Valium was and still is a commonly prescribed drug. When used correctly it can calm nerves, relax muscles, and even provide relief from seizures. Surprisingly, Valium is very effective in treatment the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, including the “DTs” (uncontrollable shaking), hallucinations, and the severe agitation that is associated with alcohol withdrawal.
However, like any other prescription drug, Valium can become addictive. In fact, it has been determined that many people who show signs of mental illness or mental disorder are actually suffering from Valium addiction. Once rehabilitation occurs, however, many people who were thought to be mentally impaired in some way are actually able to live normal lives.
Treatment for Valium addiction is slightly different than that for other prescription medications. The person who is addicted to Valium, especially one who is taking it in extremely high dosages, may experience more serious withdrawal symptoms than with other drugs.
Because of this, it is sometimes necessary for a person addicted to Valium to actually go through a detoxification process before rehabilitation can begin. If this is the case, it is very advisable that the patient enter a drug treatment program initially as an inpatient so that he or she can receive physical care during the detoxification stage.
Once detoxification has been achieved, the patient may be able to continue the drug treatment program on an outpatient patient. During this time, group therapy, individual counseling, and other support will be given so that the Valium addiction will not re-occur.
It is hoped that a health care professional will recognize the symptoms of valium addiction, stop prescribing the drug, and recommend treatment for the addiction. If this does not occur, there are drug addiction recovery programs in Indiana that can help. Referral by a physician is not necessary to begin taking advantage of these programs.
Please call 1-800-559-9503 or visit our website at http://www.drugaddictionrecovery.net. Loved ones who do may be surprised to learn that the person whom they perceived to be mentally unstable was actually in the throes of Valium addiction, and we can help turn that person’s life around.
