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

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

Have you read the Ashton Manual? Do you know what it is? Do you know who Prof. Ashton is? Well, if you or anyone you know is dependent on benzos, you should. In today’s feature, we focus on Professor C. Heather Ashton, her work with benzo withdrawal patients, and her life-saving manual. And we say a heartfelt thank you, for all she has done. We also touch on some news, discuss GABA receptors and the doctor dilemma, and share the first benzo story from one of our listeners. Vi

Many see benzo withdrawal as an epic, exhausting, never-ending battle — but what if it doesn’t have to be? In the final part of this three-part series, you’ll learn how to step back, get out of your own way, and let your body heal. Kindness — both to yourself and to those around you — is a hidden secret to recovery. Anger and resentment have never been a recipe for healing. And finding acceptance of your condition and compassion for all involved is the surest way to have peac

Are you in benzo withdrawal? Do you feel stuck? Hopeless? Do you wish you could be more positive? More active? In part two of this three-part series, you will learn tips for improving your physical and mental health. Maintaining a positive mindset during withdrawal may sound like a near impossibility — but it’s a goal worth fighting for. And keeping active — while a continuous struggle – can be equally as challenging but just as key to your sanity and success. Video ID: BFP00

Experts agree that reducing fear and anxiety is critical to success during benzo withdrawal. But how do you do that? In part one of this three-part series, I introduce five key areas of focus for creating a stable mindset during withdrawal. The first of these is taking responsibility. It’s your body and your recovery — you should be in charge. Learn how to work with your doctor as a partner and take control of your own health and healing. Video ID: BFP003 Watch the Video Thi