Recovery for Jason

[WebDevElijah]

Jason Bond's Benzo Success Story

Many members of the "Beating Benzos" group may have read my success story on platforms like BenzoBuddies or other support groups. For those who haven’t, here’s a summarized version of my journey:

Discovery and Dependence

In 2001, I was prescribed an SNRI antidepressant and benzodiazepines for stress-related issues. What started as a minor problem quickly spiraled into years of poly-drugging with SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines, leading to cycles of tolerance, withdrawal, and reinstatement.

The Journey Through Withdrawal

In May 2010, I was forced into a cold-turkey withdrawal after hospitalization. The resulting physical and mental symptoms were unbearable, including insomnia, pacing for 12+ hours a day, and intense akathisia. I was advised to reinstate and taper but found no relief. The taper only extended my suffering.

Symptoms

For 44 months, I endured severe symptoms, including insomnia, muscle tension, gastrointestinal issues, myoclonic jerks, tinnitus, and akathisia. Mentally, I struggled with intrusive thoughts, paranoia, deep depression, and suicidal ideation. Emotionally, I experienced overwhelming fear, doom, and despair. Despite rare "windows" of relief, the majority of this time was spent in unrelenting torment.

Healing and Recovery

At 26 months off, I began to heal. Over three weeks, my symptoms lifted, and I gradually returned to a sense of normalcy. By August 2013, I was fully healed.

Life After Recovery

Today, I’m 51 years old and thriving in my professional career. If I can heal from such a prolonged and severe withdrawal, so can you. Healing is possible—just keep holding on and doing the right things.

Message of Hope

The journey is incredibly hard, but "The Prize" is worth it. Stay alive, stay strong, and trust that your healing is on its way. You’re not alone in this.

"Your Prize awaits you, too. It’s coming."