Benzodiazepines (benzos) are one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States. They have not risen to the type of problem prescription opioids pose, yet they are a severe concern of the addiction treatment community. Treatment for benzo addiction remains in demand, particularly in Florida. As a state, Florida sees some of the highest rates of addiction and overdose deaths annually. Treatment providers like Gulf Breeze Recovery work to remedy the high rates of addiction by providing comprehensive care that fundamentally alters a person’s future trajectory. Call 833.551.2304 to learn more about benzo addiction treatment in Gulf Breeze, Florida.
The Need for Benzo Addiction Treatment in Gulf Breeze, Florida
Florida currently ranks second in the nation for annual overdose deaths. In 2021, only California experienced more overdose deaths than Florida. Nearly 8,000 Floridians lost their lives to a drug overdose in 2021. It marked a 37% increase in overdose deaths over the numbers in 2019. Fentanyl is one of the biggest culprits in Florida’s addiction and overdose crisis.1 Yet benzos play a significant role as well.
Treatment for benzo addiction is needed across Florida, including in and around Gulf Breeze in the panhandle region. Addiction and drug abuse are not public health concerns that are likely to dissipate on their own. Dealing with this problem requires a concerted effort from treatment providers and a problem-solving mindset from the wider community.
What to Know About Benzos
Benzos are similar to opioids in that they are meant to be used for a short period and can be habit-forming. Taking benzos every day for a few weeks is likely to result in dependence or addiction. Common side effects from taking benzos include:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Muscle weakness
- Drowsiness
Benzos are a type of sedative prescription medication. They are typically used to treat anxiety disorders. However, since they can be addictive, taking benzos for more than a month is not recommended. Their short-term usage means they are best suited for a brief round of treatment for severe anxiety or panic attacks. They also have some use in treating alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
What to Expect from Treatment for Benzo Addiction
Treatment for benzo addiction typically begins with a medical detox, eliminating a drug from the body by stopping use and providing medical oversight. The detox timeline can range from a few days to a few weeks. Most people experience at least some withdrawal symptoms when they detox from benzos. After detox is complete, there are two primary options for treatment: inpatient and outpatient rehab.
Inpatient rehab involves a residential stay that lasts anywhere from one month to a year or longer. Treatment includes behavioral therapy, mental health treatment, support groups, educational services, and more. Outpatient treatment does not require a residential stay. Instead, clients attend treatment during the day while continuing to live at home. Many people can keep working or upholding family responsibilities while following outpatient treatment.
Eventually, formal treatment ends. The period following a round of inpatient or outpatient rehab is called aftercare. Aftercare is a broad term for any support and resources that someone accesses concerning preventing relapse and staying sober.
Find Benzo Addiction Treatment in Florida at Gulf Breeze Recovery
You may wonder, “Where can I find benzo addiction treatment near me?” Benzo addiction treatment is widely available in Florida. Gulf Breeze Recovery is a leading provider of benzo addiction treatment in Gulf Breeze, Florida. We are here to help you determine the right level of care necessary for you to overcome your benzo addiction. If you’re in Florida, contact Gulf Breeze Recovery today at 833.551.2304 to learn more about benzo addiction treatment options near you.
Footnote:
1. WUSF Public Media – Florida Second in Nation for Overdose Deaths
