Have a quick question about benzo withdrawal? About the symptoms? About the duration of recovery? About anxiety, insomnia, or anything else which is keeping you awake at night? Listen in on our conversation and you just might learn something. In today’s episode, we provide a rapid-fire style format where we explore some common questions about benzos, withdrawal, and other related issues. We also have a story from the United Kingdom, explore our barriers to emotion, and touch on one of the more sensitive topics in withdrawal, suicide. Video ID: BFP034 Listen to the Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 12:02 Benzo Story 15:51 Feature 43:42 Moment of Peace Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTRODUCTION Easing Anxiety Suicide Prevention Resources — https://easinganxiety.com/resources Itzkoff, David. Robin. New York: Macmillan Audio, 2018.https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BB62KSZ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_jqWBDb9P1DN1W. FEATURE: Quick Questions About Anxiety, Insomnia, Benzos, and Withdrawal Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual.. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, Colorado: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://easinganxiety.com/book. IMS Health. Vector One: National (VONA) and Total Patient Tracker (TPT) Database (2013). Extracted April 2014. Quoted in CCHR International. “Total Number of People Taking Psychiatric Drugs in the United States.” Accessed April 3, 2018. https://www.cchrint.org/psychiatric-drugs/people-taking-psychiatric-drugs/. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). “Definition of Tolerance.” The Neurobiology of Drug Addiction. Updated January 2007. Accessed August 6, 2017. https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/teaching-packets/neurobiology-drug-addiction/section-iii-action-heroin-morphine/6-definition-tolerance. Sommers, Jack, “Masculinity Audit into Causes of Suicide Reveals Men Suffer Depression in a Way Even Doctors Could Miss,” Huffington Post UK, November 17, 2016, accessed April 26, 2018, https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/mens-mental-health-building-modern-men_uk_58206805e4b0c2e24ab022fb. The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITS Music provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Is it safe to drive while taking benzodiazepines? Is it legal? Can benzos impair one’s ability to drive a motor vehicle? If so, which type of benzo has the greatest effect? We will provide some research, stories, and a few answers. In today’s episode, we look at driving and benzodiazepine use. We also hear a benzo story of success, talk about benzo belly and stomach distension, learn about a few upcoming events, and close out with our moment of peace. I hope you will join us. Video ID: BFP079 Listen to the Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:00 Introduction 04:45 Benzo News 06:47 Mailbag 11:32 Benzo Story 17:55 FEATURE: Driving and Benzos 32:54 Moment of Peace Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO NEWS Dr. Paul Christo Interviews w/ Carrie Silvernail and Dr. Steven Wright Part 1— https://paulchristomd.com/benzodiazepine-withdrawal-syndrome-part-i Part 2 – https://paulchristomd.com/benzodiazepine-withdrawal-syndrome-part-ii “Medicating Normal” Screening and Panel (April 27th) — https://medicatingnormal.com/ MAILBAG Benzo Free Podcast: Episode 11 (Benzo Belly) — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzo-belly-our-gut-in-withdrawal-bfp011 FEATURE: Driving and Benzos “5 Reasons Driving on Benzos is Just a Bad Idea.” American Addiction Centers. March 2, 2021. https://drugabuse.com/blog/5-reasons-driving-on-benzos-is-just-a-bad-idea/. Angst, Maggie. “Former San Jose council candidate pleads no contest in crash that killed a 66-year-old pedestrian.” Mercury News. April 21, 2021. https://www.mercurynews.com/2021/04/21/former-san-jose-council-candidate-pleads-in-crash-that-killed-a-66-year-old-man. Barbone F, McMahon AD, Davey PG, Morris AD, Reid IC, McDevitt DG, MacDonald TM. “Association of road-traffic accidents with benzodiazepine use.” Lancet. 1998 Oct 24;352(9137):1331-6. doi: 10.1016/s0140-6736(98)04087-2. PMID: 9802269. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9802269/. Dassanayake T, Michie P, Carter G, Jones A. “Effects of benzodiazepines, antidepressants and opioids on driving: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological and experimental evidence.” Drug Saf. 2011 Feb 1;34(2):125-56. doi: 10.2165/11539050-000000000-00000. PMID: 21247221. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21247221/. Smink BE, Egberts AC, Lusthof KJ, Uges DR, de Gier JJ. “The relationship between benzodiazepine use and traffic accidents: A systematic literature review.” CNS Drugs. 2010 Aug;24(8):639-53. doi: 10.2165/11533170-000000000-00000. PMID: 20658797. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20658797/. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, Colorado: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://easinganxiety.com/book. Hamzelou, Jessica. “Benzodiazepine prescriptions reach ‘disturbing’ levels in the US.” New Scientist. January 17, 2020. https://www.newscientist.com/article/2230379-benzodiazepine-prescriptions-reach-disturbing-levels-in-the-us. Verster, J., Volkerts, E. & Verbaten, M. Effects of Alprazolam on Driving Ability, Memory Functioning and Psychomotor Performance: A Randomized, Placebo-controlled Study. Neuropsychopharmacol 27, 260–269 (2002). https://doi.org/10.1016/S0893-133X(02)00310-X. The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/@benzofree DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITS Music provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

A recent article in Forbes Health discusses medication classes commonly prescribed for anxiety. As with so many articles on benzodiazepines and antidepressants, this one includes some valuable information — but it also falls far short when it comes to dependence and withdrawal. In the May 18th Forbes Health article, "Anxiety Medication: Types and Side Effects," contributing author Becca Stanek explores four classes of psychiatric medication. These are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and benzodiazepines. While the author does present the information on these medication classes in an organized and easily accessible format, repeated errors and shallow research may leave readers with inaccurate conclusions. Withdrawal Complications The primary concern that I have with this article is the same issue I have with most articles on benzodiazepines — the lack of accurate information regarding dependence and withdrawal. And that goes for the antidepressants listed here too. While my background is primarily focused on benzodiazepines and their long-term effects, the absence of caution regarding antidepressants is also alarming, especially considering that they are listed as first-line treatments. But, for now, let's focus on benzos. "This category [benzodiazepines] of anxiety medications has a high potential for misuse and dependence, and is generally not recommended for people who have a history of substance use." — Becca Stanek, Forbes Health In the above quote from the article, the author's primary focus is on substance use disorder (SUD), or addiction. Unfortunately, while some individuals do suffer from SUD with benzodiazepines, the majority have taken the drugs as prescribed by a physician and are dealing with the complications of physical dependence and withdrawal — not SUD. Abuse is not a factor for these individuals. While the author does define tolerance in the following paragraph, there is no mention of withdrawal or any long-term consequences. What is missing in this article — and what most of us in the benzodiazepine community would dearly like to see — is an effective warning about dependence and withdrawal. Something to inform individuals before they start taking a benzodiazepine, so they know the possible consequences of this drug. Here's a sample of what I would like to see in these articles. Perhaps one of the authors might include it one day: Benzodiazepines are not recommended for longer than 2-4 weeks of continuous use. Physical dependence is common, and withdrawal can be severe. Some individuals experience a protracted state known as benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) which can last for months, even years after discontinuation. If you choose to withdraw from benzodiazepines, please consult with a licensed physician. Abrupt cessation can be very dangerous, even fatal in some cases. A slow taper under doctor's supervision is the most frequently recommended method. Summary It is clear when reading this article — and many others like it — that the author was not very knowledgeable of the subject and didn't spend much time researching and crafting her message. I understand the pressure to produce content at lightening-speed for these publication houses, but that mindset also leads to poorly worded articles causing misleading interpretations. I hope that with time, we can help educate journalists and improve the messages that they provide. Disclaimer This post is for informational purposes only, and should never be considered medical or professional advice of any kind. Information provided here should never be substituted for medical advice. Do not disregard or delay in seeking medical advice. Do not change the dosage of any prescription medication without consulting with a licensed physician. Visit our disclaimer page for more info. References Basics of BIND. Easing Anxiety. September 30, 2021. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/basics-of-bind. FDA requiring Boxed Warning updated to improve safe use of benzodiazepine drug class. U.S Food & Drug Administration. September 23, 2020. Accessed May 19, 2023. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-requiring-boxed-warning-updated-improve-safe-use-benzodiazepine-drug-class. Stanek, Becca. Anxiety Medication: Types and Side Effects. Forbes Health. May 18, 2023. Accessed May 19, 2023. https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/anxiety-medication/.

I have to confess something right here from the start. I've let myself go. It's so easy to talk the good talk on a blog or podcast. But, to also put those suggestions into practice and maintain them for years — that is where I have fallen short. The past few years of my life have been extreme, and during that time I lost focus of what got me through my recovery from anxiety medication (benzodiazepines). I was so focused on caring for my parents in another state, that I neglected my own health an self-care. And, I paid the price for it. I keep hearing the age-old cliché in my head, "dance with the one that brought ya." I got busy and started feeling better and let my anxiety tools and healthy habits slip away. My recent wave of benzo withdrawal (BIND) symptoms was a slap in the face — and I needed it. So, I'm returning to the basics. I'm improving my diet, getting more exercise, and re-focusing on yoga and meditation. In fact, I just subscribed to a meditation app for the very first time. There was a discount for a year membership and I went for it. And so far, I'm grateful that I did. I had no idea how much content some of these apps have. I even found a series specifically for my ADHD. And all of that got me thinking that this could be a good blog post. So, here I am. I researched a few of the top therapy and meditation apps available and listed six of them below. All of the apps in this list are available on both iOS and Android. Maybe you can find one that will help you. I hope it helps. ANXIETY APPS Better Help (Therapy) Services: Counseling (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) / stress, grief & anger management / self-esteem / mental health Pricing: Costs range from $60 - $150 / week Website: www.betterhelp.com Review: Google Rating 4.6 2023 Best Meditation App (NYT Wirecutter) Best Anxiety App for Therapy (verywellmind.com) For many, online therapy options are the perfect fit. Founded in 2013, Better Help is the largest supplier of online therapy services with over four million subscribers. They provide 24/7 services from licensed therapists and other accredited professionals via a variety of communication options including phone call, video chat, live chat, or text message. They also offer group support via weekly online seminars and online journaling. If you've thought about getting some therapy support for your anxiety but haven't had the time to find a local counselor, this might be a good alternative. Calm (Meditation/Sleep) Services: Meditation / sleep / stress / body & movement / classes / music & nature / well-being monitor Pricing: Monthly $14.99 / Annual $69.99 / 7-day free trial Website: www.calm.com Reviews: Google Rating 4.5 App of the Year 2017 (Apple) Google Play Editor's Choice 2018 Best Anxiety App Overall (verywellmind.com) Calm is usually at the top of lists for best meditation apps, alongside Headspace (see below). This is the app that I signed up for last week, and I must admit I'm quite impressed so far. Over 100 million people have Calm on their smartphone, so I would guess they are doing something right. In an article in The Atlantic on Calm, the author said there is evidence to back the success of meditation apps stating, "Meditation apps really do undercut the stresses of modern life. Studies also show that app-based meditation seems to have many of the same effects as in-person meditation." Headspace (Meditation/Sleep) Services: Meditation / sleep / stress / articles Pricing: Monthly $12.99 / Annual $69.99 / 14-day free trial (on annual plan) Website: www.headspace.com Reviews: Google Rating 4.6 / Best Anxiety App for Adults (verywellmind.com) Headspace is the primary competitor to Calm in the meditation app category and has millions of users in more than 190 countries. According to Headspace, an Oxford study found that "eight weeks of using the [Headspace] app (for 10-20 minute sessions) resulted in a 31% decrease in symptoms of anxiety and a 46% decrease in depression symptoms." Whether you choose Calm, Headspace, or a different app, there is growing evidence that this technological intervention appears to have benefits for those of us struggling with anxiety. Healthy Minds Program App (Meditation/Sleep) Services: Meditation / sleep / courses (podcast-style) / well-being monitor Pricing: FREE Website: www.hminnovations.org/meditation-app Review: Top 3 Meditation Apps in 2023 (New York Times Wirecutter) Healthyminds innovations provides this app — completely free. Perfect for beginners to mediation who want to "give it a go." According to the New York Times, Healthy Minds Programs is "unburdened by bells and whistles [and] it offers a well-structured, clear sequence of courses. It’s a great option for anyone who wants to see if meditation is right for them." Tide (Meditation/Sleep) Services: Sleep / Meditation / Nature / Quotes Pricing: Monthly $11.99 / Annual $59.99 / Free Version Available Website: www.tide.fm Review: Apple Store Rating 4.8 / Apple Store Best of 2017 The Tide App focuses on four key essentials: sleep, meditation, relaxation, and focus. Tide, at its core, is physical and mental care inspired by traveling, nature, and meditation. It's about getting away from the stressors for life. Tide excels at helping individuals with insomnia by offering sleep analysis, light wake-up alarms, nap modes, and calming nature sounds. Basic meditations are available in a free version. Breathwrk (Meditation/Breathing) Services: Sleep / Meditation / Nature / Quotes Pricing: Monthly $7.99-$11.99 / Annual $59.99-$76.99 / Free version available Website: www.breathwrk.com Review: Google Rating 4.5 Breathwrk is Apple's #1 breathing app. It's key focus is on breathing exercise programs that promote calm, relaxation, and even pain management. Each program is designed to help specific health issues such as anxiety, cardiovascular health, pain, and insomnia. The app isn't just focused on relaxation, but also has energizing exercises to improve performance. According to Breathwrk's description, studies show that "slow, voluntarily regulated breathing practices are non-invasive, easy to learn, and generally safe for treating patients with symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, depression, stress- and trauma-related disorders, ADHD, schizophrenia, and substance abuse." Disclaimer This post is for informational purposes only, and should never be considered medical or professional advice of any kind. The resources listed here are provided as a courtesy only. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. EA receives no compensation for listing any resource on this site. Please make sure you read the privacy guidelines before you sign up for any online service. Some sites are not HIPAA-compliant and may share private information with third parties. Visit our disclaimer page for more info. References Best Apps for Anxiety. verywellmind. Accessed May 17, 2023. https://www.verywellmind.com/best-apps-for-anxiety-3575736. BetterHelp Online Therapy: A 2023 Review. Healthline. Accessed May 17, 2023. https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/betterhelp-review. Blackwell, Caira. The Best Meditation Apps. New Yok Times: Wirecutter. Updated January 18, 2023. Accessed May 17, 2023. https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-meditation-apps/. Lowrey, Annie. The App That Monetized Doing Nothing. The Atlantic. June 4, 2021. Accessed May 17, 2023. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2021/06/do-meditation-apps-work/619046/. Patricia L. Gerbarg MD, Richard P. Brown MD. Neurobiology and neurophysiology of breath practices in psychiatric care. Psychiatric Times. 2016;33(11). https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/neurobiology-and-neurophysiology-breath-practices-psychiatric-care.

A recent article in Pharmacy Times highlights the concern of benzodiazepine use in medical settings, especially with older adults. In a May 11 article by Richard P. Dutton, MD, the author states that "minimizing unnecessary benzodiazepine use has become an important principle for patients and anesthesiologists hoping to have the clearest, quickest emergence from anesthesia, with the lowest risk for delirium or any other cognitive dysfunction." Alternatives for treating anxiety related to medical procedures are available, "including clear prep instructions and good communication." Mark D. Neuman, MD, MSc, at the University of Pennsylvania leads a collaboration focused on reducing unnecessary use of preoperative midazolam in patients 65 years of age or older scheduled for anesthesia. "The DROP-Benzo trial (De-adopting Routine Preoperative Benzodiazepines for Older Surgical Patients) consists of a year-long sequence of educational efforts followed by block-randomized deployment of 2 behavioral nudges designed to increase mindfulness about the risks and benefits of benzodiazepine administration." Minimizing unnecessary benzodiazepine use has become an important principle... — Richard P. Dutton, MD One of the interventions utilized is a 20-page, easy-to-read guide to anesthesia care: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/728110703/6/. This guide was developed by US Anesthesia Partners (USAP) and is routinely distributed to its providers and patients. Read the full article here: https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/deprescribing-benzodiazepines-in-older-adults-an-anesthesiology-quality-initiative References Dutton, Richard P. "Deprescribing Benzodiazepines in Older Adults: An Anesthesiology Quality Initiative." Pharmacy Times. May 11, 2023. Accessed May 12, 2023. https://www.pharmacytimes.com/view/deprescribing-benzodiazepines-in-older-adults-an-anesthesiology-quality-initiative. "Preparing for Your Procedure." Digital Flipbook. US Anesthesia Partners. Accessed May 12, 2023. https://online.flippingbook.com/view/728110703/.

One of the promises I often make on the podcast is that "I will keep this brief." If you've listened to the podcast for any length of time, you probably know that I often struggle to deliver on that promise. Well, this time I am going to hold true to it. So, here it goes... I'm back from vacation. It was good. Podcast episode coming this week. Excited to get back to work. Hope you are well. Talk soon. There... how was that? Take it easy, D :)

When was the last time you took a vacation? Have you ever postponed, or cancelled a vacation? Have you done this repeatedly? We all need to take some time away. This is essential for everyone — and even more so for those of us dealing with anxiety, benzo withdrawal (BIND), and other psychological and neurological issues. In an article from Forbes magazine titled "Why Taking Vacation Time Could Save your Life," the author refers to a study that found 26% of respondents had never taken two weeks of vacation at one time. In a separate article, a World Health Organization (WHO) study found that working 55 hours or more a week was associated with a 35% higher risk of stroke and a 17% higher risk of dying from heart disease than a workweek of 35 to 40 hours. And on top of that, many who do take vacations often take work with them and rarely, truly relax. One of the benefits of vacation time is that it increases mindfulness. It also can help you catch up on sleep, develop new perspectives, relieve stress, and increase productivity. Metabolically speaking, vacation time helps to reduce high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Vacation and Benzos Some of you may be asking, but what does that have to do with me? How can I take a vacation during benzo withdrawal and BIND? A vacation doesn't have to be two weeks long. It can be a weekend, a day, even a few hours. Dealing with withdrawal and BIND is a form of work, hard work, intense work much of the time. And we need a break from that work. Doing this isn't always easy, but there are ways. Here are a few ideas that might help: Utilize Your Windows — When you get a window from you symptoms, make use of it. Try and get your mind off your condition. Get out into nature and get away from your home if you can. Make use of this time to reset your mindset. It's so easy to ruminate on the state of your life, but that helps no one. Break away from the pattern, if even just for a couple of hours. Try Some Mindfulness and Meditation — Meditation and mindfulness are very valuable tools in BIND. Even if you can't get out of the house, or escape your symptoms, you can encourage your mind to take a break — without having to go anywhere. Here are some meditation ideas from our site. Change Your Environment — It is common for us to attribute our home with suffering during withdrawal and BIND. This is where many of us spend our time — so our house, apartment, office, whatever, can be linked to negative emotions and imagery. When you can, get away. See new things. Explore new areas. Give your mind and your emotions something else to work on, at least for a little while. Give Your Caregiver a Break — Encourage your caregiver to take a break too. This is critical. Benzo caregivers are often overworked, stressed, and need a break just as much as we do, if not more. Encourage them to take a break away from you, when they can. My Time to Get Away And that brings me to... well, me. I'm leaving tomorrow morning to the great states of Ohio and Pennsylvania. My wife has family in that area and I've never really toured either state, so it's about time. Yes, this is a road trip. Not a surprise to many of you who know me. And guess what, I'm not recording any of it for the podcast. That is a surprise to many of you. That's right, this is a vacation and it's going to stay that way. The truth is, I've reached my limit. I do that sometimes. Then again, don't we all? And I need to take some time away to allow myself to rest, heal, and maybe even process a few emotions and some grief that I've been avoiding for some time now. This is a cycle for me, and I know when it's time to take a break. I wish you all well and hope that you can also find some time to escape in the coming weeks. I'll be back around the second week of May and look forward to catching up with you then. Take care my friends, D :) References Castrillon, Caroline. "Why Taking Vacation Time Could Save Your Life." Forbes. May 23, 2021. https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolinecastrillon/2021/05/23/why-taking-vacation-time-could-save-your-life. Foster, D E. "10 Tips for the Benzo Caregiver." Easing Anxiety. April 5, 2019. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/10-tips-for-the-benzo-caregiver. "Long working hours killing 745,000 people a year, study finds." BBC News. May 17, 2021. https://www.bbc.com/news/business-57139434. Easing Anxiety is for informational purposes only, and should never be considered medical advice. Please visit our disclaimer for more information.

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Final) / Presentation Cancellation, Vacation Reschedule, Benzo Community Activity, Social Media Effects, and Rollin’ with the Changes Video ID: BFP121 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:00 Which Day Is It? 00:19 Presentation / Vacation 04:59 What to Talk About? 05:48 Benzo Community Activity 06:15 Social Media Effects 08:30 Promoting Others’ Sites 10:12 Rollin’ with the Changes 12:23 Closing Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx and Illicit Drug Summit Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 5-6) / 1st Day of Rx Summit, Small Victories, Managing Benzo Limitations, BIND, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Urinary Difficulties, Fear of Heights, and Finding Ways to Do Things Video ID: BFP120 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Days 5-6 00:28 Day 5 Recap 01:31 First Day of Conference 04:15 Benzo Morning Obsessions 06:50 Small Victories 07:13 Managing Limitations 07:47 Pelvic Floor Dysfunction 10:45 Managing PFD 14:57 Symptom Management 15:50 Fear of Heights 17:40 Finding Ways to Do Things 19:06 Thought Train Derailment 2 20:30 Closing Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx and Illicit Drug Summit Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 4) / Nashville, TN to Alpharetta, GA / Driving and Flying Working Around Limitations, Emotions and Social Media, Setting Boundaries Video ID: BFP119 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Georgia 02:16 Managing My Symptoms 1 02:46 Hotel Room Tour 04:51 Driving in the Rai 05:42 Managing My Symptoms 2 06:24 Driving and Flying 07:47 Work Around Limitations 08:48 Emotions and Social Media 11:59 Setting Boundaries 12:52 Train of Thought Derailment 13:20 Back to Boundaries 14:53 Care for Our Caregivers 15:37 Closing Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx and Illicit Drug Summit Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 3) / Branson, MO to Nashville, TN / Back Home in Missouri, People with Crosses on the Roadside, Getting Out There and Doing Things Video ID: BFP118 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Opryland 01:11 Back Home in Missouri 03:27 Roadside Crosses: Preface 07:29 Roadside Crosses: Interview 09:24 Roadside Crosses: Follow Up 12:54 Getting Out There and Doing Things 14:31 Closing Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx and Illicit Drug Summit Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 2) / Salina, KS to Branson, MO / Benzos and indecision, the loss of confidence, life becoming small, and appreciation of the little things. Video ID: BFP117 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Branson 01:24 Drive Status 01:58 Confidence, Indecision, and Benzos 07:10 Life Becoming Small 09:06 Appreciating the Little Things 11:50 What’s Next? 12:55 Thanks for Joining Me 13:08 Finding Beauty in Everything 14:13 Closing Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx and Illicit Drug Summit Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= The Podcast The Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com MAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMER All content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. PRODUCTION Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved