Do you find it hard to talk with your physician or psychiatrist about benzos? How about with your counselor or family and friends? This is a far too common problem in the benzo community, and we’re here to help. In today’s episode, we share seven tips for talking about benzos with the people in your life. We also share a benzo story from New Mexico, discuss a comment about finding peace-of-mind, and talk about the willingness to make mistakes during our withdrawal. Video ID: BFP058 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 12:50 Mailbag 15:44 Benzo Story 22:17 FEATURE: Talking About Benzos 51:39 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. The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org Tools for Patients Page — https://benzoreform.org/tools-for-patients Speaking with Your Medical Provider — https://benzoreform.org/for-patients/#benzowise Prescriber Information Pamphlet (PIP) Communication Study Guide — https://benzoreform.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/PIP-Communication-Guide-Summary-V1.pdf “How to Generate Productive Conversations with your Prescriber” by Dr. Janye L. Violette — https://benzoreform.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/PIP-Communication-Guide-V1.pdf Prescriber Information Pamphlet — https://benzoreform.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/PIP-Communication-Guide-Summary-V1.pdf Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com Find a Benzodiazepine Doctor Page w/ Directory — https://www.benzoinfo.com/doctors Fact Sheet on Benzodiazepines — https://www.benzoinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/BIC-Fact-Sheet-Media-Kit.pdf “10 Tips to Help Patients Through Benzodiazepine Withdrawal” by Dr. Christy Huff — https://www.benzoinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/10-Tips-to-Help-Patients-Through-Benzodiazepine-Withdrawal.pdf “How to Find a Doctor and More: 10 Tips to Quit Benzos” by JC Curle — https://www.benzoinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/How-to-find-a-doctor.pdf Withdrawing Prescribed Benzodiazepine Patients (Pamphlet for physicians) — https://www.benzoinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Withdrawing-Prescribed-Patients-Brochure.pdf It’s Time to Talk About Benzodiazepines (Pamphlet, general) — https://www.benzoinfo.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/ItTime-to-Talk-About-Benzodiazepines.pdf Benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, and Opioids — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/OPIOIDS-AND-THE-CURRENT-BENZODIAZEPINE-CRISIS-HANDOUT-1.pdf Professional’s Guide for As-Prescribed BZD Dependence — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/BZPROGUIDE-1.pdf For Therapists & Counselors Treating Clients with Benzodiazepine Withdrawal — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/FOR-THERAPISTS-HANDOUT-2.pdf Family, Friends & Caregivers: Providing Support for Someone in Benzodiazepine Withdrawal — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Dos-and-Donts.pdf Benzodiazepines and the Elderly — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ELDERLY-HANDOUT.pdf About BWS/PWS & Neuronal Damage — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/BWS_PWS_NEURONAL.pdf Historical Fact Sheet — http://w-bad.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/FACTSHEET.pdf The Ashton Manual — http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual New York City Health Information on Benzodiazepines — https://www1.nyc.gov/assets/doh/downloads/pdf/chi/chi-35-2.pdf Benzodiazepine Prescribing Guidelines for Pennsylvania — https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/Documents/Opioids/PA Guidelines on Benzo Prescribing.pdf “Yes, Benzos Are Bad for You” by Dr. Allen Frances — https://www.huffpost.com/entry/yes-benzos-are-bad-for-yo_b_10775014 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

How long will my recovery last? If I’ve taken these drugs periodically, can I be dependent? How do I convince my doctor? What is this condition of ours even called? These and several other common questions beg for answers. In today’s episode, we look inside our mailbag and discuss a variety of questions from the listeners. We also share a story from the United Kingdom and talk about maintaining healthy habits once we start to feel better. Video ID: BFP059 Listen on YouTube... The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 09:16 Benzo Story 19:40 Feature 52:30 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 — Leigh, Jennifer. “The Corona Virus (COVID-19) and Benzo Withdrawal.” Benzo Withdrawal Help. February 27, 2020. Accessed February 28, 2020. https://benzowithdrawalhelp.com/curing-fear/the-corona-virus-covid-19-and-benzo-withdrawal/. FEATURE: Questions, Comments, and a Few Answers… —Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. https://easinganxiety.com/ashton. — “Chronic Disease.” National Cancer Institute: NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. Accessed February 29, 2020. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/chronic-disease. — 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. —Guilleminault, Christian. “Benzodiazepines, breathing, and sleep.” The American Journal of Medicine. March 2, 1990. 88(3): S25-S28. doi:10.1016/0002-9343(90)90282-I. — Jehan, Shazia, Evan Auguste, Perumal Pandi, et al. “Depression, obstructive sleep apnea and psychosocial health.” Sleep Med Dis Int J. 2017;1(3):58-63. doi: 10.15406/smdij.2017.01.00012. — “Sleep Apnea.” National Sleep Foundation. Accessed February 26, 2020. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-apnea. — “Tips for Talking About Benzos with Doctors, Therapists, Family, and Friends (Episode #58).” The Benzo Free Podcast. February 25, 2020. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/tips-for-talking-about-benzos-to-doctors-therapists-and-family-bfp058 — “What you need to know about sleep apnea.” Medical News Today. Accessed February 26, 2020. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/178633. 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

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: BFP060 Listen on YouTube The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 11:25 Spotlight 18:06 Benzo Story 23:39 FEATURE: Benzo Belly 49:20 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. SPOTLIGHT (Original Music) THE ALBUM: “Get Well” by Come Back K! Streaming: Bandcamp (https://comebackk.bandcamp.com/album/get-well) / Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/album/5B4s2pHWDVIANjOfjRBT39?si=XNxEQGnXQXav9HF18jT8QQ ) / Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_ng7HTMQU6LwNKuiqUf4lxJ_PvMowxv8dw) For Purchase: Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084H1MRV7/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_L4cAEb0JY58DS0 FEATURE: Benzo Belly: Our Gut in Withdrawal (Take 2) Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. https://easinganxiety.com/ashton. “Everything you need to know about the vagus nerve.” Medical News Today. Accessed March 9, 2020. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/318128. 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. Salari, Pooneh, and Mohammad Abdollahi. “Systematic review of modulators of benzodiazepine receptors in irritable bowel syndrome: Is there hope?” World Journal of Gastroenterology. 2011 Oct 14. 17(38):4251-7. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v17.i38.4251. 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 YYOUTUBE: 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

Take a damaged nervous system from benzo dependence and withdrawal, mix in a worldwide viral outbreak, and you have the recipe for off-the-charts anxiety. Tune in as D chats off-script about benzos, anxiety, and a virus. In today’s episode, we dedicate the entire podcast to anxiety and the current situation with Covid-19. We also have our Moment of Peace and announce some changes taking effect for Benzo Free and the Podcast. Video ID: BFP061 Listen on YouTube The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher 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

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 is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 05:37 Spotlight 11:48 Benzo Story 26:55 FEATURE: 7 Little-Known Symptoms 52:34 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. SPOTLIGHT YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx VIDEO: “All About Easing Anxiety” — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c68i3lllo_0 VIDEO: “Relax in 5 Minutes at Crater Lake” — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLSQyNBMiRY 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

Learn 3 basic tools to help manage anxiety during COVID-19. Join D as he discusses the struggles so many are facing during the COVID-19 pandemic and presents some basic, reasonable solutions to help manage fear during these trying times. And stick around for our outtakes at the end to help ease your mind with a laugh or two. Video ID: EA003 Watch the Video Featured Links — VIDEO: “Some Good News (SGN)” with John Krasinski — https://youtu.be/F5pgG1M_h_U Site Links VISIT US ONLINE — WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK — COMMENT: On this video in YouTube — COMMENT: On this blog post — EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. 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://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Credits VIDEO / IMAGE CREDITS All video and still image content not produced in-house or identified above was provided by… — FreeImages — https://www.freeimages.com — Pexels — https://www.pexels.com — Pixabay — https://www.pixabay.com MUSIC CREDITS Music provided by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.audioblocks.com EA Theme Song — NAME: “Welcome Home” — PERFORMED BY: Neil Cross — COMPOSED BY: Peter Godfrey (original title “Young Love”) Produced by Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2020 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Anxiety and the Loss of Control During COVID-19. How do we manage the loss of control? During difficult times such as these, the loss of control in our lives often triggers fear, anger, and anxiety. Those of us who have dealt with chronic anxiety often use control to help avoid events that trigger us and when that sense of control fades, we are forced to face some of our fears head on. Learn about the power our need for control can have on our lives and how a simple technique can help us loosen its grip. Video ID: EA005 Watch the Video Site Links VISIT US ONLINE — WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK — COMMENT: On this video in YouTube — COMMENT: On this blog post — EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. 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://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Credits VIDEO / IMAGE CREDITS All video and still image content not produced in-house or identified above was provided by… — FreeImages — https://www.freeimages.com — Pexels — https://www.pexels.com — Pixabay — https://www.pixabay.com MUSIC CREDITS Music provided by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.audioblocks.com EA Theme Song — NAME: “Welcome Home” — PERFORMED BY: Neil Cross — COMPOSED BY: Peter Godfrey (original title “Young Love”) Produced by Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2020 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Do you have benzo questions? Well, we’re here to help. Whether they’re questions about benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, withdrawal symptoms, the podcast, updosing, polydrugging, and more — our rapid-fire Q&A will attempt to provide some answers. In today’s episode, we return to the popular rapid-fire Q&A format for our feature. We also hear two short benzo stories from England and Denmark, talk about some positive effects of the current pandemic, and close out with a traditional breathing meditation to ease you back into your day. Video ID: BFP063 Listen on YouTube The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 08:14 Benzo Stories 14:48 FEATURE: Rapid Fire Q&A 52:23 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. FEATURE – RECOMMENDED BOOKS “Renewal and Recovery” by Baylissa Frederick — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071K757GF/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_c6ILEbQQ1BBBM “Death Grip” by Matt Samet — https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008SB59MW/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_X6ILEbP89NFVN FEATURE – BENZO TASK FORCE REPORT “Benzodiazepine: Dependence, Toxicity, and Abuse” — https://www.appi.org/Products/Psychopharmacology/Benzodiazepine-Dependence-Toxicity-and-Abuse 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

What are the most common coping skills for anxiety? Which ones are helpful and which ones are not? Join D for a brief tour through anxiety management. Learn the pros and cons of each category and discover new methods for managing your daily stress and anxiety. Whether you suffer from periodic stress or chronic anxiety, this tutorial provides a solid foundation for your journey towards a new, more peaceful, you. Video ID: EA007 Watch the Video References — Ashton, C. Heather, “The Bridge Project, Bradford: Speech by Professor C Heather Ashton, DM FRCP: Annual Meeting, December 2011.” Benzo.org.uk. Accessed January 27, 2017. https://www.benzo.org.uk/chabradford.htm. — Bachhuber, Marcus A., Sean Hennessy, Chinazo O. Cunningham and Joanna L. Starrels. “Increasing Benzodiazepine Prescriptions and Overdose Mortality in the United States, 1996-2013.” American Journal of Public Health (AJPH) (April 2016). Accessed April 7, 2018. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2016.303061. — “Global General Anxiety Disorder Market Worth USD 3,775 Million and CAGR 2.4% by 2021,” Zion Market Research, November 18, 2016, Accessed November 19, 2016, http://www.medgadget.com/2016/11/global-general-anxiety-disorder-market-worth-usd-3775-million-and-cagr-2-4-by-2021.html. — Kierkegaard, Søren. The Concept of Anxiety: A Simple Psychologically Orienting Deliberation on the Dogmatic Issue of Hereditary Sin. Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1980. — Hoffmann, Stefan G., Anu Asnaani, Imke J. J. Vonk, Alice T. Sawyer, and Angela Fang. “The Efficacy of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: A Review of Meta-analyses.” Cogn Ther Res (2012) (36): 427-40. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-012-9476-1. — Stossel, Scott. My Age of Anxiety: Fear, Hope, Dread, and the Search for Peace of Mind. New York: Vintage Books, 2013. — U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA/DoD). PTSD: National Center for PTSD: Use of Benzodiazepines for PTSD in Veterans Affairs. Accessed June 21, 2017. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/treatment/overview/benzo-ptsd-va.asp. Site Links VISIT US ONLINE — WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK — COMMENT: On this video in YouTube — COMMENT: On this blog post — EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. 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://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Credits VIDEO / IMAGE CREDITS All video and still image content not produced in-house or identified above was provided by… — FreeImages — https://www.freeimages.com — Pexels — https://www.pexels.com — Pixabay — https://www.pixabay.com MUSIC CREDITS Music provided by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.audioblocks.com EA Theme Song — NAME: “Welcome Home” — PERFORMED BY: Neil Cross — COMPOSED BY: Peter Godfrey (original title “Young Love”) Produced by Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2020 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Viral outbreaks, social phobias, benzo withdrawal — all these events can be isolating, and any combination can lead to extreme levels of fear, separation, and loneliness. Why do we suffer so when we are alone? And what can we do about it? In today’s episode, we look at isolation and loneliness in today’s chaotic times. We also shine our spotlight on a new benzo organization, discuss the dilemma of when to take your last dose, explore the effectiveness of rehabilitation centers, and hear a benzo story from Louisiana. Video ID: BFP064 Listen on YouTube The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 03:43 Spotlight 07:09 Mailbag 20:04 Benzo Story 30:30 FEATURE: Surviving Isolation 53:32 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. MAILBAG The Ashton Manual — https://benzo.org.uk/manual FEATURE “Cast Away.” DVD. Directed by Robert Zemeckis. Los Angeles: 20th Century Fox, 2000. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0162222/. Haney, Craig. “Restricting the Use of Solitary Confinement.” Annual Review of Criminology. 2018. 1:1, 285-310. Accessed April 29, 2020. https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-criminol-032317-092326. “Passengers.” DVD. Directed by Morten Tyldum. Los Angeles: Columbia Pictures, 2016. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1355644/. 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

What is anxiety? What causes it? What are its symptoms? How many people suffer? And why do some suffer more than others? Join D as he explores these core questions about the number one mental health problem in the world today — anxiety. Video ID: EA009 Watch the Video References — American Psychiatric Association (APA). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th ed. text rev. (DSM-IV-TR). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Association, 2000. — 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. — Global Burden of Disease Collaborative Network. Global Burden of Disease Study 2017 (GBD 2017) Results. Seattle, United States: Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME), 2018. http://ghdx.healthdata.org/gbd-results-tool — Leigh, Jennifer, “Five (5) Facts About Benzodiazepine Withdrawal (You Need to Know),” Additionblog.org, August 16, 2015, accessed March 6, 2017, http://prescription-drug.addictionblog.org/five-5-facts-about-benzodiazepine-withdrawal-you-need-to-know/. — Morgan, Charles A., Sheila Wang, Ann Rasmusson, Gary Hazlett, George Anderson and Dennis Charney. “Relationship Among Plasma Cortisol, Catecholamine, Neuropeptide Y, and Human Performance During Exposure to Uncontrollable Stress.” Abstract. Psychosomatic Medicine Vol. 63 Issue 3 (May-June 2001). 412-22. Accessed July 17, 2017. doi:10.1001/jamainternmed.2016.9225. https://journals.lww.com/psychosomaticmedicine/Abstract/2001/05000/Relationship_Among_Plasma_Cortisol.10.aspx. — “Nervous System Brain: Amygdala,” is a derivative of “Nervous System: Brain (5)” by Servier Medical Art, which is licensed under CC 3.0 Unported. — Our World in Data. https://www.ourworldindata.org. — Roy-Byrne PR and Wagner A: “Primary care perspectives on generalized anxiety disorder”. J Clin Psychiatry, 2004; 65(13):20–26. — Stossel, Scott. My Age of Anxiety: Fear, Hope, Dread, and the Search for Peace of Mind. New York: Vintage Books, 2013. Site Links VISIT US ONLINE — WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK — COMMENT: On this video in YouTube — COMMENT: On this blog post — EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. 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://easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Credits VIDEO / IMAGE CREDITS All video and still image content not produced in-house or identified above was provided by… — FreeImages — https://www.freeimages.com — Pexels — https://www.pexels.com — Pixabay — https://www.pixabay.com MUSIC CREDITS Music provided by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.audioblocks.com EA Theme Song — NAME: “Welcome Home” — PERFORMED BY: Neil Cross — COMPOSED BY: Peter Godfrey (original title “Young Love”) Produced by Easing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2020 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

What are the basics of benzo withdrawal? If you are new to the benzo community, you might want to know where to start. If you are a veteran, you might want a refresher. Either way, it never hurts to review the basics of something so important. In today’s episode, we look at 10 basics of benzos and withdrawal. We also share a correction on terminology, explore some lingering effects of COVID-19, and hear a story from California. Video ID: BFP065 Listen on YouTube The Benzo Free Podcast is also available on... Apple Podcasts / Audible / iHeart / PodBean / Spotify / Stitcher Chapters 00:57 Introduction 09:48 Spotlight 13:13 Mailbag 15:27 Benzo Story 22:23 FEATURE: Benzos 101 54:20 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. SPOTLIGHT BENZO FREE: The Ashton Manual — https://www.easinganxiety.com/ashton The Ashton Manual on benzo.org.uk — https://www.benzo.org.uk/manual/ FEATURE — Benzos 101 BENZO FREE: Resources Page — https://www.easinganxiety.com/resources BENZO FREE: Types of Benzos — https://easinganxiety.com/post/types-of-benzos Benzo Buddies Withdrawal Support Page — http://www.benzobuddies.org/benzodiazepine-withdrawal-methods/overview/ 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