Connect
← Return to Protracted Benzo withdrawal
Discussion
Comment receiving replies
Was prescribed Valium over 10 years ago and began tapering last year following the Ashton Method very closely. It had become apparent that any benefit I was receiving was being outweighed by side effects. I have just completed this process a few weeks ago.
I'm pleased to have done this but am worried by how "raw" everything still feels. My cognition is way better but I still feel very anxious. I know it will take many more months as my nervous system adjusts however I am feeling very scared. I see danger everywhere even when I know it doesn't exist. I am very scared to drive on the highway fearing accident or death. This is new to me.
I have heard that benzodiazepam withdrawal symptoms are exacerbated because the limbic system is affected. Is this the case? If so, do you know (1) if there is anything I can do about it and (2) how long it is likely to last?
Thankyou.
Replies to "Was prescribed Valium over 10 years ago and began tapering last year following the Ashton Method..."
Hi @basilfawlty and welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. So glad you were able to find us and connect. Tapering off of any benzo can be extremely difficult, just like @sears said. My heart goes out to you and everything you are experiencing.
You will notice that I moved your post to a discussion that has been going on for quite some time now about benzo withdrawal. I did this so you could connect with people like @field12, @yellowmoon, and @sears.
I see that you followed the Ashton method. Exactly how long did you taper and at what doses? Was you physician involved with this tapering?
Connect
There isn’t much you can to about it. Your doc may offer something to replace the Valium and then you’ll become dependent on that med. There is no help for benzo withdrawal. It could take years for you to feel even halfway normal. Thanks to all the doctors that kept us dependent on these crazy meds for so many years.