I became addicted to Benzodiapines during/following the death of my mother from Alzheimer's four years ago. I have always been "drug aware" --never used birth control pills, never took Estrogen, yet in that most difficult time of my life, a doctor gave me one little Ativan, said it would help me with the stress and from there, proceeded to Benzo Hell. It has taken me these four years to get down to 1. mg three times a day. Every .25 mg cut (every 2 weeks) is torture: heart palpitations, ears ringing, dizzy etc. I know I'm getting close but also as part of the withdrawal, anxiety forms which is what I took it for in the first place !! I'm trying to shout from the rooftops in every forum I can think of ----please be careful: do not take ANY benzo for longer than a couple of weeks. It has been my experience that doctors will prescribe anything just to get you out of their office. Whilst undergoing another Hellish experience the last three weeks (extraction of all my upper teeth and a plate), I cannot take, as a result of the tapering from Valium, any meds----you get the picture !! So, be aware folks !! Instead of reaching for aquick fix pill, go for long walks, drink some chamomile tea, listen to some music, etc. but DO NOT GO FOR THE PILLS !!

prairiegrl,

I have heard withdrawl from benzos are horrible and I am sorry you are experiencing it. My very sincere condolences on the loss of your mother

Not everyone who uses Benzos becomes addicted. There are those that can and do use Benzos responsibly. I have used a Benzo for 6 years. I take it when I need to and never touch it if I don't need it. For me it's not a "quick" fix" but the difference between doing something very stupid, impulsive or losing control verses staying in control and being able to function normally.

All of those suggestions you made; go for long walks, drink some chamomile tea, listen to some music, etc. are great and I have tried them and more.