Coping with Withdrawal in Xanax Detox

Xanax withdrawal has many dangerous side effects and can be difficult to deal with alone. It is generally recommended that you seek professional help when undergoing Xanax detox. Physical withdrawal symptoms include seizures, blurred vision, changes in sense of smell, sight, and hearing, uncontrollable body shakes, nausea, and muscle cramps. Psychological symptoms include anxiety, irritability, aggressive behavior, difficulty sleeping, and difficulty concentrating. Any combination of these symptoms is unpleasant, but can be dealt with.

While withdrawal is an incredibly difficult endeavor, it can be overcome. These coping techniques, when combined with time and patience, can help you get off of Xanax.

Managing withdrawal with medication

Support groups can help you cope with Xanax withdrawal.

The effects of Xanax withdrawal are most strongly felt when you abruptly stop using the drug. This is extremely dangerous and should be avoided. What is recommended instead is managing withdrawal by tapering off your use by slowly and steadily taking smaller doses of Xanax.

In certain cases anticonvulsants may be prescribed to reduce the risk of seizures. It is important to note, however, that even with very controlled withdrawal treatment seizures and delirium are possible so it is important that you do not drive or operate machinery while you are going through Xanax detox. Other medications may be prescribed to you to deal with some of the physical aspects of withdrawal such as nausea and cramping, especially if you are undergoing detox in a hospital or other controlled setting.

Behavioral and cognitive methods

Behavioral therapies can be helpful in coping with withdrawal in Xanax detox. Through sessions with a counselor, you can work to alter your negative thoughts about quitting and turn them into positive sentiments. Behavioral techniques can be used to reduce anxiety and to help with trouble sleeping.

With behavioral therapy, you can learn to identify what led you to abuse Xanax and to begin dealing with your problems more openly. You can establish motivation to lead a drug-free life. If you have harmed anyone with your drug use, cognitive therapy will help you to recognize that and to discover what you can do to make things better. These methods will help you to cope with withdrawal because they will help give you the determination, peace of mind, and tranquility that you need to quit.

Support groups

Having support is an extremely important factor in coping with withdrawal. The psychological and physical symptoms that you are feeling are the same ones that other people in your position are dealing with. Talking to each other about your experiences can make coping with Xanax detox withdrawal much easier. This is especially true if you do not have close family or friends, or if the people closest to you do not seem to understand or know how to support you. If you can’t find a support group near you, there are online resources such as discussion boards and other types of virtual support groups that you may find helpful.

Relaxation techniques, a good diet, and exercise

Some withdrawal symptoms can be managed through relaxation, diet, and exercise. Eating well and staying fit will help you keep your mind healthy and can help you sleep better. It helps to produce endorphins, making you happy and more relaxed. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing can help relieve anxiety and to cope with panic attacks.