Posted by JCB on June 22, 2001, at 0:58:18
In reply to just advice, posted by Ellen on August 8, 1999, at 6:34:35
I recently was prescribed Klonopin to deal with the stresses of having a serious chronic illness recently diagnosed. I also am a professional mental health counselor who's been working with drug/alcohol addicted clients for over 5 years now. After reading all the opinions on what is or isn't addictive, I thought I might share my experience in treating my addicted clients. As far as the benzos (klonapin, xanax, valium, etc) withdrawal is serious if you've taken a high enough dose for a long enough time. I've had clients that were taking 6-10 pills a day if not more for years. They usually get detoxed in a hospital over a 2 week period and are given a comperable drug to help manage the withdrawal symptoms. Here is my point. I've had MANY clients VERY addicted to benzos and most of their addiction (after being detoxed of course) was purely psychological addiction. I'm not saying they didn't feel anxiety, I'm sure they were, but it wasn't withdrawal, but rather their perception of life's struggles w/out anti-anxiety medication to buffer normal day to day stress that we all otherwise learn to deal with w/out medication. I've had great success in treating these clients using a variety of cognative-behavioral therapies, mostly in conjunction with family or peer group support. To sum this up, I do believe it is possible to "get off" of any drug you feel you are addicted to. I have had clients who were addicted to EXTREMELY addictive substances such as methadone (more addictive than heroin if you can believe it!) get off the stuff. I suggest that if you're having trouble getting off a drug, you consider seeking treatment at a good chemical dependency program in your city. It would be worth the try if it works for you.
poster:JCB
thread:1356
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010618/msgs/67442.html