Top Symptoms of Lorazepam Addiction

Lorazepam, a potent benzodiazepine sold under the brand name Ativan, is a powerful tool against anxiety and panic disorders. Although originally meant to help its users, it can quickly turn addictive. If you or someone you know is potentially addicted this article will cover the physical, psychological, and behavioral lorazepam addiction symptoms.

Understanding Lorazepam Abuse

Lorazepam is commonly prescribed for short-term use due to its addictive nature. However, even when taken as prescribed, some individuals may develop a dependence on the drug. Physical dependence occurs when the body becomes accustomed to the presence of lorazepam and requires higher doses to achieve the same effects. If a dependent user suddenly stops taking lorazepam, they may experience withdrawal symptoms, which are the first signs of addiction.

Physical Lorazepam Addiction Symptoms

Physical signs of lorazepam abuse may manifest in various ways. It's important to note that these signs can vary from person to person, and some individuals may exhibit only a few of these lorazepam addiction symptoms. The physical signs of lorazepam abuse include:

• Drowsiness: Lorazepam can cause excessive sleepiness and a constant feeling of fatigue.
• Labored Breathing: Individuals abusing lorazepam may experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.
• Blurred Vision: Blurriness or changes in vision can occur as a result of lorazepam abuse.
• Muscle Pain or Stiffness: Lorazepam can cause muscle aches, stiffness, or generalized pain.
• Constipation: Lorazepam abuse may lead to digestive issues, such as constipation.
• Searching the Internet for Lorazepam: Those addicted to lorazepam may spend a significant amount of time seeking information about the drug online.
• Confusion: Lorazepam abuse can cause confusion, disorientation, and difficulties with cognitive function.
• Asking Others for Lorazepam: Individuals may start asking friends, family members, or coworkers for their lorazepam tablets.
• Combining Lorazepam with Alcohol or Other Drugs: In severe cases, combining lorazepam with alcohol or other substances can lead to coma, seizures, or fatal overdose.

It's crucial to remember that these physical signs may be indicative of lorazepam abuse, but a professional evaluation is necessary to confirm an addiction.

Psychological Lorazepam Addiction Symptoms

In addition to physical lorazepam addiction symptoms, this abuse can also result in various psychological signs. These signs may be more challenging to recognize, as they can overlap with symptoms of anxiety or other mental health conditions. The psychological lorazepam addiction side effects:

• Mood Swings: Lorazepam abuse can lead to rapid and extreme changes in mood, including irritability, aggression, and depression.
• Anxiety: Paradoxically, lorazepam abuse can cause or worsen anxiety symptoms, leading to increased anxiety levels.
• Memory Impairment: Chronic lorazepam abuse may result in memory loss or difficulty retaining new information.
• Impaired Judgment: Lorazepam can impair decision-making abilities, leading to poor choices and risky behaviors.
• Social Isolation: Individuals addicted to lorazepam may withdraw from social activities, hobbies, and relationships.
• Neglecting Responsibilities: Lorazepam abuse can lead to a decline in work or academic performance and neglect of personal responsibilities.
• Excessive Sleep or Insomnia: Lorazepam abuse can disrupt sleep patterns, causing individuals to either sleep excessively or experience insomnia.
• Cravings and Preoccupation: Those addicted to lorazepam often experience intense cravings for the drug and may spend a significant amount of time thinking about it.

It's essential to note that these psychological signs can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual.

Behavioral Lorazepam Addiction Symptoms

Behavioral changes are another important indicator of lorazepam abuse. These changes may become more noticeable over time as addiction progresses. The behavioral lorazepam addiction side effects include:

• Doctor Shopping: Individuals may visit multiple doctors to obtain additional prescriptions for lorazepam.
• Prescription Medication Misuse: Lorazepam abusers may take higher doses or use the drug more frequently than prescribed.
• Legal Problems: Lorazepam abuse can lead to legal issues, such as driving under the influence or obtaining the drug illegally.
• Changes in Social Circle: Addiction often causes individuals to distance themselves from friends and family or develop new relationships with fellow substance abusers.
• Financial Difficulties: Lorazepam addiction can lead to financial strain due to spending money on obtaining the drug.
• Secretive Behavior: Those addicted to lorazepam may become increasingly secretive about their drug use, hiding pills or lying about their consumption.
• Neglecting Personal Hygiene: Lorazepam abuse can result in a decline in personal grooming and hygiene habits.
• Loss of Interest: Individuals may lose interest in previously enjoyed activities, hobbies, and responsibilities.

Recognizing these behavioral signs can help identify a potential lorazepam addiction and prompt necessary intervention and treatment.

Seeking Help for Lorazepam Addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with lorazepam addiction, it's crucial to seek professional help.

1. Detoxification: This is the first step in treating lorazepam addiction. Detoxification, often referred to as detox, involves safely managing the withdrawal symptoms as the drug is gradually cleared from the body. Medical supervision during detox is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of the individual undergoing withdrawal.
2. Therapy: Therapy plays a central role in addiction treatment by addressing the psychological aspects of addiction. Various forms of therapy may be utilized, including:
   • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): This type of therapy helps individuals identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors associated with addiction.
   • Individual therapy: One-on-one counseling sessions with a therapist to explore personal triggers, underlying issues, and develop coping strategies.
   • Group therapy: Group sessions where individuals with similar struggles come together to share experiences, provide support, and learn from one another.
   • Family therapy: Involving family members in therapy sessions can help improve communication, address family dynamics, and provide a supportive environment for recovery.
3. Medication management: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, or treat co-occurring mental health conditions. However, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for benzodiazepine addiction, including lorazepam, is not as common as it is for other substances like opioids.
4. Inpatient rehab: Inpatient rehabilitation programs provide a structured environment where individuals reside at a treatment facility for a specified period, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months. Inpatient rehab offers intensive therapy, medical supervision, and a supportive community, making it suitable for those with severe addiction or who require a higher level of care.
5. Outpatient therapy: Outpatient programs allow individuals to receive treatment while living at home and attending therapy sessions on a part-time basis. Outpatient therapy offers flexibility and allows individuals to continue with their daily responsibilities while receiving support for recovery.
6. Support groups: Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery provide ongoing peer support and encouragement for individuals in recovery. These groups offer a sense of community, accountability, and opportunities to learn from others who have successfully overcome addiction.

It's important to remember that addiction is a complex disease, and recovery is a journey that requires ongoing support and commitment. With the right treatment and support, individuals can overcome lorazepam addiction and regain control of their lives.

If you suspect that you or a loved one may have a lorazepam addiction, reach out to a healthcare professional or addiction specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Remember, there is hope and help available for those struggling with lorazepam addiction.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of lorazepam addiction is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. By understanding the physical, psychological, and behavioral lorazepam addiction side effects, individuals and their loved ones can seek timely help and support. If you or someone you know is showing signs of lorazepam addiction, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional or addiction specialist. Recovery is possible with the right treatment, support, and commitment to a healthier, drug-free life.

Sources

True Life Recovery- How Will my Social Circle Change Once I Go Through Recovery

Recovery Research Institute- Young Adults, Close Friends and Recovery Outcomes

Silvermist Recovery- How to Make New Friends in Sobriety

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