Breaking Free from Benzos: Expert Tips for Safe Withdrawal
Benzos were hard and some of the hardest clients that I've had recovery coaching are people that have been on benzos very long term, especially people that have been on it over years.
If you've ever wondered how to safely quit benzodiazepines like Xanax or Valium, this episode of Elevation Recovery is a must-listen. Matt Finch sits down with Dr. Ken Starr to tackle the tricky subject of benzo withdrawal. They dive into why it's so challenging and what can be done to make it easier. Dr. Starr explains that the key to a safer detox lies in gradual reduction, ideally cutting down a small amount every couple of weeks.
But that's not always possible for everyone, so he also talks about using medications like Gabapentin and clonidine to ease the process. Supplements can play a role too, with Dr. Starr highlighting the benefits of vitamin D, probiotics, and zinc. And for those looking ahead, there's some fascinating talk about how psychedelics might one day be used in addiction treatment. Online therapy and functional medicine are also discussed as emerging trends in the field.
This episode is packed with practical advice and forward-thinking ideas that could make a real difference for anyone struggling with benzo addiction.