Youth Corner Blog
Many people have struggled with prescription drug misuse, and while their circumstances differ, a great way to learn about this issue is to hear about the impacts of prescription drug misuse directly from these individuals.
Benzodiazepines are among 10 most commonly prescribed psychotropic medications in the U.S. with reportedly as least 25.3 million or (10.4%) adults having been prescribed them between 2015-2016 alone. You've heard about the Opioid Epidemic, but no one's talking much about the benzodiazapine Epidemic that's flying under the radar. It's time to do that!
While benzodiazapine are meant to treat short term, acute anxiety, etc. prescribing rates are increasing along with hospital outpatient medical visits due to adverse affects, particularly for those taking them for extended time frames. Physical dependence to benzodiazapine can set in within the first two weeks, and while some people can find it extremely difficult, including this interview's guest speaker.
In this you'll hear directly from Melissa, speaker, poet and author, about her horrific plunge into Benzodiazapine dependence that began with a legitimate prescription to manage chronic insomnia. You'll travel with Melissa as she describes the horrific physical and emotional challenges that developed downstream. You'll also learn about her difficult journey to find help and what resources she ultimately found that most likely saved her life.
Melissa expects to have her new book, 'Mad Little Fishes', published by Spring, 2021. In the meantime, check out her descriptive and poignant blogs posted at Mad in America, https://www.madinamerica.com/author/mbond/ and share this video and resources far and wide.
Additional Resources:
- Benzodiazepine Information Coalition: https://www.benzoinfo.com/benzodiazepines/
- The Ashton Manual - Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw
by C. Heather Ashtonhttps://www.benzoinfo.com/ashtonmanual/
- For more information, contact NCAPDA at info@ncapda.org or call 925-480-7723.
Disclaimer: This interview and resources above are provided as a courtesy with no intent to direct or influence medical treatment. Every individual must make their own determination as to what support services will work best for him/her.