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I was recently reminded of the statement: "there is no way out of this but through it." So what are day-to-day, moment-by-moment strategies to get through it?
I have been asked what I did to help with the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal and its after-effects. Here are some ideas that not only helped me feel calmer and deal with symptoms, but also helped me feel as if I was doing something productive.
I have also asked others in the on-line Benzo Warrior Community what they do. Here is a compilation of ideas to consider. Remember that while some may not be possible right now they may work in a few months.
When I just wanted to calm my inner world or deal with cognitive fog
Taking warm baths in low lights
Listening to the sounds of chimes, rainfall, or the ocean on apps
Coloring in adult coloring books with markers or colored pencils
Listening to audiobooks and podcasts, being careful to avoid topics that can provoke anxiety
Sitting outside and feeling the sun or the breeze
Taking walks, even if just to walk around the yard
Binging on TV shows
Petting or cuddling with a dog or cat
When I was able to do something more active
Using a loom to knit scarves that I gave to homeless people
Crocheting dish clothes for clothes, prayer shawls, or gloves for others
Baking and giving goods to neighbors (even starting with slice-and-bake cookies)
Tending to a garden
Playing word searches or solitaire on apps
Doing puzzles, sudoku
Collage making and scrapbooking
Journaling
Reading mostly fiction, romantic or historical often most helpful
Daily snippets of Spanish (insert language here) lessons
When I was ready to interact more with others
Joining support group sessions
During political campaigns, writing postcards to encourage people to vote and participating in campaign activities (all on-line)
Taking classes on Zoom
Being a healing buddy
Volunteering on-line
Do any of these ideas seem helpful? As always, we’d like to hear your feedback.
For Informational Purposes Only
All information presented on Easing Anxiety is for informational purposes only, and should never be considered medical or health advice. Withdrawal, tapering, or any change in dosage of benzodiazepines or any other prescription drugs should only be done under the direct supervision of a licensed physician.
This article was written by a living, breathing, human person.
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