Benzodiazepines, often called “benzos,” are prescription medications commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and panic disorders. When used appropriately, they can be effective tools in managing mental health conditions. However, over time, these medications can lead to physical dependence and, for many, full-blown addiction.
We understand the complex nature of benzodiazepine addiction. Therefore, our comprehensive benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Michigan provides a safe, supportive space to begin the healing process. If you or someone you love is struggling, you’re not alone, and real recovery is possible.
About Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs that slow down brain activity, creating a calming effect. They’re commonly prescribed for short-term use, often for anxiety, panic attacks, seizures, or sleep disorders. Some well-known names in this category include:
- Xanax (alprazolam)
- Valium (diazepam)
- Ativan (lorazepam)
- Klonopin (clonazepam)
- Librium (chlordiazepoxide)
Though these medications can offer short-term relief, prolonged use increases the risk of dependence. What starts as a prescription can quietly evolve into a serious problem.
How Benzodiazepine Addiction Develops
Addiction to benzodiazepines doesn’t usually happen overnight. It often begins with a legitimate prescription. Over time, the body builds tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to get the same calming effects. When those effects start to fade, people may take more than prescribed, or take the medication more often. At this point, the line between medical use and misuse starts to blur.
Some common signs that a person may be developing a dependence or addiction include:
- Taking more medication than prescribed
- “Doctor shopping” to get multiple prescriptions
- Withdrawal symptoms when not taking the medication
- Using benzos to numb emotional pain or stress
- Difficulty functioning without the drug
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be physically and emotionally taxing, and in some cases, even dangerous without medical supervision. That’s why our benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Michigan begins with safe, medically supervised detox — a crucial first step toward recovery.
Why People Use and Misuse Benzodiazepines
People don’t choose addiction. They often turn to substances like benzodiazepines to cope with intense emotional or psychological distress. Whether it’s trauma, unresolved anxiety, or ongoing life pressures, benzos can offer temporary relief but at a cost.
Misuse can happen in several ways:
- Taking larger or more frequent doses than prescribed
- Mixing with alcohol or opioids to amplify effects
- Using benzos to come down from stimulant highs
- Relying on the drug for everyday functioning
Over time, what once seemed like a solution becomes the problem itself. Addiction can rob individuals of clarity, connection, and control, but healing is possible with the right support.
Different Types of Benzodiazepines
Understanding the various types of benzodiazepines can help clarify how these drugs impact the body and why they can become so habit-forming.
Short-acting benzos:
These are fast-acting and wear off quickly, which can make them more habit-forming.
- Xanax (alprazolam)
- Halcion (triazolam)
Intermediate-acting benzos:
These stay in the system a bit longer and are often used for anxiety or insomnia.
- Ativan (lorazepam)
- Restoril (temazepam)
Long-acting benzos:
These are usually prescribed for seizure control or alcohol withdrawal.
- Valium (diazepam)
- Klonopin (clonazepam)
Each type carries its own risk level, but all can lead to dependence, especially when used beyond recommended durations or dosages.
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal: What to Expect
Withdrawal from benzodiazepines is unlike withdrawal from many other substances. Because benzos affect brain chemistry so directly, the body can react strongly when they’re reduced or stopped. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Severe anxiety or panic
- Insomnia
- Muscle pain or stiffness
- Irritability
- Heart palpitations
- Seizures (in severe cases)
At Enlightened Recovery Michigan, we offer medically supervised detox to help clients taper off safely. This is the first and most critical step in benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Michigan. By managing withdrawal symptoms in a calm, controlled environment, we create a foundation for lasting recovery.
The Role of Dual Diagnosis in Benzo Addiction
Many individuals who struggle with benzodiazepine addiction also experience co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. This is where dual diagnosis treatment becomes essential. Treating addiction without addressing the underlying psychological issues can lead to relapse.
While Enlightened Recovery Michigan does not provide primary mental health treatment, we do offer comprehensive dual diagnosis services for those whose mental health issues are connected to their substance use. Our team uses evidence-based therapies to support both sides of the struggle.
How We Treat Benzodiazepine Addiction
Recovery isn’t just about stopping the drug. It’s about rebuilding a life. At our Michigan rehab center, we focus on more than just detox. Our residential programs are grounded in compassion, connection, and clinical excellence.
Evidence-Based Therapies We Use:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change harmful thought patterns that lead to drug use.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Builds emotional regulation and stress management skills.
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages living in alignment with personal values despite life’s challenges.
- Family Therapy: Heals relationships and builds a support system outside of treatment.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): Increases readiness for change and strengthens commitment to recovery.
- Solution-Focused Therapy: Shifts focus from problems to strengths and goals.
- Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT): Teaches rational thinking and emotional control.
Our clinicians work closely with each individual to develop a customized care plan that reflects their unique background, needs, and goals. We also incorporate Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) when appropriate to ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse.
Is It Time to Seek Help?
If you’re wondering whether you or a loved one needs help, consider this: Are benzodiazepines interfering with daily life? Do you feel anxious without them? Have you tried to stop and couldn’t?
These are clear signs that it’s time to consider benzodiazepine addiction treatment in Michigan. There is no shame in asking for help. Seeking support may be the bravest and most life-changing decision you ever make.
Why Choose Enlightened Recovery Michigan?
At Enlightened Recovery Michigan, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the addiction. Our team offers a judgment-free, healing-focused environment where individuals can break free from substance use and rediscover their sense of self.
We offer:
- 24/7 medically monitored detox
- Residential treatment with private and shared accommodations
- Holistic and evidence-based therapies
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Post-treatment support and relapse prevention planning
How to Prevent Benzodiazepine Addiction
While benzodiazepines can be helpful when used responsibly, it’s easy to slip into misuse without realizing it. Here are a few quick tips to stay on the safe side:
- Follow your prescription exactly — don’t adjust your dose without your doctor’s approval.
- Use short-term only — these medications are typically meant for brief relief, not long-term use.
- Avoid mixing with alcohol or other sedatives — this can lead to dangerous effects and faster dependence.
- Explore alternatives — ask your provider about therapy or non-addictive medications.
- Secure your meds — keep them in a safe place and monitor for misuse, especially in shared households.
Staying informed and connected with your healthcare team is key. If you are unsure about your medication, reach out for support before it becomes a bigger issue.
