is safer, I'm all for that. I've never had any adverse reactions from benzos, I know people that have (seizures and addiction), but people misuse all kinds of things. I just don't like being punished for others mistakes. I have to suffer a low quality of life because other people can't be trusted. Quite frankly, it sucks.
You're right. In a perfect world, they would stop giving them out like candy, but people who really need them could still have access with the permission and close supervision of their doctor.
But again, 12,290 died in 2020 with the help of benzos according to the NIH. You can't just ignore a number like that.
Damn can hydroxyzine do that? Seem more like reducing physical anxiety as to more mental, atleast for me.
6:47 I feel the need to point out that while dementia continues to be a concern (I have o sign a waiver every year). The correlation between dementia and benzo usage continues to decline and is below 50% at the last conversation with my doc.
My mom was a classic benzo addict from the start, and this began when dad had her placed in a psych ward for a very short period of time, when my brother, sister and I were very young. Mom came out of the hospital with prescriptions for both Librium and Valium. She kept taking them for years, which involved some creative "doctor shopping". She would also occasionally crush up some of her pills and put them in glasses of orange juice, which she would serve to us three kids when we were cooped up in the house and were becoming restless and unruly.
Yeah, I knew plenty of kids in my neighborhood while growing up where a benzo-mom would drug her children so they'd go to sleep and not "bother" her.
😮
Eminem
Eminem's "My MOM" song talks exactly about this issue
Simon. I've been an avid viewer for years and never thought you'd cover something so close to home! Benzos are a miracle and a curse in the same breath.
Benzos also drain all inspiration from me. They feel like losing yourself and it just not really bothering you. Forgetting your life sucks. Also, they get rid of most inhibitions causing people to do uncharacteristic things like shoplift and disregard their life. A good friend of mine got shot and killed while on Xanax and I'm pretty sure he didn't see the danger in front of him. It sucks. Stay away if you were unaware.
They just added stealing to the listed side effects. Nightmare zombie drug.
Honestly, all of this completely depends on how you use them. I've had absolutely horrific insomnia periods - I'm talking my brain is mush, I haven't slept in over a week, I wish someone would just knock me out with a blunt object but when I lie down and close my eyes, I still don't sleep. It's physical torture. I take half a clonazepam on an as-needed basis, which is never more than one or two nights every few months, sometimes even less. It's an incredible relief to know that I don't have to suffer that kind of insomnia, and that I can treat it relatively easily if I need to. This video focuses on misuse, daily use (which you shouldn't do), mixing it with other drugs ( DEFINITELY don't do) and the most extreme side effects. It would be good to see a slightly more balanced approach, rather than just the 'scary and shocking' side.
I feel like the daily use thing is a misprescription thing and negligence on the doctors end (since they themselves are probably miseducated on how the medication works) since so many other pills can be taken daily like cholesterol control pills (mainly the statins) and vitamins. I think antipsychotics/antianxiety meds shouldn't be under that category. On that hand, no quick acting med should be prescribed that way, only the slow release meds should since it's designed to last all day or night or when needed (I guess for the last would also be not daily).
I completely agree. My opinion aligns with yours. I myself refused anti depressants when doctors wanted to prescribed them to me, while at the same time I would never ban them. They can quite literally save lives in some instances.
Absolutely agree, but the "scary and shocking" side is more the commonality than the exception. To be honest, you're the exception. Good on you for not allowing yourself to get caught up in them, as many...maybe even most, people do. Just like opioids, the whole situation ruins it for those that actually need them.
@@michaelconnolly7408 My mother uses sleeping pills when she has trouble sleeping. When she gets into one if periods when she can't sleep it is either that or she will have nights with very little sleep which basically makes her unable to work and normally function. I myself refused anti depressants when I was prescribed them because I knew they could cause addiction. I asked the doctors for blood pressure medication instead as high blood pressure is a very real threat to health and blood pressure medication can't cause addiction. Since I was 16 at the time back then I was refused. Later I got blood pressure medication.
@Bitcoin DCA They were paid by the pharmaco mafia. It is bizzare that a country like China allowed a Western company to turn their citizens into addicts. You would think that their government would be extra careful with anything that comes from the West, especially drugs.
Thank you so very much for covering this subject. I was prescribed Klonopin in 2008. My dosage was gradually increased over the years and now I am prescribed the legal max. I've tried many times to taper myself off of them, and have gone right back to taking them due to the withdrawal symptoms. You are spot on about taking them just to "stay well". I'm ready to come off of them with medical assistance, if I have to. The problem is finding a DR. who understands that you can't use the same method to step down as someone who was responsibly prescribed for just a few weeks vs. several years of daily use. Again, thank you. The general public in the US need to know the dangers of this drug.
Look into the Ashton Manual for a humane way to taper.
I used to combine xanex & methadone. It amazes me that I'm still here but I believe my reason for surviving is to spread awareness & share my story. To try & help others. I have a scar over my left eye from a seizure I had while going through benzo withdrawals. At the same time my poor body was going through opiate withdrawals. I was wearing sunglasses inside because I felt like complete shit! Next thing I remember was waking up in the floor with a crowd standing over me. I was bleeding from a deep gash above my left eye. My head struck the corner of a coffee table with my sunglasses on. They broke & split my left eyebrow into. I was waiting to be admitted to a rehab but took a trip to the hospital instead that day. I had agoraphobia & severe panic attacks following for a while. I only take zoloft now for anxiety & I'm fine with that. I do daily yoga now to manage anxiety. Eat clean & just take my zoloft. It's made a huge difference!!! I will never take another benzo again as long as I live or opiate, unless I HAVE to.
There is no pill out there that can take away all anxiety. What does work over time is lots of hard work reframing old habits & thoughts. Exposure therapy & learning how to turn your parasympatetic nervous system on. Eating right, limiting caffeine, exercise, etc. CBD can be helpful too. It was CBD & yoga that got me through the rough beginning of starting zoloft. The start was rough but after a few months, the sun came out again & everything was different. It was easier to work on my reframing & exposure therapy.
I will add that I'm not telling anyone not to take benzos, but use extreme caution & awareness when you do. My doctor had written the script for me to take 2 a day, not 2 as needed but 2 a day. As young as I was at the time I did not know what I know now. I took them as prescribed & suffered significantly.
Me too 200mg of methadone plus 4 or 5 xans at once and after a while I just started buying flualp and other rcs that were legal at the time and dosing those plus a bit of h every now and then , I od and died a few times but not once during that time period
Started Xanax to treat my severe panic attacks and anxiety disorder - ended up getting hooked onto it for 7 years because of personal mismanagement... Please, if anyone is reading this - if you're taking Benzos, or whatever psychiatric medication you are taking, be careful and always follow your physician's directions.
Been clean for two years and I cannot imagine myself being in that hole again.
Just wanna say make sure the physician is a good one first!
I followed a doctors direction on the doses, I was not informed about them being addictive and I also ended hooked up on xanax, experienced a withdrawal and I had no idea what that was at the moment, I was delirious and all. Horrible. I hated forgetting everything and just stopped taking them, had to treat the addiction for 3 months with another doctor and another substance. The first recommended xanax 1mg daily and 0,5mg if I have a panic attack. After 2 weeks on xan the panic attacks were constant and lasted up to 10h.
@@jasminegallella8208 That is true… especially in countries where doctors can sell medication, benzodiazepines are an easy way out to improve your problem short term - but not actually solving the root
@@jasminegallella8208 that doctor should be in prison. Absolutely disgusting how common your experience is.
Thank you for handling this subject with the compassion and empathy I feel the people who have gone through it deserve.
The mentally ill who actually ask for help and are willing to try different remedies, sometimes to our extreme detriment, are the truly strong and amazing people on this earth. People who have not been through it have no clue and need to stop judging.
Especially the medical community. It’s their literal job to help us. And some of the snobbiest, cruelest people I’ve ever known in my life are doctors and nurses. I know there are a lot of great ones, but the bad ones screw up their reputation.
I worked in numerous ophthalmic offices for about 6 years and that experience thoroughly demystified health care workers to me. There were a lot of kind and well meaning people, but there were just as many that either didn't care about the well being of their patients or who made active efforts to exploit them for gain or just for the sheer joy of bullying.
I've been on a prescription low-dose benzo for over a decade to deal with epilepsy and PTSD (fun cocktails?) . It can aid with some epilpesy meds to keep seizures controlled. So, yeah, I'm not apologizing if it helps me stay *seizure-free for years and years*!
Youre using them for their purpose. This video is abt abusing them just to get high.
Yeah, I have CPTSD and occasional super-fun panic disorder. On the up side, it's now been (checks calendar) wow, five months since I've needed a dose, so that's nice. My neurologist also monitors my usage very carefully.
I took alprazolam and then Clonazepam for years for my depression and anxiety but I can't say I became an addict. I've always had a huge respect for my meds and never take more than the dose my psychiatrist prescribed even when I sometimes think the meds are not 'working'. Last year my doctor took me off Clonazepam, but game me an extra med for a short period of time to help me cope with withdrawals. All I can say is never ever take more than the dose your doctor prescribed you and never self-medicate. Education is also a great tool, so do your research and learn every bit about whatever meds a doctor prescribes and when the time comes for your doctor to wean you off a certain drug, don't resist.
I have epilepsy, and it was watching patients firsthand at the retail pharmacy I worked for battle their Benzo addictions that made me swear to never let my neurologist prescribe me Clonazepam. I have been on many seizure medications and still have many more options before I may have to break that oath, but each therapeutic failure brings me closer and closer to breaking down. It’s hard because I used to speak to patients who would tell me that they’d been seizure-free for years because of Clonazepam. I want that relief too, but the cost of addiction is too great. These same patients who would minutes before be telling me how great the drug was would go into a blinding rage when the pharmacist would tell them that they couldn’t refill it until the next day. 28 days out of 30 was the earliest my retail pharmacy could do, same with maintenance opioids. And while these patients would still have two days on hand, they would scream and cry and beg the pharmacist that their anxiety would skyrocket if they didn’t have a certain number of pills on hand. I couldn’t deal with that kind of need for a drug. I will only succumb if my options somehow run out, and, for now, that seems unlikely.
Have you tried a ketogenic diet for your epilepsy. For some people the seizures stop or become less frequent when their brain uses ketones for fuel instead of glucose.
🤔🤓🍻
Fellow Eleplitic and x pharmacy assistant. I shocks me about Benzos as well and I have other issues that have left me needing care.
I use Clonazepam for when I feel an aura coming on, pre-seizure. I have tried multiple different seizure meds over the last 30+ years, but I have only started to feel the aura in the last couple years. The clonazepam makes it so the seizure doesn’t occur, or if it does, it isn’t severe. No meds have ever been able to fully prevent my seizures. My neurologist only gives be a prescription for 15 pills to make sure I don’t form a habit on that (as I have a VERY addictive personality……..)
Wishing you the best from Michigan 😊
Oh god, I’ve seen people fighting with pharmacists many times over shit like this. It’s very disturbing..
Sounds like you've got crazy Karens on klonopin running loose, not just regular people. It really saddens me that you won't try a proven treatment out of fear from all the hype, but the decision is, of course, one that only you can make.
This is a fantastic and informative video! Another horrifying fact is that 70% of Suboxone prescriptions are paired with a benzo for "maintenance."
I just wanted to add this: There are cases where there is no good option, for example I've tried 6 different antidepressants from several drug classes, antipsychotics for anxiety/insomnia, mood stabilizers, etc. I however found exposure to work, but I do personally know several people with severe, and I do mean severe anxiety who tried everything I tried and didn't get help from therapy, and for them there isn't another option than benzos. This however is a very small fraction of the population. Same thing applies to opioids, though there I have tried everything and actually have ended up on opioids since it's literally the only thing that works (muscle relaxants, paracetamol, nsaids, antidepressants all failed my pain). Just remember that sometimes there isn't a better option. A lot of people have very, very strong opinions about these medications but clearly don't have even a tiny bit of experience with living with anxiety so severe that it makes you physically ill (chills, can't breathe, chest pain, 150bpm pulse, numb limbs, headache, etc) or pain that makes you consider suicide more than depression ever did. All I'm saying is don't entirely discount these drugs, however yes I do agree they need to be given only under certain circumstances: for example when other treatments were first tried, and there needs to be good follow up and it needs to be a part of a detailed treatment plans which includes doing other things at the same time and simply not just giving the meds and giving up. I.e physical therapy for pain, or exposure therapy or cbt for anxiety
This comment is not nearly appreciated as much as it should be. As someone who has been on 8 antidepressants, 5 antipsychotics, and multiple others, Benzos, specifically Valium, have been the only medication that actually stopped the panic attacks long term. It sure beats sobbing at work and losing my job 😂
Very true.
Doctors just want you addicted to drugs. Benzos should be completely discounted as anything except a recreational drug. Certainly shouldn't be giving horribly addictive depressants to the depressed. Makes everything so much worse.
I guess th key to overcoming any addiction is to create a life that you don't want to escape from.
This is scary I was on benzos for probably 7 years along with two other medications for my seizures. I ended up coming off of them due to having a major mental breakdown where I took a handful to just not feel things. My doctor pulled me off of them at that point but never gave me any inclination they were this bad to take. I’m lucky I made it through that rough patch but if I’d known this before I wouldn’t have even started taking them.
I honestly didn't know HOW dependent I was on valium, until I ran out overseas. I was literally pulling my own hair out, and didn't know why I flipped out until years later. I thought I was losing my mind.
As a recovering opiate addict (7 months sober), benzos were the one thing I refused to screw around with. I used them seldomly recreationally, and a little during my many opiate withdrawals. After I dated a benzo addict and saw the absolute hell they put him in, I swore them off for good. Only took them in opiate withdrawal, but never for any other reason. Benzo withdrawal is brutal; they give you heart attacks and seizures, psychosis, uncontrollable anxiety, you may not be able to sleep for over a week. It's horrible because all you want is to get some escape from it in the form of sleep, but no, you can't, you have to suffer in this delirious state as you get weaker day by day. Horrific stuff. My ex always ended up relapsing because he couldn't take it. He's still on them today. Benzos scare me.
I was a serious methadone/opiate addict for over a decade and the lack of ability to sleep was the hardest part. Literally a year later and I still struggled to get a proper night's sleep 😞
Glad that's in the past!
@@technomage6736
I was on methadone for 17 long years. I feel you. 💚
You can always cry out to Jesus. That's what i did when i was addicted. He set me free.
It is a deal with the devil.I am attempting to taper DOWN but without Spousal/Work Support,IT IS Difficult.Been on it for YEARS.Feel like a dead man walking.GOD Bless.😊
Was severely hooked on benzos and heroin (which became mostly all fentanyl) back in the mid 2010s. Went to jail for a few months at the end of 2016 and all I can say is I wouldn’t wish the wd’s on my worst enemy. Complete hell on earth. For months. No sleep at all, Constant panic, loud noises would send jolts through my spine to the back of my head, unfathomable crushing depression, can’t eat anything, and all I constantly thought about were ways I could kill myself to make it end which was the only thing that brought any comfort just knowing that option was a way out. Been clean from both substances since then. If hell exists I guarantee benzo withdrawal is the closest experience to it you can get without actually being there.
I've been on prescription benzos for over ten years and thankfully my Dr. has been upfront with me about the dangers from day one. At first I was on a moderate dose several times a day but after several years, other medications and behavioral therapy, I now only take one in the morning- more of a maintenance dose than anything- and have them in case I have a panic attack. They're a lifesaver in regards to my anxiety but I'm just as addicted to them as someone who buys them from a black market dealer. It really sucks that we can't have things that make life feel less bleak without them also killing us. 😑
Recent reactionary state laws have made it a nightmare for me to get access to some of the meds I really need. I’ve never experienced the slightest hint of addiction for anything.
I know. This video has me concerned they are gonna go after my seizure meds now since a benzo is the only thing that prevents my form of epilepsy 🤦♀️ im not afraid of withdrawals... im afraid of going back to seizures.
@@AliciaGuitar this is happening to me my dr retired and years of being treated with clonazepam the new dr thinks I should come off 🙄 it is working well for my seizures and no horrific side effects like most other seizure meds
Drugies!!
Unfortunately, you are a member of a very large club of patients who need these meds to function and find them hard to get. The pendulum swung so far as a reaction to the opiate problem that legitimate patients are the ones getting punished for it. Pain clinics cut people off cold turkey and others aren't accepting new patients. It would be one thing if these efforts had any effect on the opiate crisis, but it's as bad as ever. All of a sudden, you are getting treated like an addict when you have never abused your meds and you have to jump through hoops just to get the prescription by seeing a doctor every 30 days for a new one, which is overkill. The last people who should have to drive to a clinic 12 times a year just for the meds they've been on for a decade or more. People who have already tried every other remedy and need certain drugs to function.
Dependence and addiction are 2 very different things, but some people clearly don't understand that. We went from doctors handing out Schedule II meds like candy to making life miserable for people who really need them. It's crazy and inhumane. I had to go to 7 pharmacies just to find one that would fill my prescription. A prescription I could never get unless the need was there and I passed all the tests to qualify. I get drug tested and monitored and have proven to be responsible, but it doesn't matter. This situation has led to many suicides. It's not right. We have an employee who went on benzos and it saved his life. There is a place for these drugs, but like opiates, they have been overprescribed. In both cases, these drugs should be a last resort, but they should not be hard to get if you are in that category. And I hope the commenter on this thread who wrote "Druggies!" never has a condition where these drugs are needed. Before I got an extremely painful chronic disease I would not even take an aspirin. I tried every natural remedy in the book for a decade before going on narcotics. By then my other choice was to go on disability and spend all day in bed. One thing this illness has taught me is not to judge others and to have more compassion.
Physical dependancy and addiction are medically distinct.
Unfortunately politically they are not
6:53 keep in mind that those are just statistics, so those 84% are not total but relative. Which means if your risk was 0.2% its now 0.3%
The side effects of detachment and lack of emotions are part of what killed my father. They would routinely mail him 3 months of Xanax Rx across state lines. Doctors ignored his depression and alcoholism and just upped his dose. Thank you for this video
That is so true about nursing homes. I’ve witnessed a farmer, a strong, mobile, albeit confused bloke. Rather than control his behaviour by nursing skill, inter personal skills, they dropped him up to the extent that he was a shambling wreck, barely capable of walking. That was the common thing to do with “awkward” resident-dope them up. Profits before adequate staffing levels!!!
As a pharm tech of 15+ years, thank you for covering this. The opioid epidemic is in the public consciousness, but benzos? Not so much. The sheer amount of people I come across who are simply shocked their doctor prescribed them a "controlled" medication tells me docs are prescribing them without adequately educating patients in recent years.
Benzos are over in the UK they’ve been pretty much banned unless it’s a severe case
Other pharmacy tech here, we get people coming into our pharmacy very clearly strung out on benzos, but you can’t turn them away, you just have to feed their addictions. Personally it makes me feel sick to my stomach and has weighed on me for ages,
@@Sch1z0gam1ng then perhaps you ought to consider a new career. I mean, if it Has been weighing on you."
@@Sch1z0gam1ng It’s none of your business and not your job to judge them. Would you rather they not get them and die during withdrawals? Mind your own damn business or find another job.
@@Sch1z0gam1ng you aren't a doctor. your job is to put pills in a bottle Just do your job
I have BAD dental phobia, so when I had to go in for wisdom tooth removal, my dental surgeon prescribed me Halcyon to take before I came in. It’s a very strong benzo. Holy MOLY, what a ride. Ten minutes after the pills I was slumped down in the passenger seat giggling at everything, feeling like I was floating without a care in the world (normally just going in for my checkup has me needing to squeeze stress balls in the chair and occasionally being sick to my stomach in the waiting room…) and then I have only a vague memory of even walking into the dentist. Aside from some drunk-style texts I sent people later, I don’t even remember the rest of that day until I woke up in bed at home at 3 in the afternoon (my surgery was at 9 am). They worked- but sweet bajeesus, no WONDER they were so strictly controlled at the pharmacy. I can’t imagine being addicted to that. I’m also ADHD comorbid with autism- Since my brain is constantly seeking dopamine AND a release of the never ending low-key daily anxiety, I KNOW how dangerous they could be for me to take with my brain being what it is if I had a prescription on hand and I just won’t take the risk.
Had ativan prescribed to me at 13 when I had horrible insomnia, didnt even know it was anything so problematic until I went to pick it up at the pharmacy and they acted like I was well, picking up something dangerous, which I was in hindsight. I've seen enough drug addiction in my life that frankly taking it I knew it could be a problem and I never got refills but yeah, wow is the effect dramatic. I ended up just keeping the pills and using them for specific things like my first day in a new class or job interviews, can't imagine having taken them daily like I was told to
I quit Benzos but went through 5 seizures and uncontrollable anxiety. Worst withdrawals I ever went through
I visited a psych ward to see a relative and the doctor said that 80% of those in the ward were there from Benzos. There were accountants, preachers, lawyers and every segment of society being treated there. It’s not that they needed Benzos . It was just easy for them to take drugs than to deal with the root cause of their anxiety. Benzos are a bandaid for the vast majority of people who take them. They were never intended for regular use and almost always increase the problems of people who use them long term.
Personally, clonazepam has been a life changer for me. In a positive way. I’ve had SEVERE panic attacks for over thirty years. Cognitive therapy has helped immensely, but when I cannot control it myself klonopin is my only alternative other than a trip to the ER. I’ve struggled with alcohol addiction for decades, but never had an issue with benzos.
Try getting off them,that's where the problem lays
@@patswayze7359 True, but I've never taken them regularly enough to become physically dependent.
You likely are addicted to them and don’t realize it.
@No Name I take a pill on average about once a month..so I think not.
@@forestfishburne7900 glad to know you don't take them often. Benzos can be super helpful when used sparingly. Was worries you were taking them daily while also dealing with an alcohol addiction, which would be super bad.
It’s good having someone like Simon to shed a light on this problem. So many people don’t take this problem seriously, this is one of the main reasons why the problem with prescription drugs isn’t getting better. In fact it’s getting worse and until we start holding these pharmaceutical companies accountable for their actions nothing will ever change, at least for the better. Thank you for video, I’m glad someone is taking the time to discuss this problem and share this information with the public.
Their actions? How about the people popping the pills?
I know many people that have had absolutely no issues with benzos and also experienced significant improvement with minimal side effects in their conditions when taken properly. Videos, articles, and news like this make it extremely difficult for people that have a legitimate need for these prescriptions to receive their proper meds because information like this has the effect of demonizing doctors and patients away from these medications.
You’re wrong, when you take something you have to be informed, it’s no secret Benzos can be dangerous and misused
People abusing benzos (and opioids) are why it's so difficult for people who actually do need them to get them. I take a very low dose of lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for panic attacks & acetaminophen with codeine (Tylenol 3) for chronic pain. I only take them when I really need them, I don't abuse them because I don't want to have a high tolerance and need stronger meds to get relief. Oh yeah, I also take muscle relaxers for back spasms. The combination of the 3 isn't dangerous if you're not stupid about it.
Payed for by cvs. Lots of drugs fo that dummy
I understand the importance of talking about these things, and yes they were overused and abused (and yes some still are today), but there are many people who legitimately need these drugs and are not zombie-addicts. The problem is now mostly that those who really need these medications can't get them because it's now been villainized.
Exactly. Just wonder how many suicides it had been if people didnt got relief.
So this villainism do not help!
Alcohol fx take most lives of all.
Amen!!
The crap is so over prescribed it's insane and ruining millions of young people's lives. The less script's written the better for everyone. Go buy more Phizer stock.
It's the sane with opiods. As a chronic pain sufferer, I've been restricted to a dose 1/6 of my old dose and I no longer have a life.
@@tredjesongen thanks so much for your kind words. I actually live in Canada, and the worst thing about it is that it's the politicians making these decisions. The drs. here are scared they'll lose their license if they prescribe opiods. I've tried so many things for relief I've lost count. Ketamine treatment is an option, so that may be my next attempt. I guess if things get too bad, at least we have legal suicide now. I'm glad you've found something thet helps you. Wishing you continued relief. Peace ✌️ ☮️
As someone who has had a lifelong struggle with mental illness, I'm so glad you did this. I've been working on finding a drug free way to manage my problems because I didn't think a pill alone was enough. People need to know the bad side effects.
For me, these drugs are simply borrowing tomorrows dopamine to use today. It leaves me on a shortage, a “low” the days after I take a pill. This low is worse than what I felt before. Opioids also made me feel really, really awful which gives me an aversion towards them. I’m very grateful I haven’t developed an addiction to any of these.
FINALLY, SOMEONE IS TALKING ABOUT IT. Simon, please, for the love of God, put this on a bigger channel.
I was put on a benzo with no idea of what staying on could cause. When I tried to get off after a decade of use it was the most insane, horrible experience ever. And it lasts. And lasts. For. Ever. Weeks of acute withdrawal. The rebound is a million times worse than whatever put you on. I went off opiates cold turkey and that's a freaking tickle. For the love of your life, do not mess around with the benzos to the point of addiction.
That’s what I was curious about-
Opioid withdrawals are one thing, how is is different ?
benzo withdrawals can literally kill you, whereas opioid withdrawals dont. benzo withdrawals can give you fatal seizures etc, whereas opioid withdrawals are physical pain, diarrhoea, intense fevers/sweating. (i havent had either but know people who have had both and they all say they would rather have opioid withdrawals)
@@tifKh for me personally, the opioid withdrawal just feels like you are sick with a cold. Maybe a flu? But it's just sick. The benzo withdrawal made me paranoid, hallucinate, and have the worst anxiety of my life. I was terrified to leave my house for weeks. Plus, you feel like absolute shit. I'd take an opioid withdrawal 100 times over one benzo withdrawal. And like the other user pointed out. Opioid withdrawal can't kill you. Benzo can. I did do mean under doctor supervision and it still was awful.
i was on a low dose of benzos for some years. after a year or so i noticed that the prescribed dosage wasn't effective anymore and i needed more to get the desired effect. after a while i stopped taking it altogether. the withdrawal was not fun. i was paranoid, bad tempered, not sleeping, shaky, and it altered my perception, i couldn't look at things (especially if they were moving) with both eyes - for months. my dr. was unhappy with my decision and said there was nothing that he could give me to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms. i wouldn't have wanted it anyway. but i can tell you that i'm changed since having taken that medication and i don't think in a good way.
At 16 I was given Librium to handle my mother's death. I hated the pills. They actually made it harder to handle my emotions. When the meds wore off I would cry my eyes out. You see the problem. I just quit after a month on my own.
I am sorry that you had to experience that heartache.
Good for you yo👍🏽
Was in treatment for 10 years on Methadone. Half that time I was prescribed kpins while 180mgs of methadone. It's such a roll of dice and luck I'm alive today. Lost so many friends on thease.
Benzos saved my life. I’ve been taking them for 10+ years and never increased dosage - I’ll most likely be on them forever. I can attest to the HORRIFIC withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking them for a couple days. I take an anti-seizure med just in case, because I’ve had multiple horrendous seizures when I was randomly cut off by a horrible doctor. I’m also prescribed opioids along w/ my Xanax prescription for severe post-acute Lyme disease pain. The Xanax is for severe panic disorder. For both issues I have we’ve went though numerous SSRI/SNRI meds, as well as muscle relaxers and various physical therapy (which I still do). None of these worked. I don’t have any issues w/ memory, etc. as well. So again, I’ll say, Xanax (benzos) saved my life. They’re not for everyone - nor is oxycodone - but they’re certainly for me.
I’m not saying you are incorrect on your withdrawal symptoms. Everyone is different. For me, withdrawal from a benzo is not in the same ballpark as opioids are. It’s not even on the same planet. Otherwise, I agree with your point you made entirely.
@@Gen-XTex oxys?
@@ceramikxxx5882 please ask the whole question. I don’t know what you mean by just asking “oxy’s?”
@@Gen-XTex Opioid withdrawal is no picnic either, but going cold turkey off benzos stands out in my mind as particularly unpleasant - especially given how long those withdrawals can last for.
@@LITHIATEDANGEL 10-4. I understand. I take Temazepam for sleep problem. Kinda hard to attempt to party with that particular benzo because it is attenuated for causing sleep. Take more than a regular dose just puts you to sleep. Literally, if I don’t have any for some rare reason, I just can’t fall asleep, which the exact same thing that occurred that necessitated them in the first place. I’ve never been prescribed the much more common Xanax, so I have no reason to doubt what any of y’all are saying here.
I was prescribed Atavan as an ER med until I could get to a doc. Was given 2 weeks worth. Only took 3 days because I got the side effects of extreme aggression and depression. I had 3 kids at home and they didn't need to see daddy get mentally fucked up even more
I've been addicted to benzos twice, once in college and once in university. They were cheap and easy to get, and I usually had one or more friend in addiction with me. We'd often bulk buy saying we were gonna sell to make a profit but usually just end up taking it all, only selling to each other. As an anxious depressed insomniac teenager, I loved how it made me feel, all the overthinking stopped. If I had to describe the high I would say it was just nothing, blissful oblivion. As someone who had always been an over thinker it was heaven. I stopped because both times because two separate friendship groups who weren't using with me said the same thing verbatim "We don't like it when you're on benzos, you have nothing to say, it's like you're not there" This hit hard the second time, when friends I had recently made at university were saying the same things as my college friends had two years earlier. I'll admit I was a zombie on benzos, I was also drinking heavily and smoking weed which can't of helped, though my friends who were using with me were much more high functioning, it's why some of them are still addicted today 4 years later. I quit benzos and never looked back, it's one drug I'll always turn down if I'm offered. Coming off them was hell, I ruined what could have been my first relationship due to my erratic and frankly insane behavior. I was incredibly paranoid all the time, constantly in fear of being arrested or kicked out of university, my paranoia manifested in campus security, I would leave parties to go and sit in my room alone. Overall the come down was like 3-4 months of hell, and I've lost entire months of my life where a really have no idea what I was doing.
I would personally never touch benzos again, and would advice anyone against them, it's so easy to get addicted to £1 pills that take all the worry and pain away but in the end it's not worth it.
it's gonna be different for everyone, so your advice should best be 'don't take them regularly long-term'. ppl who use it infrequently, it's fine. but it surprises me that... well, I'm assuming lower doses weren't working for you, or? I did go off them for a month since I got scared that I had to start taking 2, but then I got back down to 0.5~1mg again.
Benzos are really tough for people with chronic anxiety. I became addicted to them when I was running from my anxiety and past. I have been on and off for years, in rehab for other addictions, but have always gravitated back to benzos on a truly medicinal level...I have panic attacks so physically and psychologically incapacitating that I can't always cope. But having that big old "drug addict" label slapped on my files makes it harder to get prescribed medication like that, and have to rely on getting them in a more dangerous market. The whole situation is ridiculous, and although I'm working on the root causes of those anxieties, C-PTSD does not resolve overnight, and until then, the anxiety persists. This is why the war on drugs is not working for the people.
Magnolia bark tincture, try it
@@m0ckingB1rd42 I am writing this down right now and will head to my local health food store later on today and will pick some up. Thank you for the suggestion! I have used kava in the past but haven't tried magnolia bark, and I'm open to trying literally ANYTHING that others have found success with. Is it something that works right away or after consistent use? I will also do a bit of digging to find out more info but I really appreciate the lead in a more natural direction, thank you for taking the time to suggest it😊
I was prescribed Valium for panic attacks that lasted for hours. I was using biofeedback and breathing but was non function during the attacks. I was shocked at how fast and well it worked. It just made everything smooth. I never took the prescribed amount and the thought of how addictive it could be, helped me make it through some bad attacks. I’m strong willed and I think that saved me. I was fully aware of how ‘easy’ it was. I can fully understand how addiction occurs and I can’t imagine how hard it would be to stop
I grew up in the 80s and 90s at the height of this horrific event. I was prescribed opioids for a neck injury playing football that took me down a 20 year road of the most horrific life. I finally got completely clean but I pay for this every day of my life now. I'll never trust another doctor.
He's talking about benzos, not opioids. Two completely different drug classes my friend. You can still trust doctors, remember, you were the one telling them you were in pain for 20 years. Recovering addict here, just saying my friend. I got hooked on prescription pills too and I don't blame the doctor I blame myself.
@@jsully8076 These doctors prescribed hydrocodone, soma and Xanax. I know what it's like to get off all 3 but my preference was hydrocodone because I worked outside and was raising 3 children and couldn't afford to do the soma shuffle for 12 hours per day. I had no knowledge of what I was getting into and there wasn't google in those days so I completely blame the doctor for not telling be the consequences. That's exactly why the cocksuckers get paid 300 damn dollars for a 5 minute visit...
@Dr Hamter L.M.H.C.Well said Doc! I'm right there with you. Much love, and stay happy joyous and free from your sister in the Midwest!
These made me nearly destroy my life. I have stayed off for 2 years now and still have daily anxiety now as a result. Please don’t abuse these.
The Veterans Affairs in the USA used to hand them out like Skittles. I don’t like to think of all my fellow veterans that I personally knew that died of overdoses from their prescriptions. Dozens of them.☮️
I was given Ativan at 17 years old- thankfully I only ever used it as prescribed and once my panic attacks were better managed, I simply stopped taking it. It definitely improved the quality of my life, but even now, its never a medication I would recommend. Some risks aren't worth it- I'm just glad it worked me when nothing else had.
Addiction is also largely influenced by the individual's specific personality. Not everyone is prone to become an addict as easily as others.
"recommended for use between 2 and 4 weeks"
That's already pretty optimistic. Most doctors only prescribe it for 1 week at most, for good reason. Acute cases. For that it's amazingly effective. It won't make people suffering from depressive disorders feel great, but it could help them sleep and make it to the next day. If that patient had an addiction from it before, this avenue is closed off. The problem is in practical medicine, I think.
Benzos can be a godsend for some people, if doctors are careful.
This is the kind of video to cause a knock at your door. Good job Simon and team.
Thank you for making this video! Benzo abuse and addiction really isn't discussed enough. We've got to do something (other than outright banning them) about this, although frankly I don't know what the solution is.
And I'm saying this as someone who has been prescribed Klonopin for about 5 years. It gave me my life back. I was having panic attacks constantly due to PTSD and I couldn't hold down a job even as a part-time cashier. Initially I took them every day, for several months. Gradually I decreased the frequency. Now and for the past year or so, it depends on the week, but I take them anywhere from 1-4 times a week, but never more than 2 days in a row. I've never experienced withdrawal. I don't know whether I'll be on it forever and I'd prefer not to, but for now it helps me to live a more normal life. I don't experience any side effects. It's like opioids and stimulants for ADHD- if you really need it, and take it as prescribed, you're not going to feel high. You're just going to feel more "normal."
I'm really glad we're bringing to light the issue of benzo abuse/addiction but I think it's important to keep in mind people like myself who genuinely benefit from these medications. They shouldn't be handed out like candy. But they also shouldn't be as hard to get as a ticket to a Taylor Swift concert when you clearly would benefit from taking them.
Take it from someone who's been there: addiction is an incredibly scary place and it'll be years before you ever realize you need help.
When I was first prescribed Valium, I was shocked at how much I’d be given with each refill. I became so addicted that three months after I’d stopped taking it, it was still showing up in urine tests. And that initial withdrawal…..I thought I was losing my mind. Just awful stuff.
I work in a pharmacy and am alarmed by the amount of benzos I hand to patients each week. I am glad a video was made about it showing the unsavory details of the drug. Keep up the good work!
I had a script from a psychiatrist for 6 MG of klonopin a day 2 mgs 3 times daily. It was not good
You should contact the prescriber, it could save lives
I'm just going to comment on my personal experience on your 'alarmed opinion'.
Do you by chance diagnose the patients you fill prescriptions for before passing judgment? Or is it just all of us that take prescribed alprazolam/klonopin/ect? Or even opiates too?
I have had 3 seperate 'pharmaceutical employees' contact my provider questioning my xanax prescription prescribed by a NEUROSURGEON. I am prescribed 2mg x 4 every 12 hours. I'm sure your gasping with disdain as you read this.
I was a former Paramedic with over 20 years experience when I was suddenly stricken with violent seizures lasting longer than 4-5 minutes, and some even with breathing cessation. I Went from fully independent, career oriented, to having life threatening grand mal seizures up to 6 - 9 a day!!
After a long stay on an Epilepsy Unit, it was determined I have PNES. They are non Epileptic seizures. But triggered by Severe Childhood and adult Trauma, Severe Insomnia, and some just whenever they want to happen.
A great many of us HAVE NO OTHER OPTION! So when pharmacy employees automatically pass judgment, like you and your some replies here are?
You are the reason some can't even get the medication they desperately need!
I don't like them, and I don't like what they do to my body, but I damn sure want to live if I can!!
And for mr.pdf, mind your own business. Who is a pharmacist to question a Medical Physician?
Now if they are calling early for their refills, or belligerent about the refill dates, I can see it.
But as a patient that desperately needs this medicine just to stay alive, was labeled as an "addict" and "a drug seeker" by seperate pharmacy employees WITHOUT MERRITT. And once those terms are put in your chart by someone "thinking" they are qualified to question your Dr? Even your insurance company is notified, and it's damn near impossible to get removed! I had to get numerous letters sent from my Neurosurgeon because of people not even qualified to make that determination. So stop automatically passing your alarmed judgment. Just despense as written unless there's a contraindication with another drug they are currently on.
Leave the rest to the qualified educated individuals.
You do far more harm than good!! I know!
I was given valium / diazepam for anxiety and it made a massive difference. Probably part of the reason I'm still here.
Sertraline on the other hand nearly made me unalive myself.
Yep same. Sertraline is nasty
This. Still not getting any gabenergic, but I have enough poor man's Xanax (phenibut) to last me for a long time and I've made progress with it in 3 years equivalent of the progress I had made in 15 years with SSRI's or nothing.
The side effects aren't even close to anything else I've had: zoloft, escitalopram, seroquel, mirtazapine, zolpidem and bupropion. (not all for anxiety, just for perspective)
Phenibut and cannabis gave me my life back. I'm also on mirtazapine and bupropion which also help but I hope they will be unnecessary soon. Cannabis is more for damage control, for suicidal thoughts, eating, low potency etc. because of failure of prior treatment that has f'd my brain.
My advice to doctors from a patent with high suffering: don't give gabaergics to people with low anxiety, but please don't gatekeep them from people with high anxiety, high suffering or treatment resistant anxiety. Very few will abuse them and most are rational enough to go get help for quitting them when they cause more bad than good.
Exposure therapy cannot work when the patient is too anxious, too suicidal to even get their own food.
@@REXFORGTself medding sensibly with cannabis relieved stress from ptsd far better than ssri's and vallys
@@REXFORGT thanks for sharing this. I keep feeling like I need to get off my meds to find some real peace - but underneath the meds, there is no peace but mind breaking pain and trauma. On meds I could at least progress with figuring out what's happening and who knows maybe someday I'll get to a point where I won't need it anymore but until then, making it to the next day is challenging enough as it is...
I'm on Lexapro, but on Zoloft, it made me feel like a zombie. I was always dizzy, agitated, angry, upset, and depressed. I know it helps some, but for those it doesn't help, it can get pretty bad.
Im actually allergic to benzos, how I found out, marks one of the most terrifying moments in my life, and trust me, Ive had a lot of them. I was so paranoid, it still scares me to think about those moments...
I'm bipolar and also have pretty severe C-PTSD and rely on Valium and other medications to prevent me from becoming psychotic or suicidal. I recognise that some people are over prescribed their benzodiazepines but it is also prescribed for legitimate patients like myself. That's worth mentioning as well instead of just demonising the substance.
We are all legit patients,do you think your special? Don't you think that people warning people about them don't truly suffer from the same things you do if not more,it's easy to point at everyone else and say "not me ,not me"..wake up
@@patswayze7359 I, and other's I've met from being in the psyc ward multiple times, rely on benzo's. They work for us. So, I'm not saying that for some people they're not ok, I'm saying that benzo's have their place. This has nothing to do with me thinking I'm special, I'm representing the other side of the argument which was not mentioned in this video.
I’ve got the same diagnoses as you. Timely targeted use of benzodiazepines has saved my life on more than one occasion. Haven’t needed them in a while thank goodness, but nothing else works for catatonia or a panic spiral.