Intimacy is essential to a healthy, happy life. And yet, during benzo withdrawal it is often one of the earliest casualties. How can a loving relationship — let alone a healthy sex life — survive the trials of benzo dependence and withdrawal? In today’s episode, we explore how to nurture a loving relationship and avoid the pitfalls of anger, isolation, and hypersensitivity. We also hear a benzo story from Christchurch, New Zealand and catch up on last week’s news. Video ID: B

Summary An amazing story of success from a New Zealand woman who tapered successfully from Ativan (via a diazepam substitution) to find new feelings, new sensations, and a new outlook on life. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Dependence, Withdrawal, Ativan (lorazepam), Valium (diazepam), Alcohol, Doctors, Symptoms, Success, Positive outlook, Bipolar Disorder, Listen on the Podcast (Original Story): https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/relationships-intimacy-and-sex-in-benz

How do benzodiazepines work? What do they do in the body? Why do they initially calm us, but then stop working? And why are they so incredibly hard to stop? When we take a look at the neurotransmitters GABA and glutamate, we find a few answers. In today’s episode, we examine two key chemicals in the brain and discover a few insights into why withdrawal is so difficult for so many. We also answer a couple questions about support groups, spotlight two regional organizations, an

Summary A woman who suffers from fibromyalgia struggles with benzo withdrawal from Xanax after 30 years of use. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Xanax (alprazolam), Dependence, Withdrawal, Doctors, Symptoms, Detox, Rehabilitation, Rapid Withdrawal, Financial Struggle, ER Visit Listen on the Podcast: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-science-of-benzos-gaba-and-glutamate-bfp018 Content Warning Stories presented on Easing Anxiety may contain triggering content. If this

Summary A benzo story of withdrawal from Valium (diazepam) and the symptoms that accompany that experience. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Valium (diazepam), Dependence, Withdrawal, Symptoms, Depression, Isolation, Support Groups Listen on the Podcast: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-assault-on-our-senses-benzo-withdrawal-symptoms-of-the-eyes-ears-nose-and-mouth-bfp016 Content Warning Stories presented on Easing Anxiety may contain triggering content. If this is

Do you know much about the cognitive effects of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs? Perhaps you should. Memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, and intrusive memories are all possible symptoms of benzo use and withdrawal. In today’s episode, we talk about the damage benzodiazepines and Z-drugs can inflict on our mental capacity. We also hear a benzo story from England, answer a question about GABA receptors, and learn what it really feels like to heal. BTW, it feels good. Video ID: BFP0

Have you heard the term ‘sensory hypersensitivity,’ but don’t really know what it means? Perhaps you should ask someone in benzo withdrawal. Sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, and tastes can be common. Learn the causes and a few tips on how to cope. In today’s episode, we talk about the withdrawal symptoms of the eyes, ears, nose, and mouth. These include light and sound sensitivity, blurred vision, dry mouth, thrush, difficulty swallowing, and tinnitus among others. We a

Summary A benzo story of withdrawal from Klonopin via Valium substitution, a failed visit to a detox facility, and a long, drawn out recovery. Followed by an update with a comedy-of-errors tale of dentists, dogs, and anxiety. Details Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Klonopin (clonazepam), Dependence, Withdrawal, Doctors, Detox, Clinic, Cold Turkey (CT), Polydrug, Valium (diazepam), Update, Pets, Travel, Comedy of Errors, Dentist, Isolation Listen on the Podcast (Original Story):.

Most major medical associations, including the American Geriatric Society (AGS), caution against the prescribing of benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines in the elderly. And yet, this age group consumes these drugs at a higher rate than any other. The numbers are staggering. Over four million senior citizens in the U.S. alone were prescribed a benzodiazepine over the course of a single year. And 25% of all elderly who start taking a benzodiazepine — even if prescribed for sh