When the pressures of the world around us get a bit too much, people often look for medical alternatives to provide relief.
If you or someone you know is struggling to stop using a tranquilizer, then you could be addicted to the drug.
If you are unsure of what an addiction to tranquilizers might be, continue reading as we will discuss what it is, the signs and symptoms to look out for and what can be done to treat it.
What are Tranquilizers?
Tranquilizers are prescription drugs used in the treatment of anxiety, stress and sleeplessness.
When taken, tranquilizers cause a calming effect on the body, which is one of the main reasons why these types of drugs are so popular today.
Usually taken orally or through injections, tranquilizers can be divided into two categories, namely, minor and major.
Minor tranquilizers are the most widely used drugs of this class. Also known as benzodiazepines, sedative medication such as sleeping pills, all fall under this category.
Major tranquilizers, also known as anti-psychotic medication, are used in the treatment of psychological problems.
These problems include paranoia, psychosis, changes in perception of the world and delirium.
Major tranquilizers are different to minor tranquilizers as they do not provide the same calming effect on the body, however this can be achieved with increased dosage.
Signs and Symptoms of Tranquilizer Addiction
People who abuse tranquilizing drugs excessively show very distinct symptoms.
These symptoms range from the inability to concentrate, a slowing in breathing and heart rate, wanting to sleep continuously and appearing tired all the time, disorientation and loss of memory.
When the drug is not readily available, addicts usually suffer a series of withdrawal symptoms.
These withdrawal symptoms include being nervous all the time, increased heart rate, sleeplessness, sweating, being irritable and stressed.
If you notice any of these signs or symptoms on yourself or someone ese, seekhelp immediately.
Tranquilizer Addiction Treatment
It’s improbable that an individual is able to quit an addiction without seeking medical help.
Rehabilitation is available for those addicted to tranquilizers and the start of it would be a residential stay a rehab.
The length of stay will be determined by the type and severity of the addiction suffered, however all patients are required to remain in treatment for at least 28 days.
During your stay in rehabilitation, a medical detoxification will be done to remove any withdrawal symptoms that may be experienced due to cessation of use.
Therapy and counselling will also be done, which will help educate the individual about their addiction and how they can avoid using the drug in the future.
Once that has been completed, it is highly recommended that outpatient treatment is done, which will serve as a continuation of what was taught in rehabilitation, ut does not require a stay in treatment.
For those who want to reside in treatment, Halfway Houses are available, which helps in slowly integrating the recovering addict back into society.
Once that has been completed, tertiary care is also available for those needing further guidance and support in their quest of a sober and drug-free lifestyle.
For more information on how to get you or a loved one into treatment, please call now and we will gladly assist you!