Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Near You

Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Near You in NJ, PA, & NY

Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for treating anxiety, insomnia, and more. However, long-term use can lead to dependence that can spiral into addiction. If you’re struggling with a benzodiazepine addiction, treatment is available at Rubicon Recovery Center. We provide compassionate, evidence-based addiction treatments for individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) from New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Learn more about benzodiazepine addiction and how our benzodiazepine addiction treatment can help you start the journey to recovery.

Key Takeaways

• Benzodiazepines are medications that help slow brain activity to provide calming effects. They have a high risk of dependency and addiction, so they are tightly regulated.
• Benzodiazepine addiction can lead to behavioral, physical, and psychological symptoms, including compulsively using the drug despite negative health effects, withdrawing from friends and family, and neglecting other responsibilities.
• Treatment options for benzodiazepine addiction include medically supervised detox, individual and group behavioral therapies, and holistic therapies.
• Rubicon Recovery Center provides 3 levels of outpatient rehab programs for people with benzodiazepine addiction.

Understanding Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepines (benzos) are a type of medication called a central nervous system depressant. These medications enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that promotes calmness, to help slow down brain activity. They are often used for treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and more.

Although they are often prescribed by a doctor, benzodiazepines come with a heightened risk of dependence and addiction, especially with long-term use. Benzodiazepine addiction occurs when a person develops a physical and psychological dependence on the drug, often leading them to take more than prescribed, request early refills, or turn to counterfeit street drugs when prescription pills are no longer available. Commonly abused benzodiazepines include:

• Alprazolam (Xanax)
• Clonazepam (Klonopin)
• Diazepam (Valium)
• Lorazepam (Ativan)

Because of their high potential for addiction, benzodiazepines are tightly regulated and classified as Schedule IV controlled substances. When a person develops an addiction to benzodiazepines, they often require professional treatment to recover and prevent relapses.

Prevalence of Benzodiazepine Addiction

Studies have shown that benzodiazepines are among the most used and misused controlled medications in the U.S. According to the 2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 1.6% of people aged 12 or older (or 4.6 million people) misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives, like benzodiazepines, in 2024. This trend is also true in New Jersey, with people of all ages misusing benzodiazepines, increasing the need for comprehensive substance use treatment in the state.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Addiction?

When a person develops a dependence on or addiction to benzodiazepines, they will often experience many different signs and symptoms. They include:

• Behavioral symptoms: These symptoms can include excessively using benzodiazepines, using benzodiazepines without a prescription, or going to different doctors to get new prescriptions. They also include mood swings, social isolation, and secrecy about benzodiazepine use.
• Physical symptoms: These symptoms often include confusion, drowsiness, slurred speech, weakness, and blurred vision. They also include withdrawal symptoms when a person can’t access the drug, including sweating, tremors, and irritability.
• Psychological symptoms: These symptoms can include wanting to cut down on use but not being able to, anxiety, depression, risk-taking behaviors, memory impairment, and intense cravings for the drug.

When these behavioral, physical, and psychological symptoms are all present, they can majorly impact a person’s daily life and decrease their overall quality of life. Professional addiction treatment is the best bet for a successful recovery. Without it, a person who is addicted to benzodiazepines has a higher risk of overdose, withdrawal, and long-term consequences, such as cognitive impairment and worsened mental health disorders.

How Is Benzodiazepine Addiction Diagnosed?

Diagnosing benzodiazepine addiction requires a comprehensive clinical assessment, which often includes taking a medical and psychological history, drug screening, and behavioral assessment. The provider will also weigh the patient’s symptoms against standardized criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). To receive a formal diagnosis, a person must exhibit 2 or more of the following aspects within a 12-month period:

• Loss of control over use, such as taking higher amounts than prescribed
• Unsuccessful attempts to reduce use
• Time-consuming use of the drug
• Intense cravings
• Neglected obligations at work, school, or home because of drug use
• Social or interpersonal problems, such as relationship conflicts
• Loss of activities
• Physical danger, such as driving while impaired
• Physical/psychological harm from drug use
• Increased tolerance
• Withdrawal when stopping the medication

If a person meets at least 2 of these criteria within a single year, they will have a formal diagnosis of benzodiazepine addiction. If a person is also diagnosed with a co-occurring mental health disorder, it’s essential to treat both with an integrated treatment plan.

Identifying the Need for Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one is struggling with dependence on benzodiazepines, you may be wondering if you need professional help. Although every person is different, there are some signs that you may need to seek benzodiazepine addiction treatment. They include:

• Neglecting your responsibilities at work, school, or home
• Isolating yourself from family and friends or withdrawing from activities you previously enjoyed
• Having a changing social circle that revolves around drug use
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you discontinue use, such as nausea, tremors, panic attacks, or insomnia
• Facing financial difficulties due to spending money on drugs
• Experiencing a decline in physical and emotional health, such as significant weight fluctuation, poor hygiene, and disrupted sleep patterns

When you seek treatment earlier, it prevents worsening addiction and withdrawal symptoms and can also lead to more effective treatment outcomes and reduce the chances of relapse.

What Is Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Like at Rubicon Recovery Center?

At Rubicon Recovery Center, we specialize in outpatient addiction treatment that lets people access structured support during the day while letting them leave at night to tend to other responsibilities. This model also lets patients put what they learn during treatment to the test in the real world. Our outpatient benzodiazepine addiction programs include 3 levels of care:

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): As our highest-level outpatient program, this option runs for 6 hours a day, 6 days a week. It lasts around 30–45 days.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): This program acts as a middle ground between PHP and OP programs, making it ideal for those transitioning. It runs for 3 hours a day, and patients must attend for 3 days a week, although they can attend for up to 5. It generally lasts for 10 to 12 weeks.
• Outpatient Program (OP): As our lowest-level program, this option runs for 2 to 3 days per week with an hour of treatment per day. It is typically only for current patients who need a lower level of care than IOP or PHP.

Each of our outpatient programs is rooted in evidence-based therapies and personalized treatment plans. When a patient comes to Rubicon Recovery Center, we will perform a thorough clinical evaluation to confirm their diagnosis and determine which level of care is best for their needs. Our team of experienced addiction specialists, therapists, and healthcare professionals collaborates to tailor treatment plans to the clinical needs and life circumstances of each patient.

What Are the Treatment Options for Benzodiazepine Addiction?

At Rubicon Recovery Center, our personalized treatment plans for benzodiazepine addiction often include a combination of different therapies and modalities. Although we always utilize evidence-based practices, we also combine supportive and holistic modalities to provide whole-person healing. Treatment plans may include:

Medical Detox Placement

Medical detoxification (detox) is often necessary for treating benzodiazepine addiction. It provides a safe and secure place for individuals to gradually taper off benzodiazepines and other substances under the supervision of medical professionals. Since sudden benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous, tapering dosages is required until the patient is fully off the drug.

At Rubicon Recovery Center, we don’t provide detox services directly. However, we provide referrals to reputable medically supervised detox facilities that our patients can attend before starting a program. We will coordinate detox placement through our Admissions Department to ensure a full continuum of care.

Behavioral Therapies

Evidence-based behavioral therapies are a major part of benzodiazepine addiction treatment. They help patients understand the root causes of their addictions, modify negative thought patterns, and foster stronger coping skills. Therapy sessions are conducted by a licensed therapist or clinician who often uses the following modalities:

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This is a type of psychotherapy that helps individuals detect and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to addiction. It also helps them identify triggers and find better coping strategies to prevent relapses.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): A subset of CBT, DBT is designed specifically for people who struggle with intense emotions and self-destructive behaviors. It uses techniques such as emotion regulation, mindfulness, and distress tolerance to help patients respond more effectively to stressful situations, especially those that may trigger relapses.
• Motivational interviewing (MI): This is a person-centered communication style that helps people resolve indecisiveness and enhance their inner motivation to change.
• Group therapy: This involves therapy sessions with a small group of peers that are led by a licensed therapist. It helps to foster connection and peer support while supplementing individual therapy.
• Family counseling: This involves family members and loved ones in therapeutic sessions with their loved ones. It is often aimed at improving relationships and establishing a supportive home environment.

Our therapists often use a combination of these therapies to provide ongoing support and connection throughout treatment.

Holistic Therapies

At Rubicon Recovery Center, we also provide holistic therapies to go beyond managing symptoms and help promote whole-person recovery. These therapies can be used during and after the treatment program to help reduce cravings, improve coping skills, and restore balance. They include:

• Yoga and qigong
• Breathwork
• Meditation
• Mindfulness
• Nutritional therapy
• Creative arts therapies, such as art, music, and drama therapy
• Nature therapy

What Are the Recovery Expectations for Benzodiazepine Addiction?

The recovery expectations for benzodiazepine addiction will not be the same for every person. Recovery is a personal journey with many different aspects that contribute to it. Some people with a benzodiazepine addiction will stay sober after one treatment program, while others will require several treatments before achieving lasting recovery.

To maximize the chances of successful recovery, individuals need aftercare resources once they get out of rehab. These resources provide continuous support to prevent relapses. At Rubicon Recovery Center, we provide our patients with ongoing therapy, relapse prevention strategies, an alumni program, and connections to community resources like sober living homes. By taking advantage of the available aftercare support, patients can maintain their sobriety and continue their journey to long-term recovery.

Why Choose Rubicon Recovery Center for Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment?

When you’re seeking treatment for addiction, where you choose to attend is important. At Rubicon Recovery Center, we provide specialized care for benzodiazepine addiction with a comprehensive approach that focuses on treating both the physical and psychological aspects. Some benefits of our facility include:

• Experienced team: We are staffed by an experienced team of licensed addiction counselors, therapists, and rehab professionals, dedicated to helping patients pursue lasting recovery.
• Evidence-based programs: Each of our outpatient treatment programs is based on a threefold disease model that addresses physical, mental, and spiritual health.
• Personalized treatments: We provide tailored treatment plans for each patient that factor in their clinical needs and life circumstances to provide whole-person care.
• Comfortable environment: Our facility features 3 large group rooms, 12 clinical offices, a conference room, and a lounge area to provide a comfortable and judgment-free place to recover. We partner with semi-private supportive housing options with 24/7 staffing for our patients.
• Insurance acceptance: We accept various insurance plans, including Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, and UnitedHealthcare, and offer a convenient insurance verification process to determine your coverage.

At Rubicon Recovery Center, our mission is to meet patients where they are. Even if people don’t meet the standard treatment criteria, we still aim to accept and support them. We also prioritize a deep understanding of patients as individuals, looking beyond diagnoses and surface-level symptoms to provide patient-centered care.

Explore Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Near You in NJ, PA, & NY

If you’re dealing with a benzodiazepine addiction, you’re not alone, and help is available. At Rubicon Recovery Center, we serve individuals from New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York with comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for benzodiazepine addiction and other SUDs. Contact us today to get more information about benzodiazepine addiction treatment near you in NJ, or call (908)-274-0015 to speak confidentially with an admissions specialist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Benzodiazepine Addiction

What are some commonly abused benzodiazepines?

Some benzodiazepines that are commonly abused include:

• Alprazolam (Xanax)
• Clonazepam (Klonopin)
• Diazepam (Valium)
• Lorazepam (Ativan)

What are the dangers of benzodiazepine addiction?

Benzodiazepine addiction is dangerous, and it can lead to physical and psychological dependence that causes compulsive urges to use the drug, withdrawal symptoms when stopping the drug, and even overdoses. Long-term risks of benzodiazepine addiction include cognitive impairment and emotional instability.

Can you develop benzodiazepine addiction if you have a legitimate prescription?

Yes, it’s entirely possible to develop a benzodiazepine addiction, even if you are prescribed the drugs by a doctor. This is because the medication can quickly lead to a physical dependence that can spiral into an addiction if left untreated.

How long does detox from benzodiazepines take?

The length of detox from benzodiazepines varies depending on the person, their tolerance, and how much they were taking. However, it can take a few weeks, a few months, or even longer to fully taper off.

What treatments are available for benzodiazepine addiction?

Treatments for benzodiazepine addiction often include a combination of medical detox, behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and group therapy, and holistic therapies like mindfulness and meditation.

Can I recover from benzodiazepine addiction without rehab?

Some people may be able to recover from benzodiazepine addiction without rehab, but a structured rehab program offers the strongest opportunity for achieving lasting recovery.

How does therapy work in benzodiazepine addiction recovery?

Therapy in benzodiazepine addiction recovery often includes ongoing one-on-one and group sessions with a therapist. It may focus on preventing relapses and improving coping skills.

What are the withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines?

Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines may include:

• Abdominal cramps
• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Difficulty concentrating
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Restlessness
• Sleep problems
• Muscle twitching
• Tremors
• Sweating

In severe cases, symptoms can include seizures, delusions, hallucinations, and psychosis.

What is the risk of overdose with benzodiazepine abuse?

There is a risk of overdose with benzodiazepine abuse, especially in people who have higher tolerances or who combine benzodiazepines with other substances. Although benzodiazepines rarely cause fatal overdoses, the risk is much higher when benzodiazepines are used with opioids or other central nervous system depressants.

How do I help someone with benzodiazepine addiction?

To help a loved one with a benzodiazepine addiction, it’s best to first educate yourself on the nuances of addiction. You can also provide the person with emotional support without judgment and encourage them to seek professional treatment when they’re ready.