Benzodiazepine Addiction in Maine

Understanding the Risks and Seeking Help

 

Benzodiazepine Abuse in Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire

Common benzodiazepines include:

  • Xanax (Alprazolam)
  • Klonopin (Clonazepam)
  • Valium (Diazepam)
  • Ativan (Lorazepam)

Benzodiazepines, commonly known as “benzos,” are prescription medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. However, they are highly addictive and frequently misused. In Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire, benzodiazepine addiction is a growing concern, especially when combined with opioids, fentanyl, or alcohol, leading to dangerous, life-threatening consequences.

Many people start taking benzodiazepines with a legitimate prescription but develop a dependency that leads to misuse. Others obtain them illegally, often unaware that counterfeit pills may contain fentanyl, significantly increasing the risk of overdose.

At Connextions Behavioral Health, we provide comprehensive addiction treatment for individuals struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, including those who are cross-addicted to opioids, fentanyl, or alcohol. Our PNMI residential program, recovery housing, and outpatient services offer a structured path to recovery for men and women throughout Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepine addiction often co-occurs with opioid or alcohol abuse, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms when a person tries to quit. Medical stabilization is crucial before entering a structured recovery program to ensure safety and prevent life-threatening complications.

    Physical Signs of Addiction

    • Drowsiness and dizziness
    • Slurred speech
    • Poor coordination and unsteady movements
    • Blurred vision
    • Memory impairment
    • Muscle weakness

    Behavioral Changes

    • Taking higher doses than prescribed
    • Doctor shopping for multiple prescriptions
    • Isolating from friends and family
    • Engaging in risky or impulsive behaviors
    • Experiencing legal or financial troubles

    Psychological Symptoms

    • Depression and anxiety
    • Mood swings and irritability
    • Cognitive impairment and confusion
    • Hallucinations or paranoia

Benzodiazepine addiction often co-occurs with opioid or alcohol abuse, leading to severe withdrawal symptoms when a person tries to quit. Medical stabilization is crucial before entering a structured recovery program to ensure safety and prevent life-threatening complications.

How Connections Behavioral Health Can Help

At Connections Behavioral Health, we offer a full continuum of care for benzodiazepine addiction, including support for individuals who are also addicted to fentanyl, alcohol, or opioids.

We Can Help
  1. PNMI Residential Program

    Our Private Non-Medical Institution (PNMI) residential program provides:

    • A structured, supportive environment for recovery
    • Individualized treatment plans tailored to each person’s needs
    • Therapeutic support to address underlying mental health issues
  2. Recovery Housing

    For those transitioning out of residential treatment, our recovery housing offers:

    • A safe, drug-free environment to support long-term sobriety
    • Peer accountability and recovery coaching
    • Access to outpatient services for continued care
  3. Outpatient Services

    Our outpatient programs offer flexible treatment options while allowing individuals to maintain work, school, and family responsibilities.

    We provide:

    • Individual and group therapy
    • Family counseling to rebuild relationships
    • Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for those with co-occurring opioid or fentanyl addiction
    • Relapse prevention planning

The Risks of Benzodiazepine Use and Polysubstance Abuse

Inherent Risks

Benzodiazepines are often used in combination with other substances, which increases the likelihood of severe consequences, including:

  • Overdose Risk: When mixed with alcohol or opioids, benzodiazepines can slow breathing to dangerous levels, leading to unconsciousness, coma, or death.
  • Legal Consequences: Unlawful possession, driving under the influence, and engaging in illegal activities to obtain benzodiazepines can result in arrests and criminal charges.
  • Cognitive Decline: Long-term benzodiazepine abuse is linked to memory loss, impaired decision-making, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Withdrawal Dangers: Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, panic attacks, and hallucinations.

If you or a loved one is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, seeking professional treatment is the safest and most effective way to recover.

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The Risks of Benzodiazepine Use and Polysubstance Abuse

Inherent Risks

Benzodiazepines are often used in combination with other substances, which increases the likelihood of severe consequences, including:

  • Overdose Risk: When mixed with alcohol or opioids, benzodiazepines can slow breathing to dangerous levels, leading to unconsciousness, coma, or death.
  • Legal Consequences: Unlawful possession, driving under the influence, and engaging in illegal activities to obtain benzodiazepines can result in arrests and criminal charges.
  • Cognitive Decline: Long-term benzodiazepine abuse is linked to memory loss, impaired decision-making, and difficulty concentrating.
  • Withdrawal Dangers: Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, panic attacks, and hallucinations.

If you or a loved one is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, seeking professional treatment is the safest and most effective way to recover.

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Insurance and Payment Options

If you have another insurance provider, we will work with you to explore coverage options and ensure access to care.

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