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Summary
Wendy’s story of withdrawal from Ativan, Klonopin, and a Z-drug includes various attempts including the Ashton Manual and detox. A link to her video is included.
Details
Key Topics: Anxiety, Benzos, Dependence, Withdrawal, Ativan (lorazepam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Doctors, Symptoms, Detox, Yoga, Natural Healing, Massage, Rapid Detox
Listen on the Podcast: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/perpetual-motion-madness-excitability-symptoms-of-benzo-withdrawal-bfp023
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.
Wendy’s Story
Hello D,
A brief clip of my Benzo situation is on YouTube, “Benzos – A Cautionary Tale” (see video below). I tried the Ashton Manual to taper off quite a few years of a Z-drug for sleep, Ativan, and then Klonopin. By the 5th week on Dr. Ashton’s schedule, I couldn’t bear it anymore, and a local doctor sent me to detox.
…I couldn’t bear it anymore, and a local doctor sent me to detox.
I was there nine days, shaking and crying, given phenobarbital to prevent seizures. I mention about Rehab after that in the video. I’m very grateful I’ve had no pain during withdrawal, for maybe a couple of reasons.
I’ve had a yoga practice for about 30 years. And as a massage therapist specializing in craniosacral therapy, I’ve learned how to invite my body to move spontaneously in any position. Early on, when I explored this, I checked my pulse before and after the 15 minutes or so of this “unwinding,” and it went down by 12 beats per minute. I have a few physical symptoms — brief jelly legs, jitteriness, a feeling of wobbliness — but most are mental, the worst being agitation, anxiety, and repetitious thoughts.
I’ve had a yoga practice for about 30 years.
It’s clear that food sensitivities aggravate my withdrawal symptoms. I try to notice when my gut isn’t relaxed, and do belly breathing, hoping to enhance digestion.
I REALLY like your conversational style in the book! I’m an English major helping my 87-year-old partner write a book about his growing up in the rugged mountains of British Columbia.
Many thanks for what you do, and your manner of doing it. Wendy
Wendy’s Video
Benzos — A Cautionary Tale
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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.