Valium addiction

Prescribed use gone too far

Many people are introduced to Valium through a prescription to manage anxiety, stress or sleep disorders. While it can be highly effective in the short term, over time, the body may develop a tolerance to the drug. This can lead to the individual taking higher doses or using it more frequently than prescribed, eventually causing physical and psychological dependence.

Self-medication for anxiety or stress

Valium’s calming effects can make it an attractive option for those dealing with chronic stress or anxiety. What may begin as a way to manage occasional panic attacks or overwhelming emotions can slowly turn into habitual use. People may start relying on Valium to cope with day-to-day life, and as the brain becomes accustomed to its effects, quitting or reducing use becomes difficult.

Relief from physical pain

Valium is sometimes prescribed for muscle spasms, chronic pain or to relax the body after surgery or injury. The physical relief it provides can make it an appealing option for long-term use. However, the longer it’s used, the more the body builds tolerance, and this can lead to a dangerous cycle where the person needs more Valium to achieve the same relief. This physical dependence can gradually evolve into addiction.

Emotional numbing

Valium can dull emotional pain, and for those dealing with trauma, depression or overwhelming emotions, it may seem like a solution. The drug’s ability to suppress negative feelings can be incredibly tempting. However, as someone becomes dependent on Valium to escape emotional distress, they may start using it regularly to feel ‘numb.’ Over time, this reliance on Valium to avoid uncomfortable emotions can lead to both emotional and physical addiction.

Understanding the signs of Valium addiction, whether in yourself or someone close to you, is crucial for seeking help early. Valium, a medication prescribed to manage anxiety and other conditions, can sometimes lead to dependency or addiction when used incorrectly or for extended periods.

Recognising the physical, psychological and behavioural signs can help you or your loved one take the necessary steps towards recovery before the Valium addiction escalates.

It’s understandable to feel a bit concerned if you’ve been prescribed Valium, especially with all the talk about addiction in this article.

The most important thing is to follow your doctor’s guidance closely and stay in communication with them about how you’re feeling. If you start to notice that you need more Valium to get the same effect or you’re using it longer than planned, it could be a good idea to check in with your doctor to make sure everything is on the right track. It’s always better to address any concerns early, rather than waiting until you’re feeling uneasy about it.

If you’ve been taking Valium without a prescription, it’s important to understand that this doesn’t make you a bad person. Sometimes, in dealing with life’s difficulties, we turn to things that help us get through – and there’s no shame in that. What matters now is recognising when it might be time to seek some support.

The great news is, your doctor’s office is always open to you, no matter the circumstances that led you here. Whether you need help cutting back, managing use or simply want to talk things through, professionals are there to listen and guide you without judgement. Reaching out is a positive step and you deserve to feel supported through it all.

If, after discussing with a medical professional, you’re advised to seek treatment for Valium addiction, Liberty House offers inpatient rehab as one of the options you can consider.

At Liberty House, the journey to recovery often starts with a medical detox, where medical professionals monitor you closely to ensure your comfort and safety during the withdrawal process. This supportive environment helps manage withdrawal symptoms effectively, making the early stages of recovery more manageable.

Once detox is complete, Liberty House provides a range of therapies, including individual counselling and group sessions, all designed to help you understand the root causes of your addiction. These therapies aim to uncover any underlying issues, such as stress or trauma and teach you coping strategies for managing these triggers without turning to substances.

Inpatient rehab at Liberty House is a comprehensive programme that addresses not just the physical aspects of addiction but also the emotional and psychological challenges, offering a well-rounded approach to recovery.

If you or a loved one’s relationship with Valium is becoming problematic, reach out to Liberty House today. We’re ready and waiting to begin your recovery journey.