One Year Off by Jackie Petro Hamilton

[WebDevElijah]

Finally! My 1-year anniversary off benzos! I am doing really well. I took 1mg Lorazepam for 8 years for sleep (as prescribed) until I started getting chronically sick. I went to multiple specialists who found nothing wrong. Then I ran out of pills while away from home, and all hell broke loose. That’s when I realized what was causing havoc in my body. I reinstated and desperately searched for help, eventually finding this wonderful group.

With the help of David Jones, I water tapered. I was astonished at how many withdrawal symptoms I experienced from what I thought was a “small dose.” It was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but every moment was completely worth it to get to this point. I honestly feel better than I have in many years. I know we all heal at our own pace, but I believe with all my heart that we all heal from this.

I wanted to share a few things that helped me. I hope they can help you too:

 

1. I educated myself about tapering, symptoms, and healing to reduce scary surprises. I also shared this information with my husband, who lived through this with me. Knowledge gave me strength and resolve.
    
2. Sleep or rest is critical for healing. So many good things happen during our sleep stages. If I couldn’t sleep, I would rest as best I could. It all helps.
3. I drank a lot of water. Staying hydrated is critical for the brain and body.
    
4. Moving my body was important. I let my body guide me. Walks helped me feel better, but biking revved me up and made me feel worse. Over time, I gradually increased my activities and now have no limitations.
    
5. I didn’t let my symptoms convince me I wouldn’t heal. The central nervous system needs time to rebalance itself, and it will in due time.
    
6. I kept a healthy diet and quit all alcohol. I also avoided additional medications, as they might interfere with my body’s work toward homeostasis.
    
7. I learned not to fear my symptoms. This was easier said than done, but I faced them bit by bit, breathing into each one, letting them just be there, and reminding myself they would pass and not harm me. Over time, they lost their power.
    
8. When I had setbacks, I reminded myself they are part of the brain readjusting and healing. Waves are always followed by longer and longer windows.
    
9. I didn’t tempt myself with things harmful to healing. Even though I feel better now, I continue to live as healthily as possible. I’ve come too far to risk compromising my progress.
    
10. None of us are alone in this. Thousands of people are going through it and healing. We are stronger than we think. The fact that we are here shows how brave and strong we truly are.
     

My prayers are with you all. Much love and big virtual hugs to my fellow warriors. You are brave, you are strong, and you CAN do this.