Benzodiazepine Addiction: Just as Potent as Opioids [INFOGRAPHIC]

Benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as “benzos,” include medications like Valium, Xanax, and Ativan, often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. However, these drugs can be highly addictive and misuse can lead to severe health consequences.

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), benzo misuse is a nationwide issue, with over 5.2 million people reported misusing prescription benzodiazepines in 2018. This represents a significant portion of the population and highlights the need for increased awareness and resources to address this growing public health issue.

In Texas, the situation is equally alarming. Research reveals that Texas ranks third in the nation for the highest number of drug overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines. This statistic underscores the urgent need for specialized treatment options for individuals struggling with benzo addiction in the state.

The Imporantance of Proper Treatment

Treatment for benzodiazepine addiction often involves a combination of medical detoxification and residential treatment. Medical detox helps individuals safely withdraw from the drug under the care of medical professionals. Residential treatment provides a sober environment where individuals can focus on recovery and learn coping strategies to prevent relapse.

It’s also important to note the value of dual diagnosis programs. Many people who misuse benzos also struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Dual diagnosis programs address both the substance misuse and the underlying mental health condition, providing a more comprehensive approach to treatment.

The statistics provided by the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) underscores the severity of the benzo addiction crisis. It highlights the importance of accessible, comprehensive treatment options for those struggling with this form of substance misuse. The data presented serves as a call to action, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to combat benzo addiction in Texas and across the nation.

Source: https://magnoliacitydetox.com/blog/benzo-addiction-statistics-tx/