Drive Safely – Supporting Someone With Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
It can be difficult for family, friends, doctors, and other caregivers to fully understand the effects of benzodiazepine withdrawal. No amount of empathy can prepare them for the impact of physical and psychological symptoms, personality changes, and emotional challenges, as well as the practical support that may be needed. It is not uncommon for them to allude to an exaggerated reaction or to the medication causing some kind of permanent mental or physical disorder.
Compassion fatigue or burnout occurs when a caregiver becomes emotionally, socially, mentally, and sometimes physically exhausted, resulting in apathy or a lack of ability, will, or energy to provide further attention and care. This is a natural response to the disorder associated with especially chronic or intense situations.
If you are caring for someone who is withdrawing from a benzodiazepine, the following tips will help you provide needed support without fatigue.
Learn more about the recall and what it entails
The more informed you are about benzodiazepines and withdrawal, the better prepared you will be to deal with its stages and idiosyncrasies. You will find that you are more understanding and accepting of your loved one’s experience, and you will be well equipped to provide the necessary support.
give unconditionally
You may have your own ideas about how withdrawal should be treated and what coping and treatment strategies are appropriate. As much as you can empathize, you won’t know what your loved one is going through. Resist suggesting visits to psychiatrists, speeding up or slowing down dosages, reinstituting the medication, consulting other diagnoses, or anything other than letting time and space heal.
withhold judgment
The true effects of benzodiazepines are underestimated and there is a ‘doubt factor’ that makes many doubt that taking a legally prescribed medication can cause such adverse reactions. Try to be open and not make judgments based on assumptions or what you perceive to be credible. Even many well-intentioned physicians are unaware and unaware of the true effects of long-term benzodiazepine use, specifically dependence and withdrawal.
release expectations
Appreciate that you have no control over the recovery process so you don’t feel responsible or pressured. The benzodiazepine withdrawal experience is unique and unpredictable; you may have to provide support for a much longer period than anticipated.
Give practical support
Your loved one may be in great discomfort and feel extremely lethargic and without energy. Mowing the lawn, cooking, cleaning, shopping, and taking care of the children may seem like insurmountable tasks during withdrawal. Also, for those with intense symptoms, any form of exertion can cause flare-ups. Offering to help with practical matters can make a world of difference.
actively listen
Withdrawal can be overwhelming and your loved one may feel traumatized. Talking is therapeutic, and some people feel the need to talk about their experience. Follow your loved one’s cues: if you can, listen actively, without judgment or preconceived ideas, as feelings and concerns are shared; at other times, space and/or friendly silence may be all that is needed. Also remember that non-verbal communication can be powerful and your warmth, acceptance, expressions and body language are even more important than your words.
Don’t take things personally
If your loved one is agitated or angry and overly sensitive, try not to take it personally. Withdrawal effects can cause mood swings, organic fear, paranoia, and many other psychological symptoms. Understanding that these reactions are ‘normal’ will allow you to accept them for what they are while continuing to be supportive.
Take care of yourself
Eat healthy, exercise regularly, keep up with your hobbies, and get the rest and relaxation you need. Set limits and commit to what is realistic, rather than feeling obligated to keep promises you can’t keep, as this will further drain you. If possible, hire a reliable and trustworthy relief or backup person so you can take regular breaks.
Get emotional support
Caring for someone with withdrawal can be mentally taxing, so make sure you are taking care of your own emotional needs and getting the right support at this time. It is also important that you have a trusted friend or family member to talk to about your fears, needs, and feelings. If you feel emotionally drained and tired, you will have nothing to give.
reassure your loved one
More than anything, someone experiencing withdrawal needs reassurance. Persistent and intense symptoms can cause doubts and increased anxiety. You will need to continue to encourage and reassure your loved one that they are on the mend. Hope is one of your most valuable coping tools, and your positive attitude can make a world of difference.
keep in contact
Stay in touch with your loved one even when they seem to have recovered. Withdrawal symptoms often come in ‘waves’ and you may mistake a ‘window of clarity’ (period during which symptoms temporarily disappear) for full recovery. Most people are devastated when symptoms return and that’s when they need it the most.