Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment in Texas

Detox, Treatment, and Recovery Support at Serenity House

Benzodiazepine addiction affects thousands of individuals and families across Texas each year. Commonly prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, insomnia, and other medical conditions, benzodiazepines can be effective when used as directed. However, prolonged use, misuse, or taking higher doses than prescribed can lead to physical dependence, addiction, and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms.

Many individuals who develop benzodiazepine addiction begin by taking medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. Others obtain these medications from friends, family members, or illicit sources. Regardless of how use begins, professional treatment can help individuals safely discontinue use and begin the recovery process.

At Serenity House, we provide a continuum of care designed to help individuals safely withdraw from benzodiazepines, develop healthy coping skills, address underlying issues, and build a foundation for long-term recovery.

Benzodiazepine Addiction Quick Facts

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that act on the central nervous system by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity and promotes relaxation.

Common benzodiazepines include:
Xanax® (alprazolam)
Klonopin® (clonazepam)
Ativan® (lorazepam)
Valium® (diazepam)
Restoril® (temazepam)
Librium® (chlordiazepoxide)

These medications are commonly prescribed to treat
Anxiety disorders
Panic attacks
Insomnia
Seizure disorders
Muscle spasms
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms

While effective when used appropriately, long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.

How Are Benzodiazepines Different from Alcohol and Opioids?

Benzodiazepines, alcohol, and opioids all depress central nervous system activity, but they affect the body differently.

Alcohol also affects GABA receptors, which is why benzodiazepines and alcohol can produce similar effects and similar withdrawal risks. Opioids primarily affect opioid receptors and are more commonly associated with pain relief and respiratory depression.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction

Individuals struggling with benzodiazepine addiction may experience:

Physical Signs

Drowsiness
Fatigue
Slurred speech
Poor Coordination
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Memory problems
Sleep disturbances

Behvioral Signs

Taking more medication than prescribed
Running out of prescriptions early
Doctor shopping
Increased secrecy
Social withdrawal
Difficulty functioning without medication
Continued use despite negative consequences

Psychological Signs

Cravings
Anxiety
Depression
Irritability
Mood swings
Difficulty concentrating
Preoccupation with drinking
Using alcohol to cope with stress or emotions

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be serious and, in some cases, life-threatening. Withdrawal symptoms may include:

Because of the potential for seizures and other serious complications, individuals should not abruptly discontinue benzodiazepines without medical supervision.

Long-Term Effects of Benzodiazepine Use

Long-term benzodiazepine use may impact physical health, mental health, and daily functioning.

Physical Effects

Cognitive Effects

Mental Health Effects

Social Consequences

Why Professional Treatment Is Important

Many individuals attempt to stop taking benzodiazepines without professional guidance. Unfortunately, withdrawal symptoms can be severe and potentially dangerous.

Professional treatment can provide:
Medical evaluation and monitoring
Safe withdrawal management
Clinical support
Counseling services
Relapse prevention planning
Family education
Ongoing recovery resources

How Serenity House Treats Alcohol Addiction

Medical Detoxification

For many individuals, treatment begins with medically supervised detoxification. Because benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous, medical oversight is often necessary to ensure safety and comfort during the withdrawal process. Our team works with medical providers to help clients safely manage withdrawal symptoms and begin the recovery process.

Residential Treatment

Following detox, many clients benefit from residential treatment.

Residential services provide:

Structured daily programming
Individual counseling
Group counseling
Recovery education
Relapse prevention planning
Life skills development
Peer support

Residential treatment allows clients to focus on recovery while reducing exposure to outside triggers and stressors.

Co-Occurring Mental Health Treatment

Many individuals struggling with benzodiazepine addiction also experience:

Anxiety disorders
Panic disorders
Depression
Trauma-related concerns
Bipolar disorders
Other mental health challenges

Serenity House addresses both substance use and mental health concerns through an integrated treatment approach.

Continuing Care Planning

Recovery does not end after residential treatment.

Discharge planning may include:

Outpatient counseling
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Recovery support services
Community support groups
Alumni involvement
Recovery housing referrals

Who Benefits from Treatment

Treatment may be appropriate for individuals who:

Why Choose Serenity House?

Since 1984, Serenity House has provided substance use treatment services to over 40,000 individuals and families across Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does treatment last?

Treatment length varies based on individual needs, treatment progress, and clinical recommendations. Many individuals benefit from continuing care services following residential treatment. However, on average:

Is benzodiazepine withdrawal dangerous?

Yes. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Professional medical supervision is strongly recommended.

Can I receive treatment if I was taking benzodiazepines exactly as prescribed?

Yes. Physical dependence can develop even when medications are taken as prescribed. Treatment focuses on current needs rather than how dependence developed.

Can I receive treatment if I have anxiety?

Yes. Many individuals entering treatment initially received benzodiazepines for anxiety or panic disorders. Integrated treatment approaches, such as therapy and nonaddictive anxiety medication can address both substance use and mental health concerns simultaneously.

Can I receive treatment if I have mental health concerns?

Yes. Many individuals entering treatment experience both substance use and mental health challenges. Integrated treatment approaches can address both concerns simultaneously.

What if I've tried treatment before?

Many individuals require multiple attempts before achieving long-term recovery. Previous treatment experiences do not mean future recovery is impossible.

Do you accept insurance?

Serenity House accepts many insurance plans. Financial assistance and other funding options may also be available for eligible individuals.

Take the First Step Towards Recovery

Recovery from addiction is possible. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one, treatment can provide the support, structure, and resources needed to begin the recovery journey. Call us today to learn more about available treatment options and schedule a confidential assessment.