Using Anti-anxiety Medications?

Google reports that searches for "anxiety" and "panic attacks" have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic (CNN.com Aug. 24, 2020).

Have you experienced anxiety and panic symptoms in the past year? Although anxiety and panic attacks don’t always require medication, benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, Ambien, etc.) are the class of drugs often prescribed for this condition. Work closely with your doctor if these medications are offered to you. Unmanaged, they can leave you dependent (addicted), and willpower will have no preventative effect. Improperly managed, withdrawal from benzos can be dangerous, too—even more so than heroin.

The older you are, the greater the risk of injuries and accidents while using benzos. If you’re starting to take a benzodiazepine, begin with the end in mind. These drugs are not meant for long-term use. Consider psychotherapeutic help in tandem with medication to boost your gains.

Source: www.nih.gov [search “despite risk benzodiazepine use”]

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Keith Stein | 11/19/2020