#1.) Get Rehab for Xanax Addiction in NYC Metro Area
It may not surprise you that this is the first suggestion. But do you why? It’s simple. Xanax is a benzodiazepine. That makes it one of only three types of drugs that have potentially deadly withdrawal symptoms. The other two are alcohol and barbiturates. No matter what solution you choose for Xanax addiction, you must take the withdrawal seriously. This is not a drug you should ever attempt to detox yourself or someone else off.
Life-threatening seizures are a very real possibility. The good news is that Xanax detox in NYC and nearby areas is safe and effective. Even if you are unable to attend a full 28-30 day drug rehab in NYC, you must get a medically supervised detox. That is non-negotiable if you want to beat benzo dependence safely.
#2.) See an Outpatient Counselor or Therapist
Some people are unwilling to unable to commit to weeks of inpatient treatment for Xanax addiction. It’s understandable. They may worry about their career or family responsibilities. While the safest route is still a medical detox first, you could follow that up with outpatient counseling afterward. If you stop using after you are likely to have residual anxiety for a while afterward. A therapist or counselor can help you develop healthy coping skills for this. If symptoms still persist, a psychiatrist may prescribe you a non-narcotic medication for anxiety, such as Buspar, Vistaril or an SSRI like Zoloft.
If you have concerns about work but won’t help with Xanax addiction in NYC, you should be aware that the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) can protect your job, even while you attend an inpatient Xanax rehab for a month or more. This is necessary medical treatment. As long as you have a full-time job for a company for at least a year and that company employs at least 50 people within a 75-mile radius, then you can be eligible for FMLA protection. If you have questions about how to use the FMLA to help you get treatment for benzo addiction, give NYC Addiction Resources a call at (718) 208-4202.
#3.) Ask Your Prescribing Doctor for Help with Xanax Addiction
If you have been prescribed Xanax and not buying it off the street or acquiring more illegally, you might talk to the doctor who prescribes it to you. The doctor should be aware of any misuse of a controlled substance is taking place. But you should bear in mind that different doctors have different responses to this news. It may be helpful if you have a plan for treatment ready to go when you speak to your doctor. That way there is no risk of you being cut off “cold turkey” with no arrangements for a safe medical detox and treatment set-up.
While most doctors are responsible enough not to simply cut a patient off from benzodiazepines without a detox plan in place, it has happened. Consider talking to NYC Addiction Resources or a similar organization to make a safe detox plan for yourself to protect your interests and safety.
Here are some signs you may have a prescription Xanax addiction:
- Running out of your prescription more than 24-48 hours before you can refill it.
- Taking more Xanax than the directions on the bottle specify.
- Excessive drowsiness during the day.
- Withdrawal symptoms when the medication wears off or you run out early.
#4.) Develop a Plan with Your Family and Loved Ones
Getting honest is a crucial part of recovery. If you want to overcome Xanax dependence, you’re going to have to come clean with the people who love you and with the professionals who can help. The first thing to know is there should be no shame in this. Very much the opposite, it takes courage! When the truth is out, work with your loved ones to put a plan together. A solid Xanax addiction recovery plan should include these elements:
- Safe, medically supervised detox.
- Partial hospitalization for benzo dependence.
- Intensive outpatient treatment for Xanax addiction in NYC.
- Consistent 12-step meeting attendance and/or weekly counseling
- Find a sponsor, mentor or recovery coach.
- Setting goals for life and recovery. This can also include career or education goals.
- Build a sober support network of friends and companions in recovery.
Into Action
NYC Addiction Resources is here to help. Whether you or your loved one is living with Xanax addiction, we understand the struggle. You aren’t alone, we have helped hundreds of people just like you. Let us make the path forward a little clearer by explaining options, verifying insurance benefits and making your choices a bit simpler to make. Navigating the addiction treatment landscape can be a challenge, we know. We’ve been there and we know the way through and how to get people the help they are looking for. Contact NYC Addiction Resources today at (718) 208-4202. We’re ready and able to help you, but you have to make the first move.
