Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults. Doctors often prescribe medications like Ativan to help their patients find relief from their symptoms. Unfortunately, these medications can be highly addictive and cause significant new problems in a person’s life. Without a benzo addiction treatment program, it may be challenging—even dangerous—to try and break the cycle of addiction alone.
Ativan addiction is a serious problem that can have devastating consequences. The good news is that there is help available. Northpoint Recovery can provide the treatment you need to overcome your addiction and get your life back on track. Our compassionate team knows how important compassionate, evidence-based treatment is for addiction. Call 888.296.8976 to get started today.
What Is Ativan?
Lorazepam, better known by its brand name Ativan, is a highly potent benzodiazepine. Benzos help the brain produce more GABA, a neurotransmitter that affects mood.
Ativan’s primary use is to relieve anxiety disorders, but it is also commonly used to treat seizure disorders and insomnia. Its rapid action makes it an ideal drug for treating acute anxiety or panic attacks. However, its potency and potential for abuse make it a dangerous drug, particularly when used without a prescription.
The Risk of Ativan Dependency
While Ativan is not physically addictive, it can create a powerful psychological dependence. People who abuse Ativan often take higher doses than prescribed or take the drug more frequently than directed. They may also crush and snort the pills or mix them with alcohol to intensify their effects.
People who abuse Ativan may develop a tolerance to the drug, meaning they need to take larger doses to achieve the same effects. Tolerance can lead to dependence and, eventually, addiction.
20 Signs of Ativan Abuse
Once someone starts abusing Ativan, you may notice certain signs and symptoms. These include:
- Taking Ativan for reasons other than those prescribed
- Increasing the dose of Ativan without a doctor’s approval
- Taking Ativan more often than prescribed
- Crushing and snorting Ativan pills
- Mixing Ativan with alcohol or other drugs
- Stealing or borrowing Ativan from others
- Lying about Ativan use
- Neglecting work or school responsibilities in favor of using Ativan
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Losing interest in hobbies or activities that were once enjoyed
- Experiencing financial problems due to Ativan use
- Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence of Ativan
- Continuing to use Ativan despite negative consequences
- Feeling unable to stop using Ativan
- Needing Ativan to feel normal
- Feeling anxious or irritable when Ativan is not available
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when Ativan use is stopped
- Neglecting important responsibilities at home or work in favor of using Ativan
- Continuing to use Ativan despite relationship problems
- Experiencing legal problems due to Ativan use
If you or someone you love displays any of these signs, it’s essential to seek professional help as soon as possible. Ativan addiction is a severe condition that can lead to life-threatening consequences.
Benzo Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with Ativan abuse, the first step is to seek professional help. At Northpoint Recovery, we offer a comprehensive benzo addiction treatment program that includes detox, individual therapy, group therapy, and aftercare planning. Our experienced team of addiction professionals will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs.
We know how difficult it can be to ask for help, but we also know that it’s possible to recover from Ativan addiction. If you’re ready to take the first step on the road to recovery, we’re here to help. Contact us today by calling 888.296.8976 to learn more about our Ativan addiction treatment program.