Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs often prescribed to treat anxiety, panic disorders, insomnia, and muscle spasms. They work by increasing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate nerve activity.
When benzodiazepines are used for extended periods, they can lead to tolerance and dependence. If use continues, withdrawal symptoms may occur when the drug is reduced or stopped.
Recovery from benzodiazepine dependence can be complicated. This is especially true when mental health disorders are present at the same time.
Benzodiazepine Abuse and Addiction
Abuse and addiction to benzodiazepines have become a major public health concern. These medications are sometimes taken in higher doses, used without a prescription, or combined with other substances.
When benzodiazepines are used improperly, the risk of dependence increases. Over time, individuals may rely on the drug to cope with stress, anxiety, or emotional discomfort.
Benzodiazepine addiction can involve both physical and psychological dependence. Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to the drug. Psychological dependence develops when a person feels unable to function without it.
Signs of a Benzodiazepine Addiction
Signs of benzodiazepine addiction can differ from person to person. Some common signs include:
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Taking higher doses than prescribed
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Using benzodiazepines more frequently than intended
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Difficulty stopping or reducing use
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Continued use despite negative consequences
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Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using
If these behaviors are present, professional help may be needed to safely address dependence.
Co-Occurring Disorders and Benzodiazepine Addiction
Co-occurring disorders refer to the presence of both a substance use disorder and one or more mental health conditions. In benzodiazepine addiction, this often includes anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Mental health symptoms and substance use can influence each other. In some cases, benzodiazepines are initially used to manage mental health symptoms. Over time, dependence may develop.
Treating both conditions together is important. Addressing only one condition can increase the risk of relapse or continued symptoms.
Benzodiazepines and Co-Occurring Disorders in Recovery
Recovery is more effective when both benzodiazepine dependence and mental health disorders are treated at the same time. Integrated treatment allows healthcare providers to address the full scope of a person’s needs.
A comprehensive approach may include medical supervision, therapy, and ongoing mental health support. Treatment plans are individualized based on symptoms, history, and recovery goals.
Long-term recovery often requires continued monitoring and support. Addressing both addiction and mental health improves stability and overall quality of life.
Getting Help for Co-Occurring Conditions
If someone has both benzodiazepine dependence and a mental health disorder, professional treatment is strongly recommended. A dual-diagnosis approach helps ensure that both conditions are treated safely and effectively.
If someone hopes to achieve benzodiazepine addiction recovery, they need to ensure they receive care in a dual-diagnosis setting. Addressing both conditions at the same time is crucial for long-term recovery. At San Diego Detox, we offer carefully tailored, expert-guided treatment for co-occurring conditions. Reach out today to learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are benzodiazepines and how do they work?
Benzodiazepines — or “benzos” — are central-nervous-system depressant medications prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms, and related conditions. They work by amplifying the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, which slows brain activity and produces calming, anti-anxiety, and sedative effects.
Why do benzodiazepine addictions often involve co-occurring mental health disorders?
Because many mental health issues — like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or other psychiatric conditions — can lead individuals to use benzos for relief, benzodiazepine misuse or dependence and mental illness frequently occur together. Also, chronic benzodiazepine use can worsen existing psychiatric symptoms or contribute to new mental health problems, compounding the risk.
What are common signs that someone might have benzodiazepine dependence or addiction?
Signs may include needing higher doses to get the same effects (tolerance), obsessing over obtaining and using benzos, continued use despite negative consequences (health, work, relationships), secretive behaviors, withdrawal from social life or responsibilities, and physical/cognitive changes (memory problems, coordination issues, slurred speech, drowsiness).
What kinds of mental health disorders commonly co-occur with benzodiazepine use disorder?
Some of the most common co-occurring conditions include anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and sometimes psychotic disorders.
Why does treating both addiction and mental health together improve recovery outcomes?
A combined or “dual diagnosis” treatment approach ensures both the substance use disorder and the mental health condition are addressed simultaneously. That’s important because underlying mental health issues can fuel substance misuse (as self-medication), and substance misuse can intensify psychological symptoms — neglecting one can undermine progress on the other and increase risk of relapse.
