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

Benzo withdrawal is personal. It’s intimate. And most of all, it can be very isolating. Fear and loneliness are pervasive in withdrawal and we frequently crave understanding, compassion, and connection. But does it really have to be that way? In today’s episode, I share my thoughts and struggles with anxiety, symptoms, fear, and loneliness from a recent road trip to Kansas City. We also have a question about hypochondria, a story from California, and a brief discussion about

Robert J. Valuck, Ph.D., is a Professor in Clinical Pharmacy, Epidemiology, and Family Medicine at the University of Colorado (CU) and the Director of the Center for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention at CU. This is a conversation not to miss. In part 2 of our conversation, we explore benzodiazepine advocacy and the hurdles we face, the use of flumazenil for benzo detox, the mechanisms of benzodiazepines in the body, and so much more. We also share a story from Chris in Austr

Robert J. Valuck, Ph.D., is a Professor in Clinical Pharmacy, Epidemiology, and Family Medicine at the University of Colorado (CU) and the Director of the Center for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention at CU. This is a conversation not to miss. In Part 1 of our discussion, we compare the opioid and benzo crises, visit the age-old addiction vs. dependence debate, and explore the recent FDA warning on benzodiazepines among other topics. I also share a benzo story from San Franci

Jordan Peterson is a psychologist and author from the University of Toronto. While his political views have created much controversy in recent years, it’s his dependence and rapid detox from benzodiazepines that triggered today’s blog post. Several listeners to the podcast have alerted me to this topic and although stories in the news are not our typical focus, I felt this one needed some clarification. *** Caution: This post includes descriptions of extreme withdrawal method

Summary Keith’s story is that of an ongoing battle with insomnia, anger, and depersonalization/derealization, after taking Klonopin and Ambien. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Dependence, Withdrawal, Klonopin (clonazepam), Ambien (zolpidem), alcohol, anger, irritability, insomnia, cold turkey, depersonalization, derealization, dp/dr, abuse, addiction Listen on the Podcast: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-pelvic-problem-benzo-symptoms-of-the-pelvis-and-lower-abdome

It’s 2020, can you believe it? Another year has passed and a new one is just beginning. And this new year is going to be amazing! Sure, that may sound like wishful thinking, but what’s wrong with that? We ended the year at Benzo Free remembering to be grateful for the good things in life, and I think we should start the new year on a similar path. …this new year is going to be amazing! As most of you know, I have taken a short hiatus this past week so there will be no new epi

Summary The story of a man who rapid-tapered from Klonopin and other psych meds to find success on the other side. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Dependence, Withdrawal, Klonopin (clonazepam), propranolol, Cymbalta (duloxotine), Rapid Taper, Symptoms, Doctors Listen on the Podcast: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-pelvic-problem-benzo-symptoms-of-the-pelvis-and-lower-abdomen-bfp049 Content Warning Stories presented on Easing Anxiety may contain triggering content.

Summary A man working through his second taper from benzodiazepines with the support of online groups, his wife, and his dog. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Dependence, Withdrawal, Mogadon (nitrazepam), Valium (diazepam), Multiple Tapers, Exercise, Mindfulness Listen on the Podcast: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/symptoms-sensitivities-and-uplifting-stories-bfp046 Content Warning Stories presented on Easing Anxiety may contain triggering content. If this is a concer