Akathisia is one of the most common symptoms of benzo withdrawal. It is often defined by the feeling of inner restlessness and the urgency to keep moving. It can be exhausting, overwhelming, and even debilitating for some — but it can be managed.

Steven Wright, M.D. is a leading expert in benzodiazepines and serves on the board of the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices. That, along with his 31 years of addiction medical experience, makes this a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Steven Wright, M.D. is a leading expert in benzodiazepines and serves on the board of the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices. That, along with his 31 years of addiction medical experience, makes this a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Unsteady, Unintelligible, and Unyielding: Head and Neck Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal

Intimacy is essential to a healthy, happy life. And yet, during benzo withdrawal it is often one of the earliest casualties. How can a loving relationship — let alone a healthy sex life — survive the trials of benzo dependence and withdrawal?

How do benzodiazepines work? What do they do in the body? Why do they initially calm us, but then stop working? And why are they so incredibly hard to stop? When we take a look at the neurotransmitters GABA and glutamate, we find a few answers.

Do you know much about the cognitive effects of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs? Perhaps you should. Memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, and intrusive memories are all possible symptoms of benzo use and withdrawal.

Have you heard the term ‘sensory hypersensitivity,’ but don’t really know what it means? Perhaps you should ask someone in benzo withdrawal. Sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, and tastes can be common. Learn the causes and a few tips on how to cope.

More senior citizens take benzos than any other age group. And yet, they are also the group most at-risk for complications. What are the effects of this dangerous combination? And what can be done to buck the overprescribing trend?

Can a unique blend of neuroscience, compassion, and spirituality be the secret to success in benzo withdrawal? Jennifer Leigh seems to think so. And so do many of the people she has coached.