Millions of people take benzodiazepine drugs to manage mental health or medical conditions. While people can safely take these drugs under careful medical supervision, some people misuse them and develop physical dependence.

People with benzodiazepine addiction require comprehensive treatment programs. Rehab centers may offer a range of programs, from inpatient medical detox programs to outpatient relapse prevention programs. Finding the level of care to meet each person’s needs is essential.

This article will explore where to find a benzo addiction treatment center in San Antonio, TX.

If you or someone you love abuses benzodiazepines or struggles with drug and alcohol abuse, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health to explore your treatment options. Learn about our holistic approach to recovery or schedule an appointment today.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are prescription medications that have a calming effect on the central nervous system. Doctors can prescribe benzodiazepines (benzos) to help patients manage panic disorder, anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, insomnia, and other conditions.

Common benzodiazepine prescription drugs include:

• Halcion (triazolam)
• Ativan (lorazepam)
• Xanax (alprazolam)
• Valium (diazepam)
• Restoril (temazepam)
• Klonopin (clonazepam)

People may feel relaxed and calm when taking benzos. People may like the way they feel while taking benzodiazepines. Some may misuse these medications by:

• Taking larger doses than prescribed
• Taking a drug for a longer period than prescribed
• Taking a dose more often than prescribed
• Ingesting a medication differently than prescribed (such as crushing and snorting pills)

People may also take benzodiazepine medications recreationally, meaning without a prescription. Over time, benzo abuse can lead to physical dependence. People with physical dependence may require intensive treatment and support to break free from addiction.

Effects and Risks of Benzodiazepine Abuse

All prescription drugs have the potential to cause unwanted side effects. People who take prescription benzos may experience relief from anxiety. They may also experience other side effects, including:

• Poor coordination
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Changes in mood
• Aggression
• Slurred speech

Misusing benzos is more likely to cause unwanted side effects. It is important to be aware of the risk of benzodiazepine abuse. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize misuse.

Alamo Behavioral Health accepts many major insurance plans, including:

Check if my insurance covers rehab

Recognizing Benzo Addiction

People who take prescription benzo drugs may abuse them. People may also take benzodiazepines without a prescription for their pleasurable side effects. Over time, people who abuse benzos may develop signs of addiction, including:

• Tolerance (needing to take more to get the desired effects)
• Running out of prescriptions early
• Feeling anxious about running out of their prescription medication
• Doctor shopping to get more benzos (having multiple prescriptions from different doctors)
• Experiencing cravings for benzodiazepines
• Experiencing benzo withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, shaking, sweating, etc.) if they stop taking a drug
• Neglecting responsibilities, hobbies, and relationships
• New or worsening mental health symptoms
• Increased isolation or making a new group of friends quickly
• Doing dangerous things while intoxicated, like driving, working, or having unprotected sex

People with benzodiazepine addiction often cannot stop taking them on their own. Most people require intensive, comprehensive treatment and continuing support to quit and avoid relapse safely.

What to Expect in Benzodiazepine Rehab in San Antonio

Knowing what to expect from addiction treatment can help you make the best choices about your care. This information can help you prepare for each stage of addiction recovery.

Benzodiazepine addiction treatment happens in stages. Here is an overview of what to expect during a benzo addiction treatment program.

Assessment

Before you start treatment, mental health or medical professionals will assess your needs. This assessment will help your treatment team create the most effective rehab plan possible.

The assessment will consist of questions about your past and current substance use. It will also include a complete medical and mental health history, lab testing, physical exam, and more.

Detox

Medical and mental health support can help you safely navigate the detox process. Your detox treatment program may include:

• Medications to ensure safety and reduce withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
• Holistic therapies like nutrition support, yoga, mindfulness, and more

People may attend inpatient or outpatient detox programs.

Treatment

After detox, each person begins to follow a tailored treatment program. Comprehensive treatment programs include:

• Medication management
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other behavioral therapies to help people identify destructive behavior and thought patterns
• Individual and group therapy
• Family counseling and education
• Relapse prevention education
• Coping skills
• Holistic therapies
• Aftercare planning and support programs

Intensive treatment programs provide structure and support during the early stages of a person’s recovery journey. After completing treatment, people must create and follow an aftercare plan.

An aftercare plan may include mental health treatment, medical care, and more treatment. People may also engage in 12-step meetings, volunteer opportunities, and other activities that support lifelong addiction recovery.

Find Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment in San Antonio

If you or someone you love struggles with benzo abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to explore our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.