Prescription drug abuse is a serious problem in the United States. Research from 2021 showed that more than 14 million people aged 12 or older had abused a prescription drug in the previous year.
Valium is a commonly prescribed prescription drug. People take it to manage symptoms of anxiety, seizure disorders, muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal, and other conditions. People who misuse Valium may become addicted to it.
People who become addicted to Valium often require comprehensive treatment and continuing support. This article will explore how to identify Valium addiction and where to find treatment to overcome it.
If you or someone you love needs Valium rehab in West Palm Beach, you are not alone. Reach out to the caring specialists at the Mandala Healing Center to learn about our treatment programs. You may also schedule an intake assessment or ask questions.
What is Valium?
Valium is the brand name for a drug called diazepam. Valium is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines.
Valium is a prescription medication. Doctors can prescribe Valium to help patients with anxiety disorders and other conditions.
Valium works by slowing activity in the central nervous system (CNS). This can reduce disruptive or uncomfortable symptoms that go along with anxiety, seizure disorders, and alcohol withdrawal.
Valium is available in an oral solution or tablet. People taking Valium should use it exactly as their doctor prescribes. Misusing Valium can lead to physical dependence or addiction.
The Effects and Risks of Valium
All medications can cause side effects. Some of the side effects of Valium include:
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Depression
- Headache
- Nausea
- Blurred vision
- Low blood pressure
- Slower reaction times
- Memory problems
- Incontinence
- Slurred speech
- Skin reactions
- Anti-social behaviors
Some people who take Valium may experience dangerous complications. These include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Insomnia
- Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there
- Falls and accidents
- Aggressive behaviors
- Rage
- Dangerous respiratory depression
- Worsening kidney and liver disease
- Coma
- Addiction
- Death
People who misuse Valium are more likely to experience unwanted or dangerous side effects.
Valium Addiction: An Overview
Drugs like Valium work by increasing the amount of GABA (a brain chemical) in a person’s brain. GABA slows brain activity and can make people feel relaxed and calm.
People may like the way Valium makes them feel. They may want to take more of this medication than their doctor told them to. Doctors usually prescribe Valium and other benzodiazepines for short periods. This helps to reduce the risk of addiction.
Taking prescription drugs differently than prescribed is a form of substance misuse. Substance misuse includes:
- Taking a higher dose of a drug than prescribed
- Using a medication more often than prescribed
- Taking a drug for longer than prescribed
- Ingesting a drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Taking a medication without a prescription for it
Misusing Valium and other prescription medications can lead to tolerance. Tolerance means that a person’s body has gotten used to a substance. People may find they need to take more of a drug to get the desired effects. ‘
After a period of heavy use, people may develop physical dependence on a drug. Physical dependence means that their body can’t function unless they take the drug.
People with a substance use disorder need professional treatment and ongoing support. This will allow them to stop using Valium and learn how to avoid relapse.
What to Expect at a Valium Rehab Center
Valium addiction treatment occurs in stages. Here is an overview of what to expect during treatment at a prescription drug abuse treatment facility.
Assessment
You will have an evaluation before beginning a medical detox and treatment program. This evaluation will let your treatment team develop the most effective treatment plan. The assessment will consist of:
- Information about your substance use
- A family history of substance abuse and mental health conditions
- A physical exam and lab testing
- Information about your physical and mental health
This information will help your doctors and support staff tailor your treatment plan to meet your needs.
Medication-assisted detox
During detox, you will receive medical and emotional care. You may take medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Support staff will monitor your symptoms and maintain a safe, secure environment. You may also participate in holistic therapies and treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders.
Treatment
During a medicated assisted treatment program, you will follow a specialized treatment plan that includes:
- Individual counseling
- Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Medical supervision and support
- Support groups
- Relapse prevention education
- Family therapy
- Aftercare planning
- Nutrition support, mindfulness, yoga, art and music therapy, exercise, and other holistic treatments
Your rehab facility may offer several levels of care and types of treatment programs. The treatment you need depends on the severity of your addiction and other factors.
After completing a treatment program, you must make and follow an aftercare plan. This could include:
- Attending 12-step meetings
- Spending time in a sober living community
- Receiving regular mental health and medical treatment
- Counseling
- Joining an alumni group
Contact the team at the Mandala Healing Center to learn more about our Valium rehab programs. You may also schedule an intake assessment.