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Summary
A positive story of success from a woman in Louisiana who tapered from Ativan with the help of her husband and online support system.
Details
Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Dependence, Withdrawal, Ativan (lorazepam), Verced (midazolam), Surgery, Insomnia, Doctors, Menopause, Support team, Success, Benzo-free
Listen on the Podcast (Original Story): https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-loss-of-reality-perception-symptoms-of-benzo-withdrawal-bfp028
Listen on the Podcast (Update): https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/interminable-isolation-social-symptoms-in-benzo-withdrawal-bfp036
Content Warning
Stories presented on Easing Anxiety may contain triggering content. If this is a concern for you, please refrain from reading any further. These stories are provided for informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Opinions stated are those of the author only. See our disclaimer at the bottom of this post for more information.
Pamela’s Story
My benzo story began with a trip to a doctor.
I was 48 and experiencing insomnia, which I thought was due to menopause. He prescribed 1mg of Ativan, which I took at bedtime for the last 9 years, increasing to 2mg the last five of the nine. Only at bedtime.
…I felt as though I was experiencing what I now know to be tolerance.
I began seeing a new doctor, she immediately asked me if I thought this was still working. I explained that I didn’t know, but I felt as though I was experiencing what I now know to be tolerance. She advised I begin a taper, due to new information that long-term use could cause early onset dementia, or worse Alzheimer’s.
We started with a slow taper. I cut from 2mg to 1mg for several months, then to a half for several weeks, then nothing. I’m day 63 benzo free!!
…thank God for my precious husband, who has stayed up with me so many nights.
I have experienced tingling and numbness in my extremities and insomnia which has begun to get much better — I’m taking melatonin. Also, thank God for my precious husband, who has stayed up with me so many nights.
I also have experienced random phantom pains. Feelings of inner shaking as well. I’m devastated that I had no idea what this drug had done to me. I’m an avid runner and love exercise which has been a god send!!! Thank God for this new doctor and her wisdom.
But, I must thank you, D. I can’t tell you what your podcast has meant to me. I absolutely know that God knew I would need this information and your calming voice. I’ve listened to every podcast some multiple times, and I appreciate you so much. Had it not been for the Benzo Free podcast and blogs and information and your book, I would have been unprepared for what I was facing.
I’m 57 and benzo free!!!!
Please don’t stop giving us this life saving information. I’m forever grateful and humbled. I’m 57 and benzo free!!!!
Pamela
Update — August 2019
I wanted to share that yesterday I had a surgical procedure.
When the anesthesiologist came in, she began to tell me what would happen before the procedure. She told me I would be given Verced, which I asked was this a benzodiazepine? She said it was in the class and that is was strictly for pre-op only. I spoke with her briefly and shared my story with her. She calmly explained to me the importance of having this prior to my surgery.
When the anesthesiologist came in…she told me I would be given Verced…
I remembered what you said and what the doctor said on your show and Dr. Ashton, I knew this was a medical procedure and that this drug was specifically designed for it. I’m thankful for the knowledge I’ve gained and I’m listening now to episode 25 on our way back from the hospital.
I had a partial thyroidectomy, doing great, no pain meds just Tylenol🙏🏻
Pamela
Update — September 2019
I just wanted to check in with you to let you know I’m still doing well!!! Today is day 143 Benzo Free!!! I feel so much better!!!
I know this is a process, but today is a good day.
This whole journey has been so much more than I ever expected, there have been good days and not so good days. I am so grateful for every podcast, and appreciate your dedication to spreading the truth and knowledge of the dangers of these horrific drugs. I am sending a picture today so that you can see the face of recovery 🙂
I know it’s a process, but today is a good day 🌸
Pamela
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Disclaimer
All stories shared on Easing Anxiety are done so with the author’s permission. These stories are provided for informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. The views and opinions expressed within are those of the author only, and do not necessarily reflect those of Easing Anxiety or its founder. Stories presented on Easing Anxiety may contain triggering content for certain segments of the population. While provided as an informational resource to our community, some stories may not be beneficial to those who are sensitive to their content. Regarding benzodiazepine withdrawal or BIND, most people can withdraw safely, successfully, and without serious complications if they are informed and have a solid support system. Many of the stories shared on Easing Anxiety are extreme and should not be used to create any expectations of one’s individual experience. Please read the Ashton Manual formore information and work with your doctor. Withdrawal, tapering, or any other change in dosage of benzodiazepines, nonbenzodiazepines (Z-drugs), or any other prescription medication should only be done under the direct supervision of a licensed physician. View our complete disclaimer for more info.