OUR AIMS � To help those who are addicted to benzodiazepines and Z drugs and who wish to withdraw from them to do so as comfortably as possible and to help them to make the changes necessary in life after withdrawal. � To educate and inform all those who may come across the problem of benzodiazepine addiction either personally or professionally towards an understanding of the difficulties caused by the drugs' action and the compounding of these difficulties in withdrawal. � To influence services in their prescribing, managing and supporting of clients who take/want to withdraw from benzodiazepines and similar drugs.
WHAT AND WHY � They enhance GABA activity in the brain resulting in anxiolytic, sedative, relaxant, amnesic and anticonvulsant effect. � Some reasons for taking them are complex and vary but may include: � To feel normal or able to cope. � To treat anxiety or low mood. � To improve confidence. � To treat insomnia. � To potentiate the euphoric effects of opioids.
DOWN - REGULATION � Chronic use can make physiological changes and tolerance occurs. � Physical and psychological dependence. � Emotional suppression. � Reduces use of coping skills.
TOLERANCE & WITHDRAWAL � Tolerance can build quickly and more benzos are required for initial effect. � Withdrawal can begin while still taking the drug. � Confusing symptoms of withdrawal for other problems. � Although withdrawal symptoms can last for a long time they are always temporary.
Start taking benzos Become Increasing or physically withdrawing addicted Down regulation Physical & Psychological & withdrawal tolerance
PSYCHOMOTOR & EMOTIONAL IMPAIRMENT � Motor inco-ordination. � Poor memory. � Poor concentration. � Poor retention of information. � Mental confusion. � Unpredictable mood swings. � Emotional anaesthesia.
WHAT WE DO � Psychological support (groups & one2one). � Accurate information & encouragement. � Listen & understand. � Believe there is a life worth living after benzos.
WITHDRAWING THE BENZOS � FAST – enter the twilight zone. � SLOW – adapt, cope and move through it. � Return of thoughts, feelings, insecurities and more. � Emotional and mental rollercoaster. � Withdrawal symptoms and weakened coping skills.
REDUCING � If using benzodiazepines other than diazepam we suggest to convert to and stabilise on diazepam � Reduce slowly and no sooner than every third week � For some people reductions should be 5 – 10% of their dose (30mg = cut of 3mg & 20mg means cut of 2mg etc). � Regular reviews.
HOW TO REFER � Phone 0117 969 0303 or 0117 966 3629. � Email support@bataid.org . � Agency, professional or self refer. • National support line 0844 826 9317. www.bataid.org
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