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benzo free podcast
symptoms
14-part series on symptoms
In 2019, we kicked off a 14-part in-depth exploration of the symptoms of benzo withdrawal (BIND). These included anxiety, benzo belly, anger, cognitive and memory symptoms, excitability and restlessness, perception symptoms, hyper-sensitivities, insomnia, and much more. Below are these 15 episodes which includes an introduction episode to kick it all off.
Immune and Endocrine Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Do we get sick more often during benzo withdrawal? Do we get more infections? Do we suffer more hormonal imbalances? Does benzo use and withdrawal affect our immune and endocrine systems, and if so, what can we do about it? In today’s episode, we discuss benzos’ effects on these two essential systems. We also hear a story from New England, answer a question on adjuvant medication, and talk a bit about connections. Video ID: BFP043 Listen to the Podcast …on YouTube Chapters 00
Nov 5, 2019
Interminable Isolation: Social Symptoms in Benzo Withdrawal
Agoraphobia, androphobia, social phobia, glossophobia, philophobia…and on and on. Social anxiety disorders are numerous, and in benzo withdrawal, these burdens can escalate and become isolating. Learning tools to manage them can be essential. In today’s episode, we examine the social symptoms of benzo withdrawal. We also explore muscle spasms, investigate the emotional disconnect many experience around loved ones, hear some inspirational words about moving on, and share an up
Sep 18, 2019
Sights, Sounds, and Sensitivities: Nerve Sensations of Benzo Withdrawal
Hypersensitivity. In benzo withdrawal, we feel everything…more. Learn about the parade of nerve sensation symptoms such as itching, tingling, burning, paresthesia, numbness, and extreme sensitivities to light and sound among others. In today’s episode, we explore the nerve sensations of benzo withdrawal. We also learn a bit about upcoming episodes for Benzo Free and hear a comedy of errors story about one listener’s summer adventures. Video ID: BFP033 Listen to the Podcast Th
Aug 28, 2019
The Restless Pursuit of Rest: Insomnia in Benzo Withdrawal
Few things in life are more beneficial than a good night’s sleep. But for millions of people, especially those in benzo withdrawal, this is easier said than done. Learn some tips and tricks which may help you get the rest you so desperately need. In today’s episode, we’ll tackle the withdrawal symptoms of insomnia and nightmares. We’ll also answer a question on taper symptoms, discuss how long psychological symptoms may continue, and join D for a personal anniversary celebrat
Aug 21, 2019
Tight, Tense, and Twitching: Muscular Symptoms in Benzo Withdrawal
Without our muscles, we’re nothing. We can’t sit, stand, walk, eat, see, hear, or even breathe. Unfortunately, these same muscles can take a beating during benzo withdrawal. Learn what to expect and how to manage this parade of muscular mayhem. In today’s episode, we explore the muscular symptoms possible with benzo withdrawal including tightness, spasms, cramps, twitches, tics, pulls, sprains, tears, convulsions, and seizures. We also answer a question on green tea, learn ab
Jul 31, 2019
The Loss of Reality: Perception Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Our central nervous system not only provides sensations of pleasure and pain, but it also interprets our perception of reality. In benzo withdrawal, that sense of reality can be altered creating an inescapable fog of detachment and illusion. In today’s episode, we explore perceptual symptoms of benzo withdrawal including derealization, depersonalization, hallucinations, and perceptual distortions. We also answer a question on cognitive dysfunction and returning to the workpla
Jul 24, 2019
Cardiopulmonary Consternation: Heart and Lung Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
The heart and lungs embody the essence of human life. Benzo withdrawal can affect their normal functioning and create a cascade of symptoms such as heart palpitations, flushing, sweating, hot flashes, shortness of breath, and air hunger. In today’s episode, we explore benzo withdrawal symptoms of the heart and lungs. We also talk a bit about dealing with family, answer some questions on tapering plans and the vagus nerve, and share a benzo story from Ontario, Canada. Video ID
Jun 26, 2019
Perpetual Motion Madness: Excitability Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Akathisia is one of the most common symptoms of benzo withdrawal. It is often defined by the feeling of inner restlessness and the urgency to keep moving. It can be exhausting, overwhelming, and even debilitating for some — but it can be managed. In today’s episode, we examine excitability symptoms. We learn some of the causes, identify some of the signs, and even share a few tips on how to deal with this condition. We also have some feedback on our Facebook change, share a s
Jun 19, 2019
Unsteady, Unintelligible, and Unyielding: Head and Neck Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Dizziness. Migraines. Slurred Speech. Loss of Balance. These are just a few of the benzo withdrawal symptoms which affect the head and neck region of the human body. Learn more and pick up some tips on how to manage them. In today’s episode, we continue our series on benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms with the physical symptoms of the head and neck. We also hear a success story of detox from high dosages, answer a question about the classes of benzos, and catch up on the news
May 29, 2019
other symptom episodes
Since we concluded the 14-part series in 2019, we have produced several other episodes dedicated to the symptoms of benzo withdrawal (BIND) and we will continue to add to this collection in coming months. Some of these topics include benzo belly, anger, pelvic floor dysfunction, and collections dedicated to little known symptoms and common questions.

Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms: Questions, Confusion, Obsession
Is this pain part of benzo withdrawal? What about this ache? Or memory loss? Or Confusion? Or Restlessness? It seems incomprehensible that all these symptoms are related to benzo withdrawal. And yet, quite often, that is the reality we face. In today’s episode of the podcast, we look at our symptoms and investigate how to ease the constant worry about each and every one. We also hear a benzo story from Oklahoma, share a comment about fear and disbelief, and discuss our return
Dec 31, 2020
Benzo Brain: Cognitive Symptoms in Withdrawal
Benzo Brain. Fuzzy Brain. Cog Fog. Memory loss and cognitive dysfunction are common in benzo withdrawal and these symptoms can linger for a long time. Why does this happen? What do the studies say? And what steps can one take to improve things? In today’s episode, we dive into the confusing world of cognitive dysfunction. We also hear a story from Connecticut, share a comment about isolation, answer a question about single-use benzos for medical treatment, and chat a bit abou
Dec 1, 2020
Anger and Irritability in Benzo Withdrawal
Anger, frustration, and even rage can be common during benzo withdrawal. When events trigger us, we react. But what happens when we are unable to calm down? Learn seven tips to help you step away from anger during benzo withdrawal. In today’s episode, D explores anger and rage during benzo withdrawal. He also shares a benzo story from Georgia, talks about supplements and reinstatement, and reminds us of an upcoming annual event this July. Video ID: BFP067 Listen on YouTube...
Jun 13, 2020
7 Little-Known Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Benzo withdrawal can trigger a vast array of symptoms. Some of these are common and well-known, yet others like skin rashes, irritability, personality changes, and the loss of social skills can go by unidentified or even misdiagnosed. In today’s episode, we discuss seven little-known symptoms of withdrawal. We also hear a benzo story from South Carolina and introduce our new YouTube Channel dedicated to easing anxiety. Video ID: BFP062 Listen on YouTube The Benzo Free Podcast
Mar 31, 2020
Benzo Belly: Our Gut in Withdrawal (Take 2)
Our gut can take a direct hit in benzo withdrawal. Pain, aches, cramps, digestive issues, inflammation, distention, and more. Why does this happen and what can we do about it? It’s time to revisit these symptoms and see what we can learn. In today’s episode, we take a second look at the symptoms of the abdomen and digestive system. We also hear a benzo success story, talk about the long game of withdrawal, and hear some original music from one of our listeners. Video ID: BFP
Mar 10, 2020
The Pelvic Problem: Benzo Symptoms of the Pelvis and Lower Abdomen
Our gut takes a big hit in benzo withdrawal, but digestive difficulties are only part of it. Pelvic pain, cramps, aching, urinary difficulties, sexual dysfunction, and many other complications of the lower abdomen can be part of the overall picture. In today’s episode, we focus on symptoms of the lower abdomen and pelvis including pelvic floor dysfunction. We also explore the difficulties of poor reading comprehension, discuss a mother’s quest to help her son with violent ten
Dec 18, 2019
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