Anxiety and insomnia can both be highly debilitating and disrupt so much of your life. Getting help for either is essential to your overall well-being. Many times, a combination of psychotherapy and medication management can help you through the most brutal sleepless nights and bouts of overwhelming anxiety.
One of the most common prescriptions for treating these two disorders is Ativan (lorazepam). The great news is that Ativan works really well. The not-so-great news is that because Ativan is a benzodiazepine (benzo), it is highly addictive.
While Ativan and addiction don’t necessarily always go hand-in-hand, prolonged and improper use of the powerful sedative can lead to an addiction that is difficult to escape.
In this article, we’ll discuss the signs, causes, and risks of Ativan addiction, along with your treatment options.
Addiction Treatment in San Diego
Understanding Ativan and Addiction
Typically, because of its addictive nature, Ativan is prescribed for a short time – usually from a few days to a month or so. However, if you become addicted to this benzo, you will do whatever you can to get more.
Going from using the drug properly to having an Ativan addiction may be easier than you think. An Ativan addiction occurs when you become physically or psychologically dependent on it. This usually happens when you misuse it or after prolonged use, even if it was initially prescribed for a legitimate health concern.
So, what’s the difference between physical dependence and psychological dependence on Ativan?
Having a physical dependence means your body requires higher doses to achieve the desired effect. When you misuse benzos like Ativan, this is likely to happen and can result in uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if you discontinue use. Some of these symptoms include:
- headache
- nausea
- insomnia
If you have a psychological dependence on Ativan, you rely on the drudge to manage stress and anxiety. Despite negative consequences, you may continue taking it compulsively, often exacerbating any underlying mental health issues. And this creates a vicious cycle of addiction.
Signs and Symptoms You Have an Ativan Addiction
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Ativan addiction is crucial for timely intervention and support. There are several behavioral, physical, and emotional symptoms to watch out for. Some of these symptoms include:
- increased tolerance to the drug
- prioritizing obtaining and using Ativan above other responsibilities
- weight fluctuations
- poor hygiene
- unusual lethargy
- frequent drowsiness or dizziness
- mood swings
- irritability
- depressive episodes
- isolation
- strained relationships
Furthermore, withdrawal symptoms can emerge when you don’t get your hands on more of the powerful drug. On top of feeling nauseous and having headaches, you may experience increased anxiety and panic attacks.
That means you end up experiencing more of the very thing you were looking to alleviate. This is why Ativan and addiction is so dangerous – it’s incredibly difficult to overcome.
Causes and Risk Factors of Ativan Addiction
Nobody starts taking Ativan with the intention of becoming addicted. But it does happen. That’s why it’s essential to understand the risk factors. The most common causes of Ativan addiction include the following:
- Genetic Predisposition: If you have a family history of addiction, you may be more susceptible to becoming addicted to benzos like Ativan.
- Medical Misuse: It’s essential to take Ativan only as prescribed. When you take it for longer or at higher doses than prescribed, you’re setting yourself up for a dangerous addiction.
- Environmental Factors: If you are exposed to stressors, trauma, or substance abuse regularly, it can amplify your risk of developing an addiction.
- Method of Administration: Again, taking the drug as prescribed can limit your chance of becoming addicted. Choosing to crush and snort Ativan to achieve a rapid high is never recommended. This can increase your likelihood of addiction.
Ativan and Addiction: Understanding the Withdrawal Process
As mentioned above, withdrawal symptoms from Ativan can be highly uncomfortable and even dangerous. If you have developed a dependence on Ativan and stop taking it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms within hours to days, depending on your usage.
One of the most concerning aspects of Ativan withdrawal is the potential for severe symptoms. If you have used the drug for an extended period or taken high doses, you may be at risk of experiencing seizures and delirium, which can be very dangerous.
This risk underscores the importance of seeking professional help when attempting to quit taking Ativan.
Medical supervision can provide essential support, ensuring you are safely monitored during withdrawal and receive appropriate interventions if needed.
How long the withdrawal lasts varies among individuals. You may begin to feel better after a few days. Or you may experience withdrawal symptoms for weeks or even months. That’s why it is so incredibly important to have a solid support system in place, including medical professionals like our team of experts at BOLD Health.
Ativan Addiction Treatment Options
Kicking an addiction to Ativan is challenging. But it’s also true that it is 100% possible to do with the proper support and treatment. Effective treatment requires a multifaceted approach combining medical, psychological, and social support to address all aspects of dependency.
The first step in Ativan addiction treatment in San Diego is typically medically supervised detoxification. We will gradually taper you off Ativan to minimize your withdrawal symptoms. This process is essential for safely managing the physical aspects of addiction as it ensures you are safely monitored and provided with necessary medical interventions.
Following Ativan detox, a range of therapeutic options are available to aid in your recovery, including:
- Psychotherapy approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you identify and alter negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with addiction.
- Group therapy provides a sense of community and shared experience. It allows you to connect with others facing similar challenges. This peer support can be invaluable in fostering a sense of belonging and motivation throughout recovery.
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) include individual and group therapy in a more rigorous and structured treatment plan. They can be invaluable when treating an Ativan addiction.
- Holistic approaches like mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy can also help you during your recovery journey. They can help you develop coping strategies, manage stress, and explore your emotions.
Trust BOLD Health for Quality Outpatient Addiction Treatment in San Diego
We understand addiction. And we know how it can negatively impact your mental, physical, and emotional health. At BOLD Health, we provide comprehensive, caring, and high-quality addiction treatment in San Diego, regardless of dependency level.
The best treatment for an Ativan addiction is one that is tailored specifically to your needs. At BOLD Health, we can promise that will be the case for you and all our clients. We will take the time to genuinely understand who you are and what brought you to our door. Our team of experienced physician-led clinicians will curate an ideal outpatient addiction treatment program in San Diego that will get you back on your feet and out of Ativan addiction.
Contact us to learn more about our options for addiction treatment in San Diego, and let’s get to work reclaiming your beautiful life.