After dealing with burnout a few years ago and an unfortunate decision to use benzodiazepines in desperation, I made my way back to feeling better and got myself off of the medication. It has been almost four months since I stopped the medication. I am now left with obesity, edema, and a negative metabolism that I did not have just 3 years ago despite exercising and very controlled diet, random and frustrating aches and pains that I must deal with when I was perfectly healthy before and a loss of my ability to write when I was once an author who blogged and wrote every day. I was once clever and now I’m challenged some days just to fight off a still too heavy work-load. It feels as if my brain will never be the same. So, I’m so grateful to find this program and all of the wonderful information here. I understand that it can take up to 9 months for the brain to begin to return to normal after benzodiazepines. I am so very hopeful that participating in the great activities here, grabbing hold of and staying close to the positive will help me make the difference that I most want. I just want the normal me back. Not obese, not overly anxious and stressed, healthy again and happy again. I know I can get there and I know I do have incredible tenacity and patience both. I’m ever hopeful all will be well again eventually.
Better Together
My Brain Post-Benzodiazepines
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We are so happy that you are here! Sounds like you are doing many good things for yourself. The more avenues of support you offer your brain and body, the sooner you can begin to feel better, so keep the faith and know you are planting the seeds for a healthier brain long-term. We are here to support your efforts! Best to you!-Coach Zoe
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Thank you so much for your response. I really appreciate it. I do plan to stick around and keep myself busy while my brain heals. I need patience and consistency. To do all the right things as I have been even if there are no results at present. I can be patient and I can be consistent. I can continue to focus on what I can do. 🙂 Thanks again. 🙂
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To encourage you: you were on them three years? I was on them for five, under a doctor’s prescription. I complained that they affected my memory, but he brushed that off. But now, after four years off of them, my brain is coming back. You will make leaps and strides in your improvement by following Dr. Amen’s plan. I can’t believe the changes in me in the last 8 months! I’m still not fully back to where I was before, but I am so much better. Hang in there!
Thanks for the share, I, too, am weaning off the benies, and it is a struggle. I m glad there are others out in the world struggling. Again, thanks.
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I am in the process of weaning off Lorazepam after taking a small dose (.5 mg) daily for almost a year. I have another physician who has suggested using Gabapentin to help with the tapering and side affects. Does anyone have advice on if they weaned themselves off the meds alone or with help? I’m really scared because I am already feeling the affects and withdrawl symptoms. I too have been doing all of Dr. Amen’s work and considering scheduling a visit and SPECT at one of the Amen Clinics to get professional help and support.
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I’m very glad to hear you are doing this under the care of a physician. Continue to practice the healthy brain habits you are learning here, including taking the supportive brain supplements to ease your withdrawal symptoms. For additional support, consider a consultation with one of our physicians. -Coach Zoe
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Doctors have always talked to me about the dangers of benzos’ but that annoyed me because i do not have an addictive personality and nothing was properly dealing with my panic attacks. I exercise almost daily–riding my bike at least 5 miles. I have lost 20 pounds in two months, but I still have 35lbs left to go. I am gradually eliminating my sugar intake and I have decided to leave marijuana alone. The munchies are not my friends. I need a life over haul and I believe I am on the right path to a healthy brain and a new life. I wish everyone here well!
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