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← Return to Protracted Benzo withdrawal
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Depression & Anxiety | Last Active: Feb 23, 2024 | Replies (329)
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My dad has been on valium for 20 years. I’m so worrie for him because of all the negative effects I read online. He tried to taper many times but failed. Is it ever possible to wean off valium without going to rehab? He says he needs the valium to continue to work and since he can’t take time off work he can not afford to quit valium. I’m very very worried for him and I wish he had quit earlier but he says in the earlier days ssris weren’t available so he got hooked on valium as an easily available anti anxiety pill. He refuses to go for therapy either so I’m a a loss. Pls give suggestions.
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Hello again, @littlecroissant
I just read your post about your dad's problem with Valium and the inability to get off of it. I can understand your concern. I have an elderly relative who has been addicted to benzos, including Valium, for most of her adult life and I know how difficult it was for her when she had to try to withdraw because doctors were no longer comfortable prescribing these meds for older adults.
I finally had to insist on an inpatient mental health stay (and even sign a court petition) because I was afraid of the consequences and she was not willing to see a psychologist or psychiatrist on her own behalf. It was a stressful time for me (as well as her), but more so for me. Our family had always accepted her mental health issues without insisting that she seek help. As I look back I see that we did this at her detriment as well as ours.
After the inpatient hospitalization she was put on two psychiatric meds as well as just a "smidgen" of Valium at bedtime and it has worked well for her. It takes a lot of courage for a family member to address this kind of problem, especially if you do not have support from others in your family. For me, it was worth it and while she still has days that are not the best I would say that she is 75 percent better than before.
I can only share my experience with you, you will have to decide what is best in your situation. Will you post again and let me know how you are doing?