Over one million Americans took Valium in 2022. Not all of them developed an addiction – in fact, only about 20,000 of them did.
Everyone deserves freedom from substance use disorders, including those living with Valium addictions.
That’s why we offer Valium addiction treatment at Wolf Creek Recovery. We know what addiction is like. Our staff is in recovery from our own substance use disorders. We remember what it took for us to get here. We know what works, and we want to share the joy of recovery with you.
What We Treat: Valium Addiction
Benzodiazepine use disorders – which Valium addiction falls under – come with challenges unique from other substance use disorders. Their intended purpose, effects, symptoms, and withdrawal are all different from something like alcohol, stimulants, or opioids. Treatment at Wolf Creek is customized with that in mind, and with you in mind. We know what works for some people doesn’t work for others, but we also know treatment can work for anyone, you included.
Maybe Valium was prescribed by your doctor for insomnia, and it brought so much relief for your symptoms – mental, emotional, and physical – that you wanted to keep taking more of it. Maybe it extended past what your doctor ever recommended. Maybe you got it from your friend or family member’s medicine cabinet for a quick fix for your anxiety, only for the situation to spin out of control. Because Valium is legal, it might seem safer than street drugs, but it can have the same devastating consequences on your life as any other substance.
How We Treat: What to Expect From Valium Addiction Treatment at Wolf Creek Recovery
Treatment at Wolf Creek starts with an assessment, where we’ll work together to figure out your customized treatment plan. This plan usually includes mental health treatment. Once we’ve established that, we’ll refer you to one of our trusted partners for a medical detox program. They’ll help you manage any withdrawal symptoms you experience after quitting Valium, and make sure the medication leaves your system safely.
Once you complete detox, you’ll start treatment with Wolf Creek in full force. We’ll set you up with supportive housing, so you won’t have to worry about where to stay during your time with us, or if your environment will be conducive to your recovery. You’ll come to our facility during the day for therapy and other healing activities, and head back to our supportive housing units at night.
You might participate in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), rational emotive behavior therapy (REBT), family therapy, and grief counseling during your time with us. We also love spending time outside canoeing, paddleboarding, camping, and playing team sports, and we encourage you to join! Treatment is what you make it, and we know from experience that the more engaged you are, the easier it is to achieve lasting recovery.
What Are the Effects of Valium on the Body and Brain?
Benzodiazepines like Valium slow down your central nervous system. This relaxes your muscles, calms you down, and makes you sleepy. Because of that, it’s frequently prescribed for anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms, and even alcohol withdrawal.
It also has other effects that can prompt addiction, including elated mood and stress relief. It can also lessen the unpleasant side effects of other substances. A lot of times, people will take Valium illicitly alongside other substances because of this, but that increases the chance of overdose and can be very dangerous.
Other side effects of Valium include:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Memory problems
- Confusion
- Depression
Valium Withdrawal, Its Causes, and Its Dangers
If you take Valium long-term, you can develop a physical dependence on the medication. That means your body gets used to Valium being in your system. When Valium isn’t in your system, your body has to adjust again, causing a lot of unpleasant symptoms. This is Valium withdrawal, and it’s a huge reason why people start taking Valium outside of their doctor’s orders.
Some symptoms of Valium withdrawal are:
- Headaches
- Stomach issues
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Rebound anxiety
- Cravings
Withdrawal can be dangerous. If you or someone you love is experiencing seizures due to Valium withdrawal, please seek medical attention. Medical detox programs are so important in Valium addiction treatment because they involve careful monitoring by medical professionals and make the withdrawal process much safer.
The Line Between Physical Dependence and Addiction: Signs of Valium Addiction
Physical dependence and addiction are not the same thing. People with a Valium addiction are often physically dependent on it, but the opposite isn’t always true. Physical dependence can be managed and overcome alongside a doctor, while addiction requires more intensive treatment.
Addiction has a psychological aspect, and physical dependence doesn’t. People with substance use disorders will feel like they can’t live without the substance. They’ll take more of it than they’re supposed to – sometimes more of it than they intend to or want to take. They’ll take Valium despite its toll on their relationships, health, and life. Often, they’ll fixate on making sure they have Valium on hand. They’ll either obtain it illicitly or by going to different doctors to try to get new prescriptions.
If this sounds familiar, it’s time to consider seeking treatment for yourself or your loved one.
Treatment Options in Arizona for People With Valium Addiction
We know firsthand how difficult it can be to break out of the cycle of Valium addiction, especially if you’re trying to do it alone. The good news is, you don’t have to. Treatment for benzodiazepine use disorders like Valium addiction is available at Wolf Creek Recovery, and we’re here for you. We hope you’ll contact us and take the first step toward transforming your life.
At Wolf Creek Recovery, we address substance use disorders and the mental health conditions that so often come along with them. That’s what promotes full recovery, and we’ll do everything in our power to help you achieve it. Call us at 833-732-8202, and start building a life you love today.
