Compassionate, Professional Outpatient Support for Long-Term Recovery
Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders, but long-term use or misuse can lead to dangerous dependency. At Lanier Recovery Center, we provide ethical, evidence-based outpatient care in Atlanta designed to help clients safely withdraw from benzodiazepines and build the skills needed for lifelong recovery. Our clinical team works closely with each client to create a personalized plan grounded in integrity, empathy, and lasting change.
What Are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines (benzos) are a class of central nervous system depressants prescribed to reduce anxiety, treat insomnia, and manage seizures. Common benzodiazepines include Xanax (alprazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), and Valium (diazepam).
When used as prescribed, benzos can be effective short-term treatments. However, prolonged use or taking higher doses than recommended can lead to dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms—making it difficult to stop without professional help.
The Effects of Benzodiazepines on the Brain and Body
Short-term effects:
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Drowsiness and sedation
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Muscle relaxation
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Slowed reaction time
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Relief from anxiety and panic
Long-term effects and risks:
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Memory loss and cognitive impairment
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Emotional numbness or depression
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Increased risk of falls and injury
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Paradoxical anxiety or agitation
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Physical and psychological dependence
Suddenly stopping benzos can result in severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, hallucinations, and panic attacks. Tapering under medical supervision is often required.
Understanding Benzodiazepine Addiction
Many people begin using benzodiazepines with a valid prescription. Over time, their body becomes dependent, and they may begin taking larger doses or combining benzos with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids, increasing the risk of overdose.
Signs of benzodiazepine addiction:
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Taking benzos more often or in higher doses than prescribed
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Doctor shopping or illegal purchases
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Difficulty functioning without the drug
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Withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop
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Memory issues or blackouts
Benzodiazepine Use Statistics
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Over 12.5% of U.S. adults have used benzodiazepines in the past year.
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2.2% report misusing them—often for stress or sleep.
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Emergency room visits involving benzos rose by 300% from 2004 to 2011.
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In over 16% of opioid overdose deaths, benzodiazepines were also involved.
Daily Challenges of Benzodiazepine Dependence
The impacts of benzo addiction often unfold quietly, including:
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Relying on pills just to get through the day
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Increasing anxiety or rebound insomnia between doses
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Missing appointments or work due to sedation or forgetfulness
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Emotional detachment or difficulty expressing feelings
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Isolation and fear of running out of medication
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Risk of dangerous combinations with alcohol or opioids
These struggles erode self-confidence and create dangerous patterns that are difficult to break alone.
How We Treat Benzodiazepine Addiction at Lanier Recovery Center
Our outpatient treatment model provides high-quality care with flexibility and discretion. We offer structured, step-down support based on each client’s unique situation.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our PHP offers full-day programming with medical oversight, group therapy, and individual counseling. It’s ideal for clients tapering off benzodiazepines or managing co-occurring mental health conditions.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOP offers structured support 3–5 times per week. It includes behavioral therapy, medication monitoring, and relapse prevention while allowing for work or school.
Outpatient Program (OP)
OP includes weekly therapy and case management for individuals transitioning out of higher levels of care or maintaining long-term recovery.
Our treatment approach includes:
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
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Individual and group therapy
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Trauma-informed care
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Dual diagnosis treatment
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Medication-assisted tapering and management
Why Choose Lanier Recovery Center?
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Expert-led tapering support with a focus on client safety
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Individualized treatment plans built on integrity and trust
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Evidence-based therapies tailored to each stage of recovery
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Strong community connection to replace isolation with support
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Ongoing care coordination to help you reclaim your life
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I detox from benzos at home?
Due to the risk of seizures and severe anxiety, unsupervised detox is not recommended. We assess each case and refer to safe medical detox facilities if needed.
How long does tapering take?
Tapering schedules vary, but we typically recommend a gradual approach over several weeks or months to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We work with most insurance providers and can verify your benefits quickly.
Is benzo treatment confidential?
Absolutely. Your privacy is protected throughout the treatment process.
Start Healing Today
You don’t have to live in fear or dependence. With compassionate support and clinical expertise, recovery from benzodiazepine addiction is possible. Contact Lanier Recovery Center in Atlanta today to begin a personalized plan for healing and stability.
