Podcasts about lunesta

 You're at the end of your rope, so you head to the pharmacy for the help you so desperately need to sleep. But wait, you aren't sure if it's safe, if it works, and if there's a better way.  Stay tuned to learn about the benefits, side effects, and risk of sleep aids.   I'm Dr.Vickie Petz Kasper. If you're ready to take control of your health, you're in the right  place. I'll give you practical steps to start your own journey toward better health because healthy looks great on you.  This is episode 159, Sleeping Pills and Potions. What works and what doesn't. You know that poor sleep is associated with heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, immune dysfunction, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression, fatigue, irritability, and good grief, I could go on and on. So, taking something to help you sleep sounds like a good idea, right?  Today, we'll discuss what you need to know before you go and get a prescription, supplement, or over the counter sleeping aid. Look, we have to sleep. Our very lives and health depend on it. But the struggle is real. Insomnia is one of the most common symptoms people go to the doctor or health care provider for treatment.   And what if I told you that good sleep is possible without medications? Well, it is. In fact, the first line treatment recommended to treat insomnia is not medication. The standard recommendation for managing insomnia is to eliminate things that go bump in the night and keep you awake.  Or, to treat underlying diseases that disrupt sleep. It's not recommended to start with behavioral therapy or medications until these other things are maximized. Ha! But good luck with that. If you go to your primary care provider and you don't get a prescription, I'll buy you a cup of coffee and we can both stay awake.  And, if you think you need to see a specialist, then you'll probably get to spend the night in a sleep lab hotel hooked up to a bunch of wires and you may get answers, like, a CPAP, and that's important if you have sleep apnea, but if not, you might not even hear from them. No wonder you're looking for a good solution to sleep.  And though medications are not the first line recommendation, that is the topic of today's episode. So let's get to it. We're going to start with prescription medications, then we'll talk about over the counter medications and wrap up with supplements.  There are three classes of drugs approved to treat insomnia. Benzodiazepine receptor agonist, histamine receptor antagonist, and melatonin receptor agonist. Listening to all that medical jargon may be sufficient to put you to sleep. But wait, let me explain. You'll understand more after we go to mini medical school today and learn about receptors.  These are made up of proteins and they receive chemical signals that produce a response.  Let me give you this analogy. You've got a lamp sitting on an end table, but it's not plugged in, so there's no light. And when you stick those two prongs into the socket, behold, now you can sit and read. And that's kind of how a receptor works. The plug fits into the plug in. So an agonist is like the plug. It fits. It turns it on. It lets the electricity flow.  But, if you had a toddler in the house, you might want to plug in one of those little plastic things so he doesn't stick a butter knife in there and get shocked. So that would be an antagonist.  Okay, now wake up and pay attention. We've got three classes of drugs to look at. Benzo receptor agonist and melatonin agonist. That plug in and histamine receptor antagonist that block the plugin. And then there's another category called other. We'll just call that the clapper, you know, clap, clap. And the light comes on, clap, clap, and the light goes off.  There are eight drugs in the benzodiazepine receptor agonist family. And the first five are about my age, you know, born in the 60s. They are Estazolam, which is Prosom, Florazepam, which is Dalmane, Quamazepam, which is Doral, Temazepam, which is Restoril and Triazolam, which is Halcion. Now the millennials aren't benzos, but they're still benzo receptor agonist. And you know, this generation got way more complicated spelling their kids' names, so I'm probably gonna have to sound them out like a first grade teacher on the first day of school.  Eszopiclone is Lunesta, Zaleplon is Sonata. Zolpidem is Ambien.  Those older drugs are crankier and cause more dependence although Restoril is the nicest in the category. There are other benzos which are technically prescribed for anxiety and  some people do use them to help them sleep. Do they work? Here's what the data says for the old guys. They help you fall asleep faster. A whole whopping 10 minutes faster. And they increase total sleep time by half an hour to an hour. That's it.  What about risk? Well, they make you sleepy, which is kind of the point, but also they can make you dizzy, which can make you fall if you get up and go to the bathroom during the night. And if you mix them with opioids, the reaction can be fatal.   Now, the younger guys function about as well as the older ones, but they have shorter half lives, so their effects don't wear out their welcome so much with daytime grogginess. And they aren't so deadly when socializing with opioids. But rarely, they do some bizarre things like compel you to shop or gamble in the middle of the night. All for 10 minutes faster to go to sleep and half hour to an hour longer sleeping.  Okay, clap on, clap off, let's talk about the other drugs.  These are dual orexin receptor antagonists.  Affectionately known as D O R A or Dora.  The first one is Suvarexant, which is called Belsomra. The next one is Derodorexant, which sounds a lot like deodorant to me, and that's exactly what I'm gonna call it because the brand name is Quviviq. And finally, there is Limboxerant, which has a really cool brand name, Dayvigo.  What? You've never heard of any of these? Well, that's probably because they're slightly less effective than the other drugs. They help you go to sleep seven minutes faster. But the main side effect is sleepiness, and people generally say they slept better. The next topic in pharmacology class in mini medical school is the histamine antagonist. You know, the little plastic thing that goes in the wall socket so your toddler doesn't.  Doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant that functions this way, and even in low doses it causes the desirable effect of drowsiness. So, it's approved for the treatment of drowsiness deficit.  Unfortunately, there are some drugs it doesn't play nice with. But, it does increase sleep time by Drum roll please! 25 to 30 minutes. Womp, womp, womp. And, it helps people stay asleep toward the end of the sleep cycle.    And I think this underscores why one size does not fit all and prescriptions should be customized for individual needs.  The last class of drugs approved for the treatment of insomnia makes a lot of sense.  Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist and the brand name Rosarem, get it? REM, R E M, as in rapid eye movement sleep. It's got a good mechanism of action, a good name. Problem is, it doesn't work any better than placebo. So, you can skip the potential for fatigue, nausea, and worsening of liver disease and just take a sugar pill.  So, am I saying it doesn't work at all? Of course not. Why would it be approved if it didn't work? Well, it's not in Europe, but it does work to lengthen sleep time by a grand total of seven minutes. And I don't know about you, but it's going to take more than seven minutes to get rid of the bags under these eyes.  So that's the gamut of drugs approved for the treatment of insomnia in the United States. But wait, there's more. Just because the FDA doesn't approve something for a particular indication, that doesn't mean that doctors can't prescribe it. And sometimes, off label prescribing is a really good thing, though it's a set up for a knock down, drag out fight with your insurance company for coverage. In addition to using the antidepressant Doxepin, many doctors prescribe other antidepressants for sleep. Things like Amitriptyline and Trazodone, even though the American Academy of Sleep Medicine advises against it because of side effects and no data showing that it works. Now, I always recommend that you consult with your health care provider regarding your medications. Always, always, always.  But, I also recommend that they consult with up to date society recommendations and guidelines. That's just fair. And while they're at it, they should look at the potential adverse reactions. So, now maybe you've decided to skip the copay and just help yourself to the sleep aid aisle of the pharmacy. You could even ask the pharmacist to guide you, and I recommend that. There are two over the counter medications approved to treat insomnia. They are diphenhydramine, commonly known as Benadryl, and doxalamine, commonly known as Unisom. Side note, over the counter medications are regulated  FDA, And both of these drugs are histamine blockers. Therefore, all of the fun side effects that come with that, like dry mouth, GI distress, dizziness, trouble emptying your bladder, and of course, sedation, which is the desired side effect. These medications are often combined with things like Advil or Tylenol with an added P. M. at the end, so you know what's in store for you. And here's what's in store for diphenhydramine. 8 less minutes to fall asleep and 12 more minutes of sleep. And for doxylamine, there's no data available. That's it. That's what we've got. So, maybe now you've decided just to take matters into your own hands and look for a supplement. And because you've listened to my previous podcast episode about dementia, you're gonna skip right over the Prevagen, right? Promise me. Now, in the supplement section, you're going to walk in understanding that claims, concentrations, and ingredients are not guaranteed. They're not regulated. They are, generally speaking, considered safe and ineffective. You heard that right. Safe. And ineffective. But what about melatonin? You swear it works, but does it?  Maybe. It is sedating in about 10 percent of people and in everyone else, it shifts the sleep phase. So, there is a place for that such as jet lag, and I have an episode on jet lag in the show notes.  But even though it may help you drift off to sleep, it probably isn't going to help you stay asleep. The half life is less than an hour, and in some people it causes stomach cramps, irritability, and even depression. It's best used in combination with other things that regulate your circadian rhythm. More to come on that. But a big one is light. And so this probably would be a great time to tell you about some exciting news I have for you. I have an upcoming series of live webinars to talk about six hidden things that keep you tossing and turning at night.   And soon you'll have access to an online course called Unlock the Secret to Sleep, your personal sleep solution. I have been working so hard on this for so long that I cannot wait to share it with you.  I want to help you reset your sleep and get your Z's. Now there are other supplements labeled as sleep aids and most of them again are safe and probably not effective. The exceptions on safety are kava and valerian root. Both of those have been associated with liver damage. Now it's rare, but it's very serious. Other things you might find on this aisle are chamomile, Glycine, Gryphonia, Hops,  , Kava, L theanine, Lavender, , Passionflower, Nightshade, Skullcap, Strymonium, Tryptophan, , and Wild Jujube Seeds.  They're all equally effective and work every bit as well as a sugar pill, but hey, sugar pills can have powerful placebo effects. And one last thing I want to mention, and that is cannabis. Bottom line is there's not enough research to say one way or another, whether it works. It does have the potential for addiction and it's not legal everywhere. So there's that.  But also it's a problem that if you quit, you'll likely experience sleep disturbances that can last for several months.     The bottom line is, I want you to know that you shouldn't have to choose between serious health consequences of poor sleep and the side effects and risk of sleeping pills and potions.  If you suffer from insomnia, I do encourage you not to stop any medications without medical supervision and to have an honest conversation with your doctor. And if they want access to my resources, just give them my email address. I'm happy to share and they're 100 percent legit, but if good sleep eludes you, I want you to know while there's no magic pill for perfect sleep, there is a proven path to natural, restorative rest that can transform your life. Imagine waking up energized, focused, and ready to tackle your day without relying on sleeping pills or potions.  Are you tired of tossing and turning at night? Desperately wishing for deep, restful sleep?  I'm hosting two exclusive live webinars where I'll share my evidence based approach to achieving consistent quality sleep. Join me on March 3rd or March 5th to discover how to fall asleep naturally. and wake up refreshed, practical strategies to boost your energy and mental clarity, and solutions to common sleep challenges that keep you awake at night.  Plus you'll get a chance to ask your most pressing sleep questions during a live Q& A session. So don't miss this opportunity. To revolutionize your sleep. Click the link in the show notes to save your spot now. Registration is required. And make sure you're on my email list to receive exclusive pre webinar insights and special bonuses. Your journey to better sleep starts here. Sign up right now and let's transform your nights and supercharge your days.  Because good sleep is crucial for good health and healthy looks great on you.   RESOURCES: FREE, live sleep masterclass registration Jet Lag Does Prevagen work? Why doctors prescribe a pill Meet Aunt Edna - Your holiday survival stress guide

Matt Walker welcomes Dr. Ranji Varghese to the podcast this week for an in-depth conversation about sleep and prescription sleeping pills. A psychiatrist specializing in sleep medicine, Dr. Varghese begins by discussing his entry into the field which was sparked by a fascination with sleep and wake circadian rhythms. He goes on to highlight the Minnesota Regional Sleep Disorder Center's focus on parasomnias, particularly REM Sleep Behavior Disorder, emphasizing the intersection of neuroscience, physiology, and psychology in sleep medicine.As you will hear, sleeping pills, prescribed to initiate or maintain sleep, are typically used as a last resort for insomnia after other treatments fail. Dr. Varghese explains they work by modulating brain activity, often targeting neurotransmitters like GABA or melatonin receptors. He details two main classes: benzodiazepines (like Restoril and Ativan) and non-benzodiazepines (Z-drugs like Ambien and Lunesta), outlining their mechanisms, benefits, and risks. His powerful personal anecdote and the discussion of complex sleep-related behaviors underscore the critical need for careful consideration and informed decision-making when using these medications.Please note that Matt is not a medical doctor, and none of the content in this podcast should be considered medical advice in any way, shape, or form, nor prescriptive in any way.Long-time show sponsor LMNT is Matt Walker's go-to for a sugar-free electrolyte mix. With the perfect electrolyte balance and science-backed formulation, LMNT is a product Matt trusts daily, adding it to his workouts and protein shakes. And now, for a seasonal twist, their Chocolate Medley range is back with flavors like Chocolate Mint and Matt's favorite, Chocolate Raspberry. Get a free sample pack with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/mattwalker—just use his link to try it yourself!Another great sponsor of the show is AG1, a comprehensive nutritional drink trusted by thousands worldwide, including Matt! For nearly four years and counting, he has relied on AG1 to fuel his post-workout routine with its powerhouse blend of over 75 essential minerals, vitamins, probiotics, and prebiotics, meticulously crafted to support your daily nutritional needs. AG1 is registered and approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, boasting GMP badges for quality assurance. As a special offer for our listeners, when you try AG1, you'll receive a complimentary one-year supply of both Vitamin D and K2, and with your first subscription, you'll also receive five free AG1 travel packs! Visit AG1 to explore AG1's range of offerings and claim your exclusive offer.As always, if you have thoughts or feedback you'd like to share, please reach out to Matt on Instagram.Matt: Instagram @drmattwalker or on X @sleepdiplomatConnect with Dr. Varghese:Instagram: @docvargheseX: @docvargheseMinnesota Regional Sleep Disorders Center:https://www.hennepinhealthcare.org/specialty/minnesota-regional-sleep-disorders-center/IIT-MN: https://iit-mn.com/

The American, no, GLOBAL treasure joins us from rural Pennsylvania where he is starring as Dr. Frank in The Rocky Horror Show to talk Sunset Blvd., Mamma Mia, the Charli XCX Sweat Tour, the Sympathy is a Knife remix, Halloween Horror Nights done right, kicking Lunesta, getting sober, learning from a throuple, meeting a man on line dance night and marrying him on Star Wars Day, watching Big Brother as an alumnus, and why it's actually important to call Twitter “X” now. Don't dream it, be it; see Frankie in Rocky Horror at the Bucks County Playhouse until November 3: https://bcptheater.org/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/. 

In this episode, Charlie, a non-binary sci-fi fantasy writer, together with their husband Brian, discusses the concept of harvesting imagination and light in accordance with the Via Creativa. They delve into the cyclical nature of creativity, emphasizing the importance of practical spirituality, the interplay between light and darkness, and the necessity of sharing one's creative output. They also reflect on the profound role hope plays as an act of creative will, particularly in challenging times.Support us on: https://ko-fi.com/cedorsettBecome a patron of the arts patreon.com/cedorsettFor Educational Resource: Wisdoms Cry https://wisdomscry.comFor all of the things we are doing at The Seraphic Grove go to Creation's Paths https://www.creationspaths.com/BlueSky https://bsky.app/profile/creationspaths.comThreads https://www.threads.net/@creationspathsInstagram https://www.instagram.com/creationspaths/Transcript:Charlie- New: [00:00:00] On this first quarter moon after Lunesta, we turn our minds to the Via Creativa to the creative way. And start asking ourselves, how can we harvest imagination and light? What. Imagination Are we harvesting in the season? intro Hello everyone. My name is Charlie and I am a non-binary scifi fantasy writer. I'm joined by my wonderful husband, Brian. Brian - New: Hello. Charlie- New: Today we're going to be talking about harvesting imagination and light. Because we are at our first fruits festival Lunesta, we are. Focusing on this harvesting image, especially as we're here, harvesting those first fruits, those first little inklings. That are coming up [00:01:00] on the fields. How can we bring that in? How can we have more of that in our life? I think a lot of us really need more imagination in our life . I used the word light. A lot. I've always used light in terms of God, in the beginning was the word and the word was with God. And the word was God. And the same was in the beginning with God and without him, nothing would have been made that was made. And in him was light. And the light was the life of humanity. . That beautiful prologue to the gospel of John and so light. And diety are forever joined in my brain. Even more than that right now, as it feels like we're going through such dark times with. The riots that are going on in Britain and the wars around the world. And. The economy and the weather and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and. I think we need to be. Mindful about looking for those places where we can find a [00:02:00] light. Where we can find hope. Where we can find. Whatever it is that pierces the darkness. And brings us to the other side. For the new moon we talked about entering that darkness and harvesting peace. Today. As we're entering this. Time where we're focused on the Via Creativa, the creative way. Answering that question for ourselves in our own lives. How do you find. imagination. How do you find light? And I do mean how not where, but how, because I think we need to be practical. We can be all mystical and metaphysical, and I can use all manner of metaphors here about where and all thats not going to help anyone. I. Have a very strong bias that mysticism. Spirituality needs to be practical. It needs to be. Rooted down in our bones in a very practical, honest, and straightforward way. Let's start with a brief recap of the Via Creativa. [00:03:00] Because. There's a quality that it has that. Often gets missed in people. When Matthew Fox talks about the Via Creativa. He says that it is born from the union of path one and path two. Of that via positive, and via negativa in that. Cosmic hospitality. And that letting go and letting be, and that welcoming in and letting go. That it's in the union. Of these two that the Via Creativa the creative way. Comes forth. I think it's really important for us. To hold that in our minds, when we're thinking about the creative way. Because. Creativity really is about welcoming in the ideas. I think we focus on that a lot. I'm waiting for inspiration. I am waiting for the muse to sing to me and to tell me the things that I should be making. We don't want to think about the other side of that. That's the letting it go or we let the letting it go [00:04:00] terrify us. Well, I've written this thing. Why should I publish it? I've made the song. Why should I sing it in front of somebody else? I've made this food. What if nobody else likes it? I made this. Knitwear crochet where thing. What will people say? If I wear it in public, maybe I'll just wear it around the house. We put these paralyzing. Roadblocks. Between us. Really letting our imagination and our creativity flourish. That's why. seeing creativity is arising from that hospitality, that davar, that divine word. Coming into us. . That willingness to let go and let be. You really have to do both things to be creative. The via creativity. We're told that this is the place where we learn to give birth to God that we are. Where this is the place for goddess as much mother. As child. Both of those images. Have that welcoming, gracious, Via Positiva energy to them. They [00:05:00] also have that letting go energy. a, mother has to let their child go to go out into the world. A child has to let go of the family to go out into the world. And all of our creative endeavors do as well. More than anything right now. In this time in this place, I think the greatest creativity that we're called to. Is hope. Because hope really is a creative act. Hope isn't. An emotion as much as people want it to be. Yeah. We can feel hopeful. It creates a sensation in us when we have it. Brian - New: The emotion is more, the joy. That the hope brings. When you really break it down, In itself is not the emotion. It brings joy. It brings happiness.Charlie- New: It really is born from the joy that's born, that we're feeling. We confuse it for an emotion. It's kind of like how we think compassion is an emotion. No, we feel loving kindness. We feel that loving [00:06:00] sensation within us, but compassion it's self is a mental act. It is an act of choice. If I can use the big words that I like to use, it's a volitional act. It's an act of our will. Hope is very much an act of will. It's not. A pie in the sky dream. I think too many people. Allow hope. Too. Be that thing that's just out of reach. To be that thing that's just beyond us. I know it's probably not going to happen, but I have hope. That's a platitude. That's not really hopeless. Brian - New: Once again, it's without works. Charlie- New: Yeah. Brian - New: When said. In that manner. It is said without the intention of doing anything, it's more of, this is an excuse. For the situation rather than. Normally when it's actual hope. When you say you have hoping you mean it. There is. Intention behind it. Charlie- New: It's the one thing that we say a lot. We go back to this faith without works is dead. That [00:07:00] really is core to everything. , if you get nothing out of any of the other spiritual ideas that we put forward, if you can just latch onto that faith without works is dead idea. We'll be so much better off. Then most people that are. Trying to find a spiritual path because that's really the core, the heart of all of it. As we discussed in the via negativa. On the new moon. That harvesting piece is that active? Portion. That we're engaging it. In. That place of darkness. In the Via Creativa in this creative path. There is this instinct, this urge to say that the action here is to create something. To make a sculpture, make a painting, write a poem, write a story. Tell a story. Cook a meal, bake some bread, there's this very. Literal understanding of being creative. I don't want to discourage that. I don't want to discourage that in [00:08:00] any way. If that's where your heart is. If that's where you're feeling called and moved. Do that. We need to expand our understanding of creativity. To other aspects. Of our lives, our creative projects in and of themselves. Maybe that creativity is I'm going to go walk in this other place that I normally don't walk. maybe that creativity is finding a new restaurant to go hang out at. Finding a new cafe. Finding a new way to find a new artist to listen to. Or a new book to read. Creativity comes in a lot of shapes and sizes. It's not just our creative output. I think this content culture that has developed alongside influencer culture has gotten us to think of. Creativity as having a necessary output. Brian - New: An exercise. I found very helpful. Getting a deeper understanding. Of the creative. Process. Especially in regard to imagination. Was when I thought [00:09:00] about. Cleaning a room. The simple act of cleaning, via Positiva, via negativa, we're in the actual act of cleaning the space. Adding pretty things and removing ugly things out or the detritus. However you want to word it. it was adding and removing. It was enjoying the a And wonder of it. Then those two are married. The creative process. Actually came next. It is when I sat back. . alow. Others to experience that space. I had just been cleaned. I shared it. I observed, I watched how that space was used, how it was enjoyed or not enjoyed. I watched for the gratitude. It's always nice for someone to appreciate it, but there wasn't an expectation of that. There was no attachment to having to have someone say, oh, thank you for [00:10:00] cleaning this room. That was not there because that's not part of that creative imagination. What was part of that observation was watching to see the natural flow of the space. How did everybody use the cleaned room? Then that carries over into the via transformative as we'll go into later in the month. In this exercise that then allowed me to re-imagine. Small aspects of that space to how is it better used? How are others using it? How has it impacted? It was that creative imagination that allowed me to rethink. The entire room. Realizing sometimes I put artificial structures in, when I cleaned, sometimes I put a piece of furniture in a place that blocks the flow. Uh, some of those you get into when doing . Charlie- New: feng shui Brian - New: feng shui. In a space. It's sitting down and it, that is that creative [00:11:00] imagination. . And the creative process . On how is that space? Actually supposed to be because clean doesn't mean free of dirt. There may be. Flowers or plants that need to be added to give life to the space. It may be light needs to be added to brighten it. It may be too much light and maybe too many plans. You may need less, but it's just that. Taking that moment. To just be in the moment. Watch how it is. Interacted with and imagining. Which is pure creativity. Just imagining. How it could be better. Charlie- New: I've often said that the first two paths, the Via Positiva and via. Negativa. are internal. They're looking at they're inviting in their internal work. For the most part they are. And this other two, the paths three and four, the Via Creativa and via transformativa, Our outward paths. Whereas. [00:12:00] In the Via Positiva, we are welcoming it. We're. Allowing that divine word to come into us. We're practicing cosmetic. Hospitality. And learning that hospitality is earthiness and bringing all of those good things in whether they're into our hearts, into our lives, into our homes. Whether it's doing the internal work on ourselves. That is done on that path. In the Via Creativa. This is the turning outward. This is the moving out. I don't personally. Believe that creativity can happen within. Creativity. Requires some form of external action. Whether that's just practicing body prayer. That you were praying internally. Just holding it all inside and now you're adding gestures and ritualizing your prayer in that way. Whether that's learning to seam with your own voice for dance. In the moment. [00:13:00] Or all of the other creative acts that come out. The Via Creativa. Is an outpouring. We've welcomed everything in the Via Positiva, We've learned what we need to let go and let be in the via negativa and now we're allowing it to flow through us. We are becoming a channel, a conduit. We are part of that flow. Now. There is that. need to share. That can be as simple as telling another person about a thing. You don't have to publish your work to the whole wide world. Don't ever think that's what I'm saying. When I say. Share your stories or share your music or what have you. You don't have to start a bakery to share your baked goods. It is good to share them. That could be as simple as if you live in a very rural place. Maybe. Bake something special for your dog. There are a lot of really nifty dog foods that you can make that require a lot of creativity. And I say that to somebody, like I grew up very rural. Remember when it was [00:14:00] just me and my dog. Right around right. I didn't have any friends that lived close by. That was always an event when you would go. And actually visit other people because they live so far away. If that's your case. Share with the birds. Go outside and tell the birds your stories. Tell the birds. Tell them to the wind, tell them to the trees. To me, that's just as valid. Whether or not you experienced the spirit of that tree, the spirit of those birds. Community with you or not. You're still sharing. You're still taking that step. To speak to something outside yourself to. Cher. With things outside of yourself. And that is just vitally important. This is a place where we're getting in touch with our creativity, with our imagination. With that light. That ever shines within us. a while back. I did a piece where I talked to you about the idea that we live. In the Zelle [00:15:00] Shaddai we live in the shadow of the almighty. And what that means. This image of all creation is God dancing before God. The shadow that's cast into the void in between. Is what makes our world. That we are all living in the shadow of the almighty. how are you casting your shadow? How are you sharing your light? That's what the Via Creativa is about, is learning to. Interact with that play between light and shadow. To bring it in and let it flow through you. Jesus used a lot of light analogies for us. We are to be the shining city on a hill that. Who should let the light of our eyes shine out that we shouldn't put our light under a bushel. ? He used these light images a lot. That's because light. Like creativity. Can't be contained. Hope like creativity. Can not be contained. It has to be free. It can be [00:16:00] blocked. That's a very different thing than containing it. Brian - New: Even then light gets creative. Have it just travels in one direction. And then once it's blocked, it gets creative and goes in another direction. , there's the simple trick has hold a mirror up and you can see the beam of light somewhere else because it reflects, and it doesn't just reflect off the first time it gets blocked and reflects. Sometimes it can even amplify. Slightly as it reflects because it starts reflecting off multiple places. Charlie- New: Why is the sky blue? Brian - New: That's reflecting off the ocean. Charlie- New: No, actually, it's the refracting light. Brian - New: Oh, yeah. Charlie- New: The way the light hits the atmosphere, it bends and shakes, and the blue light scatters. It just scatters. So much that we see it. And the other light makes it down to us. The light that feeds our plants is actually red light. The plants are green because there's too much green light. They need to reflect that light back so they don't get burned. So they're green because they're reflecting that green [00:17:00] light. So they don't get burned by it. But the green light. Isn't what nourishes them. If you've ever worked with grow lights, if you've done any you'll notice that they're very red. And the reason for that is not because, oh, didn't that? Cool. It's just that those are the wavelengths of light. The plant actually needs. There's no point in generating wasting the energy to generate green light. Which is there in the white light, all along. Because the plant will just reflect that back. It doesn't need it. It doesn't want it. It's too much of it. And that right there. If you think about it. Is what we're talking about, hearing that Via Creativa Via Positiva, via negativa balance. It's letting in. Inviting in that path one. The red light. Letting go of reflecting via negativa path to the green light. So that it can Via Creativa path three, grow. And make all of those beautiful leaves and flowers. And everything else. That's why we have such [00:18:00] a variety in plants. When you see a plant that has kind of reddish leaves. Oh, It's wanting that red light. It doesn't want that red light anymore. It's reflecting that back. That's powerful idea. It's one that's so subtle. We don't think about it. Cause it's all around us. You look up the window. And you see. Green grass. Or a tree leaf. Or something and you see that green and you just it's great. There's so much. In the meaning of that green leaf. That's the power of the via creative and taking this time. That we do. To meditate on it, whether it's just on the first quarter moon. I tend to focus on the Via Creativa in the time period between the main moon phases. So between now and the full moon. That's the. Monthly cycle of the Via Creativa for me, I take that time to meditate on the third path. To think about all of those. I guess you could call them hidden messages. That are out there. That aren't really hidden. They're just, and again, a repeated theme that we keep going to, we just don't notice [00:19:00] them. Brian - New: Yeah. There's subtle. Very, still small whispered voice. And they allowed room. Full of conversation. Charlie- New: Because we need hope right now. We need creativity right now. We need. To live. Right now. It's so hard in this late stage capitalist world that we live in. To find those moments of joy. And peace. And lightness, not just light, but lightness. We feel so burdened so heavy. And yeah, I could use as a platitude, right. That wonderful quote from Jesus. Come to me all who are weary and heavy Laden and take my burden upon you. For a disliked. Yeah. I remember as a child seen that wonderful him cast your cares upon Jesus. Right? I remember seeing that when I was a kid. And it sounds. So simple. But it is one of the hardest things to do. One, it requires us to. Use our creative mind. [00:20:00] To understand what we need to hold onto and what we need to let go of. This is where creative, the via creativa or the third path. It looks back at the two that came before it. . also looks forward, what things need changing. That's what we're going to be talking about. When the full moon comes about. What are we changing? What needs change? what needs transformation and celebration brought to it? So here we are. What creative things can we do? Do we need to do, or are we not seeing. How have we gotten locked into a certain mode? And a certain habitual action. Brian - New: That's why I liked that exercise. Of the simple act of cleaning. It is. A simple thing. Most of us think of it as a chore it's treasury that we just do because it needs doing. some of us are fortunate enough to find a lot of joy in it. With the power of imagination. And the creative path. One Ken. Simply shift that [00:21:00] perspective. Can go, I'm going to clean this space. It is going to be an act of compassion. Given to everyone. That enters that space, including yourself. And as an act of compassion, it's done without thought of reward. But knowing. With that hope and faith, good things will come out of it. And then with that power of creation, power of the creative imagination. Making that shift and then doing the cleaning. It is now a gift. Not one that you have to have a thank you for it. It's just a gift. That you can enjoy. That any everybody else entering this space can enjoy. That you can then also further contemplate. Meditate upon. How it can be transformed. For the next time you do it. So that then you can. Make it even better gift. Charlie- New: That's why as we're going about our days. We're even if it's just right now, while you're hearing the sounds of our voices. Just take a. [00:22:00] Moment. A little breath. And ask yourself. Where's that light. Whereas that lightness. Where's that. Creativity. Where is my imagination right now. Where are you finding those things? Where are you practicing those things? Where are those things calling to you? They may not be in the most obvious places. Maybe you need to be creative about the path you take to work. Maybe you need to be creative about how you do your sleep schedule. Or the routine that you have to get up in the morning. Maybe you need to have some creativity. And how you pray. Or meditate. Maybe you need to have some creativity in your meal planning. Have you gotten into a rut? Anytime anything starts feeling routine. I think it's important for us. To ask ourselves that question. Is this routine because I want it to be, because this is what I have chosen. Or because I just got into a pattern and it became a [00:23:00] habit. So much of what we're trying to do in the creative life and the spiritual life. It's learning to see those habitual patterns. And which ones need to be broken free from. it's very easy for us to just get into a pattern. That's really the power of. The third path. It shows us where we need to bring that imagination. That creativity and that light. So that we can change. That's what the path four is all about. But before. Little baby. Jesus can walk. We have to give birth to him. We do that. When we learn to trust the divine imagination living within us. And to be co-creators with God. In this amazing and wonderful cosmos. Thank you so much for listening. I hope you have enjoyed today's episode. If you have. Please. Like us or whatever you can do wherever you're listening. If you're at a place where you can leave a review that helps us out. Immensely. Don't [00:24:00] forget to share. If you think that somebody, you know, would benefit from hearing this. That helps us out more than, you know, And if you. Have a few pennies, you can throw our way. If you head over to https://www.creationspaths.com/, you can join our sub stack over there and get the classes as they start coming out. Or. You can go over to my https://ko-fi.com/cedorsett or patreon.com/cedorsett. I'm see Dorsett on both. And that helps with everything that I do, including the stories, the music and everything else. Thank you so much for spending this time with us and may the blessings of the first quarter moon be upon you. Bye. Brian - New: Bye. Get full access to Creation's Paths at www.creationspaths.com/subscribe

Could there be an end in sight to the nightmare of sleeping disorders? Join Dr. Kevin Ban and Dr. John Cronin as they explore common sleep disorders and treatments that you can try tonight! In this second installment about how to get a better night's sleep, the doc's debunk common myths and ineffective self-treatment methods, emphasizing evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Whether you struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, this episode offers practical advice and hope for achieving better sleep.For those who feel like they've tried it all, here's the short-list of benefits you'll get in the next 45 minutes: You'll see how sleep requirements differ; and that not everyone needs eight hours of sleep or moreYou'll learn how to avoid many popular self-treatment methods that actually make insomnia worseYou'll discover more about the restorative power of reconnecting with your circadian rhythm You'll learn about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) as a way to fall asleep without the medsYou'll get actionable strategies that you can implement today for a great sleep tonightAnd so much moreLet's face it. Sleeping disorders can be a painful fact of life for all of us. The good news is that there's more you can do about it than you may have previously thought and you don't need a doctor, lengthy sleep studies, or medication. Don't miss this episode filled with expert advice and practical tips for achieving a good night's rest so that you can wake up to a new you, from here on out!Sharing Beauty:     • Dad Holding Space for His Daughter's ...  Contact email:  team@sickhealthshow.comExecutive Producer: Kevin Ban, MDProduction Director, Editor and Producer:  Bat-Sheva GuezGraphic designer: Leah VanWhyYouTube SEO: Lighthouse-Digitalmarketing.comSocial media: Rebekah PajakInterns: Nicole Berritto & Niccolo Ban* Select photos provided by Shutterstock *This show's content represents the personal opinions of Kevin Ban, MD. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and does not create a physician-patient relationship with Kevin Ban, MD. Always seek the advice of your physician or other health care qualified provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition or your general health.To see any images and leave your questions or comments, find us on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@SickHealthwithKevinBanMD

Watch this episode on video here https://youtu.be/Qc0PMBXVrQk Welcome to Dangerous Misinformation with your host, Rodney Smith. In this episode, Rodney shares his unique perspective on life, politics, and the importance of pushing through resistance. He also discusses his love for music and his experiences with some of his favorite artists. Despite the challenges, Rodney emphasizes the importance of understanding the world around us and not shying away from difficult topics. Tune in for a raw, unfiltered conversation that's sure to make you think. Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes! In this podcast episode, Rodney Smith, the host of "Dangerous Misinformation," welcomes listeners and introduces himself as the narrator. He expresses gratitude for the audience's presence and wishes them a happy Monday. Rodney then reflects on the perspective of appreciating each day as a gift rather than a burden. The host shares a personal anecdote about his grandfather's advice to value waking up in the morning. He delves into the concept of sleep and the occasional challenges he faces due to insomnia. Rodney mentions taking Lunesta for better sleep and humorously refers to himself as a "genius" facing the struggle of winding down his active mind. The conversation shifts to Rodney's recent experience with feeling creatively drained. He recounts a moment when he decided not to release an episode because he felt it didn't meet his professional standards. He discusses the pressure of maintaining creativity and shares insights from a book he recently read called "The War of Art," emphasizing the importance of facing resistance. The host then shares personal stories about interactions with his favorite rappers, including FatSaq, BFG, and Swamp G. He humorously describes his experiences with these artists and the challenges of maintaining relationships in the music industry. The episode takes a philosophical turn as Rodney contemplates the significance of life, the need to understand political dynamics, and the impact of societal changes on individual mindsets. He expresses a desire to join groups like the Freemasons for deeper understanding. Throughout the podcast, Rodney displays a candid and unfiltered communication style, touching on personal experiences, challenges, and reflections on broader topics. The episode concludes with a reminder to check out Rodney's book, "The Petty Principles," and his newly launched merchandise. He encourages listeners to subscribe, leave ratings, and promises to return with more content in the next episode.   Certainly, here's a more concise summary with timestamps: 00:00:14 - 00:00:57: Rodney Smith introduces himself, discusses the value of waking up each day, and shares a personal anecdote about his grandfather's advice. 00:00:57 - 00:02:47: Reflects on insomnia, the challenges of being a "genius," and the importance of facing creative resistance, mentioning a recent experience with a failed podcast episode. 00:02:47 - 00:05:57: Shares personal stories about interactions with favorite rappers like FatSaq, BFG, and Swamp G, emphasizing the challenges in maintaining relationships in the music industry. 00:05:57 - 00:09:51: Explores the importance of understanding political dynamics, societal changes, and the mindset of the general population, expressing frustration with those who avoid political discussions. 00:09:51 - 00:13:06: Reflects on the challenges of spreading "dangerous misinformation" and the impact on relationships, sharing experiences with his favorite rappers blocking him. 00:13:06 - 00:14:56: Addresses listener communication preferences, mentions new merchandise, and encourages engagement, ending with a reminder to check out his book, "The Petty Principles." Note: Timestamps are approximate, and the summary is condensed for brevity.        

A benzo peer support training class can be quite educational — especially for the instructor. In early November, I had the pleasure of teaching a sold-out course to individuals with a wide mix of backgrounds. It was quite illuminating. In today's episode, I share some insights from teaching peer support training. I also discuss my response to some constructive criticism, look at our focus here at Easing Anxiety, and wish everyone a very happy holiday season. Video ID: BFP129 CHAPTERS00:00 INTRODUCTION00:16 Thanksgiving & Family03:11 Feedback Form Fixed04:18 Constructive Criticism06:33 Our Direction / Indecision07:22 Anxiety Management & BIND10:43 Our Focus on Mental Health13:52 Connecting with You15:55 Not Medical Advice16:33 How Ya Doin'?19:48 FEATURE 21:28 About the Course24:52 Benzos & Recovery (SUD)30:06 Learning from Recovery (SUD)31:20 Interaction & Discussion33:08 Teaching BIND36:10 Boundaries37:16 Patient Boundaries39:43 Caregiver Boundaries41:31 Categories of Symptoms48:37 Benzos and Alcohol52:21 Active Benzo Community54:25 You Got This!56:02 CLOSING  REFERENCESFeedback—    What Do You Want to See at Easing Anxiety? — https://easinganxiety.com/feedbackResources—    Benzo Peer Training — https://benzopeertraining.org —    BIND Symptoms (14 Categoreies) — https://easinganxiety.com/symptoms  SITE LINKSVISIT US ONLINE — Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — Twitter: https://twitter.com/@easinganx — Facebook: https://facebook.com/easinganxfb — Instagram: https://instagram.com/easinganx SUBSCRIBE / SUPPORT US — Join Our Mailing List: https://easinganxiety.com/subscribe — Make a Donation: https://easinganxiety.com/donate  PODCAST SUMMARYThis podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. DISCLAIMERAll content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer.  MUSIC CREDITS— All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com)  Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park" — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION CREDITSEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com

Meet Dr. Doryn Chervin. Hear her benzo story. Her background in public health. Her take on benzos, BIND, setbacks, research, doctors, healing, the benzo community, and what has been going on behind the scenes at Easing Anxiety. Doryn Chervin holds a doctorate in public health and spent 40 years as a public health program strategist and evaluator. She is also on the board at the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices. Doryn took clonazepam for over 25 years, is now benzo-free, and works tirelessly helping those still struggling with dependence and BIND.Video ID: BFP128 CHAPTERS00:00 INTRODUCTION02:10 Welcome Doryn02:38 Doryn's Background04:38 Suicide Prevention Leadership06:15 Doryn's Benzo Story09:13 It's Really Possible to Heal 09:42 How Are You Feeling Now? 11:01 BIND Setbacks12:38 Journey to Learn / FDA 13:33 Doryn and the Alliance 14:57 FDA / Kaiser Research Study17:43 Working Together at EA 19:38  Partnering with the Community 21:42 Anxiety and Instability 22:59 There's No One Way25:32 Murphy Says Hi26:28 Upcoming Podcast on EA Plan27:10 Financial Sustainability 30:53 Getting to Know Doryn 31:55 Content & Services 34:56 An Information Resource35:55 A Strong Research Background39:26 The Human Connection43:03 We Want to Hear from You46:57 Sub Group Peer Support49:21 Live / In-Person Events51:00 Falling Asleep to the Podcast52:04 Burnout in Benzo Community54:02 EA Updates / Next Podcast55:25 Doryn's Struggle with Anxiety57:04 CLOSING    REFERENCESFeedback—    What Do You Want to See at Easing Anxiety? — https://easinganxiety.com/feedbackResources—    Doryn's Introductory Blog Post — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/introducing-dr-doryn-chervin —    The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org  —    The National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention — https://theactionalliance.org —    FDA 2020 Boxed Warning on Benzodiazepines https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/new-fda-warning-on-benzodiazepines-what-does-it-really-mean —    The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/ashton —    BOOK: Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal — https://easinganxiety.com/book  —    Benzodiazepine Action Work Group — https://benzoaction.org—    A Peacock Consulting (Angela Peacock) — https://apeacockconsulting.com  SITE LINKSVISIT US ONLINE — Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — Twitter: https://twitter.com/@easinganx — Facebook: https://facebook.com/easinganxfb — Instagram: https://instagram.com/easinganx SUBSCRIBE / SUPPORT US — Join Our Mailing List: https://easinganxiety.com/subscribe — Make a Donation: https://easinganxiety.com/donate  PODCAST SUMMARYThis podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. DISCLAIMERAll content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer.  MUSIC CREDITS— All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com)  Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park" — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION CREDITSEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com

It's 3:00am. Sleep is elusive. Collective thoughts converge on the manic mind. So, why not record a podcast? Join D as he ponders benzos and BIND, fatigue and fear, motivation, meditation, gratitude, and grace. All from the comfort of his own bed. Video ID: BFP127 CHAPTERS0:00:00 It's 3:14 am0:02:21 Struggling Lately0:05:30 Podcast Delays 0:07:08 Benzo Peer Training0:07:51 Overwhelm & Fatigue0:09:02 New Content Coming… 0:10:35 Coping with Insomnia0:13:38 Missed Y'all 0:14:34 Ruminations in a Dark Room0:16:23 Finding Life Balance0:19:10 Motivation to Change 0:24:00 Discipline As We Heal0:26:00 Moving Forward0:28:38 It Does Get Better0:29:52 Advice for the Younger You?0:32:54 Being OK with Yourself 0:38:35 Trying to Belong0:40:14 A Calming Voice0:42:26 BIND Frustration / Emotion0:47:40 Talking in the Bathroom0:48:56 Podcasts & Authenticity0:51:24 Meditation & Perfectionism 0:53:53 Five Minute Meditation0:54:38 Yin Yoga & BIND0:56:19 Changing for the Better0:58:56 Benefits of Gratitude1:04:27 Three Gratitudes1:06:08 Being Grateful for Others1:13:27 CLOSING SITE LINKSVISIT US ONLINE — Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — Twitter: https://twitter.com/@easinganx — Facebook: https://facebook.com/easinganxfb — Instagram: https://instagram.com/easinganx SUBSCRIBE / SUPPORT US — Join Our Mailing List: https://easinganxiety.com/subscribe — Make a Donation: https://easinganxiety.com/donate  PODCAST SUMMARYThis podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. DISCLAIMERAll content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer.  MUSIC CREDITS— All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com)  Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park" — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION CREDITSEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com

Benzos and grief, diet, and distension. Benzos and pets, laughter, and levity. Benzos and indecision and lack of memory. Benzos and research, internet, and advocacy. So many topics, so much to discuss. In today's episode, we dive into our mailbag again to hear from you. D shares some comments, answers some questions, and even reads some critical feedback. Join us for a few insights and friendly discussion.  Video ID: BFP126 CHAPTERS00:00 INTRODUCTION02:25 The Gift of Caregiving04:13 Our New Puppy05:48 The Social Benefit of Dogs07:50 Recent Blog Posts at EA09:41 1,000 YouTube Subscribers11:53 Graham, Jimmy, & Robin 17:07  Lightening the Load 21:45 A.I. and Being Genuine24:20 MAILBAG24:33 Indecision and  Control28:11 Five Stages of Grief29:25 No One Path31:11 Connection So Important32:45 Benzo Belly35:58 What Is a Healthy Diet?38:00 Way Too Much About Me39:04 Angie at Burning Man42:00  Internet for Awareness43:38 Research Is Important45:19 Internet Limitations46:09 Content Vying for Coverage47:27 Has My Memory Improved?50:51 Thanks for the Comments52:12 MOMENT OF PEACE REFERENCES INTRODUCTION — Easing Anxiety Blog Posts: https://www.easinganxiety.com/posts/categories/blog — Our New Puppy Blog Post: https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/meet-murphy-our-new-mascot MAILBAG — Indecision — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/anxiety-and-indecision-6-tips-to-help-you-decide — 5 Stages of Grief — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzos-bind-and-the-5-stages-of-grief — Who Am I Now? — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/who-am-i-now-confidence-and-self-esteem-in-benzo-withdrawal-bind-bfp122 — Benzo Belly (Take 2) — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzo-belly-our-gut-in-withdrawal-take-2-bfp060 — Lazy Morning on the Patio — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/lazy-morning-on-the-patio-updates-community-compassion-and-coaching  — Angela Peacock — https://apeacockconsulting.com — BIND Roundtable — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-bind-roundtable-benzodiazepine-survey-research-team — Benzo Brain — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzo-brain-cognitive-symptoms-in-withdrawal-bfp073 SITE LINKSVISIT US ONLINE — Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com — YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx — Twitter: https://twitter.com/@easinganx — Facebook: https://facebook.com/easinganxfb SUBSCRIBE / SUPPORT US — Join Our Mailing List: https://easinganxiety.com/subscribe — Make a Donation: https://easinganxiety.com/donate  PODCAST SUMMARYThis podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. DISCLAIMERAll content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. MUSIC CREDITS— All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park" — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION CREDITSEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Press https://www.denimmountainpress.com

What's new at Easing Anxiety? What's new in the benzo community? What's new in the world of BIND? And what should someone new to benzos do if they're just getting started? Join D for an off-script conversation this lazy Sunday morning.In today's episode, D records the podcast live on his back patio enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. He discusses the EA Community, a new team member, lingering symptoms, coaching, training, surviving, and a few tips for those just getting started.Video ID: BFP125 CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction02:41 Sunday on the Porch05:05 Replying to Your Emails08:41 EA Community Update09:56 Welcome Doryn Chervin11:41 How to Be Notified12:37 Podcast Update13:59 My Health Status15:39 9 Years Benzo Free16:21 Managing the Crazy17:26 Starting Out Afraid18:48 Why I Still Have Symptoms21:40 More Benzo Support Today24:19 Advice for Beginners25:37 Amazing Benzo Support Orgs30:55 You Got This31:38 Love Doing the Podcast33:23 Blog, Subscribe, and Log In35:08 Coaching and Training40:46 We Heal41:30 BIND and BIND Coverage43:54 Our Approach at EA46:20 Compassionate Responsibility51:03 D Unscripted52:04 Wish You Were Here55:58 Thank You57:03 ClosingBIND RESOURCES— Easing Anxiety — https://easinganxiety.com— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org— Benzo Action Work Group — https://benzoaction.org— Benzo Peer Training — https://benzopeertraining.org— Baylissa Frederick — https://mccare.org— Jennifer Leigh — https://benzowithdrawalhelp.com— Benzo Warrior — https://benzowarrior.com— Geraldine Burns — https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/benzodiazepine-awareness-with-geraldine-burns/id1358022441— Angela Peacock — https://apeacockconsulting.comSITE LINKSVISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx— Twitter: https://twitter.com/@easinganx— Facebook: https://facebook.com/easinganxfbSUBSCRIBE / SUPPORT US— Join Our Mailing List: https://easinganxiety.com/subscribe— Make a Donation: https://easinganxiety.com/donate PODCAST SUMMARYThis podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. DISCLAIMERAll content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies.Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. MUSIC CREDITS— All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com)Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION CREDITSEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Naftal Benisty is the creator and host of the podcast, “Benzo Tired.” A social worker by trade, Naftal's personal experience with kindling, seizures, and multiple prescriptions for benzodiazepines steered him into the world of benzo advocacy.In our conversation, Naftal shares his benzo story and the reasons he decided to start a podcast. We also talk about seizures, the indefinite hold, BIND, deprescribing guidelines, medical education, remaining positive, and so much more.Video ID: BFP123CHAPTERS0:00:00 INTRODUCTION0:01:06 Feeling Good / Taking a Break0:02:54 Peer Support Training0:04:34 Checking in with You0:08:54 FEATURE: Naftal Benisty0:13:51 Welcome0:14:36 A Bit About Naftal0:16:15 Naftal's Benzo Story0:26:32 Benzos and Seizures0:29:20 Tapering & the Indefinite Hold0:35:18 How Are You Now?0:36:18 Starting His Podcast0:38:29 Making the Podcast Is a Gift0:41:04 Benefits of Lived Experience0:43:44 BIND Discovery0:44:59 Consortium's Deprescribing Guidelines0:46:28 U.S. vs. International Benzo Support0:50:31 Educating Medical Professionals0:52:08 Are There Good Benzo Uses?0:53:48 Haeley & Tom Episode0:56:22 Our Caregivers0:59:16 Future for Naftal / Podcast1:00:47 Long COVID and Benzos1:01:16 How Podcasts Help1:03:48 Balancing Honesty and Positivity1:06:09 Doing Great Work1:06:58 One Piece of Advice1:07:17 Deprescribing Guidelines1:08:57 Shane Kenny's Movie1:09:20 Final Words1:10:50 CLOSING RESOURCES— Benzo Tired on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7HHdbrsbTpMMmlrL9TCWfi— Benzo Tired: Haely & Tom Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1VTFkXLVDrMVrHdHiaoMaV?si=P5_pecyKSyap3iSweKPwsg— BAWG Documentation (scroll down to see “projects”): https://benzoaction.org— Deprescribing Guidelines from BAWG: https://corxconsortium.org/wp-content/uploads/Benzo-Deprescribing.pdf— BIND Description: https://easinganxiety.com/BIND SITE LINKSVISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx— Twitter: https://twitter.com/@easinganx— Facebook: https://facebook.com/easinganxfb— Instagram: https://instagram.com/easinganxSUBSCRIBE / SUPPORT US— Join Our Mailing List: https://easinganxiety.com/subscribe— Make a Donation: https://easinganxiety.com/donate PODCAST SUMMARYThis podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. DISCLAIMERAll content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies.Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. MUSIC CREDITS— All music provided / licensed through Storyblocks (https://www.storyblocks.com) Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTION CREDITSEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Personality changes. Loss of ability. Loss of confidence. Loss of self. These are common in benzo withdrawal and BIND, and yet we rarely talk about them. What does this look like? What are its causes? And most of all, what can we do about it?In today's episode, we explore the loss of self during benzo withdrawal. We also respond to a question on tinnitus, share a comment on the benefits of nature, and hear a benzo story from New Zealand.https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/who-am-i-now-confidence-and-self-esteem-in-benzo-withdrawal-bind-bfp122Video ID: BFP122Chapters00:00 INTRODUCTION01:28 Back from Vacation03:36 Benzo Work Updates04:57 Still Have Some Symptoms07:00 Today's Format08:11 MAILBAG08:17 Benzos and Tinnitus12:58 Nature and Connection15:39 BENZO STORY16:29 Eta's Mum's Story / New Zealand22:04 Medical Communication Failures25:40 FEATURE26:59 BIND Refresher27:43 Our Lives Have Changed28:29 Benzo Life Effects Data30:41 Loss of Confidence35:00 Humility vs. Egoism35:54 Symptoms that Affect Confidence38:23 What Can We Do?38:42 Making Use of the Extra Time40:35 Finding Acceptance42:59 Six Tips for Improving Self-Esteem47:22 MOMENT OF PEACE ResourcesThe following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein.— Ackerman, Courtney E. “What Is Self-Confidence? (+9 Proven Ways to Increase It).” Positive Psychology. July 9, 2018. Accessed May 11, 2023. https://positivepsychology.com/self-confidence/.— Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. https://easinganxiety.com/ashton.— Finlayson, AJ Reid, Macoubrie J, Huff C, Foster DE, Martin PR. Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet survey. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. 2022;12. doi:10.1177/20451253221082386. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/20451253221082386.— Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://www.benzofree.org/book.— Huff C, Finlayson AJR, Foster DE, Martin PR. Enduring neurological sequelae of benzodiazepine use: an Internet survey. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. 2023;13. doi:10.1177/20451253221145561. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/20451253221145561.— Ravenscraft, Eric. “Practical Ways to Improve Your Confidence (and Why You Should).” New York Times. June 3, 2019. Accessed May 11, 2023. https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/03/smarter-living/how-to-improve-self-confidence.html.— Tinnitus. Mayo Clinic Patient Care & Health Information. Accessed May 11, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tinnitus/symptoms-causes/syc-20350156.— “Top 10 Tips for Overcoming Low Self-Esteem.” Ditch the Label. September 26, 2022. Accessed May 11, 2023. https://www.ditchthelabel.org/overcoming-low-self-esteem/. The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata).WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribeYOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganxDISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer.CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio— https://www.storyblocks.comBenzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park”— Artist: Neil CrossPRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Final) / Presentation Cancellation, Vacation Reschedule, Benzo Community Activity, Social Media Effects, and Rollin' with the Changes Podcast ID: BFP121 Chapters 00:00  Which Day Is It?00:19  Presentation / Vacation04:59  What to Talk About?05:48  Benzo Community Activity06:15  Social Media Effects08:30  Promoting Others' Sites10:12  Rollin' with the Changes12:23  Closing References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 5-6) / 1st Day of Rx Summit, Small Victories, Managing Benzo Limitations, BIND, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Urinary Difficulties, Fear of Heights, and Finding Ways to Do Things Podcast ID: BFP120 Chapters 00:00  Welcome to Days 5-600:28  Day 5 Recap01:31  First Day of Conference04:15  Benzo Morning Obsessions06:50  Small Victories07:13  Managing Limitations07:47  Pelvic Floor Dysfunction10:45  Managing PFD14:57  Symptom Management15:50  Fear of Heights17:40  Finding Ways to Do Things19:06  Thought Train Derailment 220:30  Closing References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 4) / Nashville, TN to Alpharetta, GA / Driving and Flying Working Around Limitations, Emotions and Social Media, Setting Boundaries Podcast ID: BFP119 Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Georgia02:16 Managing My Symptoms 102:46 Hotel Room Tour04:51 Driving in the Rain05:42 Managing My Symptoms 206:24 Driving and Flying07:47 Work Around Limitations08:48 Emotions and Social Media11:59 Setting Boundaries12:52 Train of Thought Derailment13:20 Back to Boundaries14:53 Care for Our Caregivers15:37 Closing References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 3) / Branson, MO to Nashville, TN / Back Home in Missouri, People with Crosses on the Roadside, Getting Out There and Doing Things Podcast ID: BFP118 Chapters 00:00  Welcome to Opryland01:11  Back Home in Missouri03:27  Roadside Crosses: Preface07:29  Roadside Crosses: Interview09:24  Roadside Crosses: Follow Up12:54  Getting Out There and Doing Things14:31  Closing References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 2) / Salina, KS to Branson, MO / Benzos and indecision, the loss of confidence, life becoming small, and appreciation of the little things. Podcast ID: BFP117 Chapters 00:00  Welcome to Branson01:24  Drive Status01:58  Confidence, Indecision, and Benzos07:10  Life Becoming Small09:06  Appreciating the Little Things11:50  What's Next?12:55  Thanks for Joining Me13:08  Finding Beauty in Everything14:13  Closing References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 1) / Denver to Salina, Kansas / Series introduction, why I like road trips, a friendly voice. Podcast ID: BFP116 Chapters 00:00  Welcome to Day 100:47  About the Road Trip02:45  Why I Like Road Trips03:33  Our New Social Feeds04:31  Human Connection07:33  A Friendly Voice 09:11  I Hope You'll Join Me References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Rx Summit: https://rx-summit.com Rx Summit Agenda (Benzo Presentation Tuesday 8:00am): https://www.eventscribe.net/2023/RxSummit/agenda.asp?startdate=4/11/2023&enddate=4/11/2023&BCFO=&pfp=FullSchedule&mode=&fa=&fb=&fc=&fd= Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— Website: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YouTube: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: David Powers is an artist, filmmaker, PhD candidate in psychology, and founder of Powers Benzo Recovery Coaching. After a severe car accident, David became dependent on diazepam. Now benzo-free, he helps others through his films, videos, and coaching. In Part I of our conversation, we hear about David's personal struggle with benzodiazepines. We also discuss research and funding, the limbic system, GABA, fear, hope, symptoms, and even chat a bit about film. Please join us for this relaxed and informative conversation. Podcast ID: BFP114 Chapters 0:00:00  INTRODUCTION0:02:35  Rx Summit0:03:46  Upcoming Vacation0:06:02  INTERVIEW: Intro0:07:28  Filmmakers Chat0:11:38  Welcome to the Podcast0:12:34  David's Benzo Story0:25:38  Benzo Advocacy0:27:29  Are You Fully Healed?0:28:39  Giving Hope0:30:36 Audience-Led Podcasts0:33:14  Publishing His Book0:34:47  Moving into Coaching0:38:22  Benzo Recovery School0:44:56  Wrapping Up PhD0:46:26  Research and Funding0:50:35  Forums and Fear0:53:35  GABA and the Limbic System0:56:08  Responding to Fear0:58:15  Nerves, Symptoms, and Focus1:02:24  CLOSING References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. RESOURCES (Powers Benzo Recovery Coaching) Website — https://www.powersbenzocoaching.com/ YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC18DrdP18DuSxoi2dxuSYUg Benzo Recovery School — https://www.powersbenzocoaching.com/benzoschool Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: David Powers is an artist, filmmaker, PhD candidate in psychology, and founder of Powers Benzo Recovery Coaching. After a severe car accident, David became dependent on diazepam. Now benzo-free, he helps others through his films, videos, and coaching. In Part II of our conversation, we learn about support, coaching, and membership sites. We also discuss psychology, overprescribing, gratitude, burnout, healing, society, culture, and much more. Please join us for this relaxed and informative conversation. Podcast ID: BFP115 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:04  Benzo Recovery School07:13  Benzo Collaboration13:09  Shooting Short Films14:25  Feature Benzo Film20:11  Support, Burnout, and Fees28:38  Benzo Clinic / Commune30:53  Structured Healing33:34  Opportunity for Positive Change37:07  Gratitude in Withdrawal37:37  Jungian Approach40:38  Not the Ideal Situation41:09  Benzo Overprescribing44:21  Benzo Revolution44:58  America, Society, and Unity47:43  Bruce Lee, a Chinese Hero48:22  Humanity and Positivity51:34  Age, Wisdom, and Reality56:43  Wrapping Up58:47  CLOSING References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. POWERS BENZO RECOVERY COACHING Website — https://www.powersbenzocoaching.com/ YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC18DrdP18DuSxoi2dxuSYUg Benzo Recovery School — https://www.powersbenzocoaching.com/benzoschool Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com

Share this post with others: What can we do about tinnitus? What about brain lock? What about insomnia? Does alcohol help? Can flumazenil fix this? What about overwhelm and isolation? These and other questions are discussed as we dive deep into the mailbag. In today's episode, we explore the mailbag — in particular, your YouTube comments. We also catch up on D's health, progress with the workgroup, some exciting conference news, and much more. It's good to be back and we're so glad you tuned in. Podcast ID: BFP112 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION01:29  A Hopeful New Year03:13  My Health Update06:39  Reminder of Acute W/D08:56  Website Update09:59  Peer Support Training Update11:46  Rx Summit Presentation 14:39  Hope and Overwhelm16:58  It's Good to Be Back19:00  MAILBAG19:08  Benzos in the ER21:34  Flumazenil Treatment25:47  Where Did BIND Come From?28:52  Suicidality, Brain Lock, and Isolation35:37  Insomnia37:19  Alcohol and Withdrawal40:48  Sleep Hygiene Tips43:23  Tinnitus45:34  Coping, BIND, and Kind Words47:36  Anecdote About BIND48:52  We Make a Difference50:22  Thank You for Everything52:09  MOMENT OF PEACE References The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Work Group Projects— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://www.benzoaction.org— BAWG Peer Support Training Information — https://www.benzopeertraining.orgBIND Information— Easing Anxiety: Basics of BIND — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/basics-of-bind/ Video Presentation— A New You: Life After Benzos — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/a-new-you-life-aftter-benzo-withdrawal-bwpres2022 Conferences— Rx and Illicit Drug Summit — https://www.rx-summit.com/ — ASAM Annual Conference — https://annualconference.asam.org/2023/asam/index.aspSuicide Prevention— Easing Anxiety: Suicide Prevention Resources — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/category/resources/resources-suicide/resources-suicide-us/ Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback Email us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits

The Z-drugs: Ambien. Lunesta. Sonata. What are these? Are they benzos? Hypnotics? When did they hit the market? Can they cause dependence? Withdrawal? BIND? These questions and more will be discussed in our feature today. In today's episode, we focus on nonbenzodiazepines, or Z-drugs. How are they like benzodiazepines, and how are they different? We also answer some questions about dosage, duration, and rebounding and we hear a story of struggle from Tulsa, Oklahoma. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/z-drugs-the-other-benzos-an-in-depth-look-at-ambien-lunesta-and-sonata-bfp111Video ID: BFP111Chapters 00:00 INTRODUCTION02:09 My Podcast Voice05:33 Progress on Website06:33 Peer Support Training Update09:10 Struggles, Symptoms, and the Podcast14:47 A reason why, or just coincidence? 18:16 MAILBAG18:58 Does dosage or duration matter? 21:24 Rebound from medical procedures?24:31 BENZO STORY32:28 FEATURE: Z-drugs34:38 What are Z-drugs?36:00 When did Z-drugs hit the market?36:36 Do Z-drugs act like BZDs on the body?37:54 Z-drugs often partnered with BZDs39:46 What are Z-drugs prescribed for?40:07 The Quest for the Magic Pill42:04 Are Z-drugs less likely to cause symptoms?45:06 What are the Z-drug side effects?47:02 Are Z-drug symptoms different?48:20 How to taper from Z-drugs?49:05 BZD and Z-drug Terminology51:48 MOMENT OF PEACE Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. FEATURE: Z-drugsAshton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. https://easinganxiety.com/ashton Brandt J, Leong C. Benzodiazepines and Z-Drugs: An Updated Review of Major Adverse Outcomes Reported on in Epidemiologic Research. Drugs R D. 2017 Dec;17(4):493-507. doi: 10.1007/s40268-017-0207-7. PMID: 28865038; PMCID: PMC5694420. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5694420/. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://easinganxiety.com/book Kay, Abigail L. et al. Drug Abuse, Dependency, and Withdrawal. Therapy in Sleep Medicine. 2012. https://doi.org/10.1016/C2009-0-40426-4. Schifano F, Chiappini S, Corkery JM, Guirguis A. An Insight into Z-Drug Abuse and Dependence: An Examination of Reports to the European Medicines Agency Database of Suspected Adverse Drug Reactions. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2019 Apr 1;22(4):270-277. doi: 10.1093/ijnp/pyz007. PMID: 30722037; PMCID: PMC6441128. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6441128/. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Taking Z-drugs for Insomnia? Know the Risks. Last Updated April 30, 2019. Accessed November 30, 2022. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/taking-z-drugs-insomnia-know-risks. Waller, Derek G., Anthony P. Sampson. Anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and insomnia. Medical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Fifth Edition. 2018. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780702071676000208. Wikipedia. Nonbenzodiazepine. Accessed November 30, 2022. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nonbenzodiazepine. Z-Drug. ScienceDirect. 2022. Accessed November 30, 2022. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/z-drug.  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: The Z-drugs: Ambien. Lunesta. Sonata. What are these? Are they benzos? Hypnotics? When did they hit the market? Can they cause dependence? Withdrawal? BIND? These questions and more will be the focus of our feature today. In today's episode, we focus on nonbenzodiazepines or Z-drugs. How are they like benzodiazepines, and how are they different? We also answer some questions about dosage, duration, and rebounding and we hear a story of struggle from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Podcast ID: BFP111 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:09  My Podcast Voice05:33  Progress on Website06:33  Peer Support Training Update09:10  Struggles, Symptoms, and the Podcast14:47  A reason why, or just coincidence?18:16  MAILBAG18:58  Does dosage or duration matter?21:24  Rebound from medical procedures?24:31  BENZO STORY32:28  FEATURE: Z-drugs34:38  What are Z-drugs?36:00  When did Z-drugs hit the market?36:36  Do Z-drugs act like BZDs on the body?37:54  Z-drugs often partnered with BZDs39:46  What are Z-drugs prescribed for?40:07  The Quest for the Magic Pill42:04  Are Z-drugs less likely to cause symptoms?45:06  What are the Z-drug side effects?47:02  Are Z-drug symptoms different?48:20  How to taper from Z-drugs?49:05  BZD and Z-drug Terminology51:48  MOMENT OF PEACE Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual. Brandt J, Leong C. Benzodiazepines and Z-Drugs: An Updated Review of Major Adverse Outcomes Reported on in Epidemiologic Research. Drugs R D. 2017 Dec;17(4):493-507. doi: 10.1007/s40268-017-0207-7. PMID: 28865038; PMCID: PMC5694420. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5694420/. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://www.benzofree.org/book.                                                                                            Kay, Abigail L. et al. Drug Abuse, Dependency, and Withdrawal. Therapy in Sleep Medicine. 2012. https://doi.org/10.1016/C2009-0-40426-4. Schifano F, Chiappini S, Corkery JM, Guirguis A. An Insight into Z-Drug Abuse and Dependence: An Examination of Reports to the European Medicines Agency Database of Suspected Adverse Drug Reactions. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2019 Apr 1;22(4):270-277. doi: 10.1093/ijnp/pyz007. PMID: 30722037; PMCID: PMC6441128. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6441128/. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Taking Z-drugs for Insomnia? Know the Risks. Last Updated April 30, 2019. Accessed November 30, 2022. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/taking-z-drugs-insomnia-know-risks. Waller, Derek G., Anthony P. Sampson. Anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and insomnia. Medical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Fifth Edition. 2018. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780702071676000208. Wikipedia. Nonbenzodiazepine. Accessed November 30, 2022. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nonbenzodiazepine. Z-Drug. ScienceDirect. 2022. Accessed November 30, 2022. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/z-drug. Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence,

Dr. Anna Lembke is our guest today — and trust me — you don't want to miss this one! We discuss benzodiazepine tapering, substitution, the dopamine cycle, flumazenil, anxiety, social media, finding a doctor and so much more.Anna Lembke, MD is a professor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine, chief of the Stanford Addiction Medicine Dual Diagnosis Clinic, and an internationally recognized leader in addiction medicine, treatment, and education. A best-selling author, she has also testified before both the U.S. House and Senate and appeared in the Netflix documentary, “The Social Dilemma.”https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/conversation-with-stanford-psychiatris-anna-lembke-md-bfp110Video ID: BFP110Chapters 0:00:00 INTRODUCTION0:01:55 Benzos & Surgery Update0:03:25 PROTECT Study0:04:35 FEATURE: Dr. Anna Lembke0:05:28 Dr. Lembke's Bio0:06:54 Welcome / About Dr. Lembke0:09:32 Deprescribing Clinics0:10:53 Learning from Addiction Medicine0:12:17 The Bravo Protocol0:13:37 The Ashton Manual0:14:59 Benzo Horror Stories0:15:50 The Dopamine Cycle0:19:45 Addiction vs. Dependence0:21:59 Is Benzo Withdrawal Unique?0:24:52 When Did You Become Concerned?0:26:40 Changes in Prescribing Practices0:29:15 Increasing Rates of Anxiety0:30:24 Drugifying Human Behaviors0:31:28 Digital Device Addiction0:34:59 Reinforcing Negative Experiences0:38:37 Mindfulness / Expectations0:41:49 Finding Acceptance0:43:48 How Do You Taper Your Patients?0:46:48 Substitution vs. Direct Taper0:49:57 Dosing Schedule / Flexibility0:52:06 Stabilizing Before Tapering0:54:31 Finding a Doctor You Can Trust0:56:04 You Make a Difference as a Patient0:56:53 Flumazenil and Other Treatments1:00:33 Benzos and the Elderly1:02:24 The Danger of Designer Benzos1:03:59 What are Benzos Good For?1:05:31 Benzos for Medical Procedures1:07:32 Final Words for the Patient1:09:10 CLOSING BIO for Dr. Anna LembkeAnna Lembke, MD is professor of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine and chief of the Stanford Addiction Medicine Dual Diagnosis Clinic. A clinician scholar, she is the author of more than a hundred peer-reviewed publications, has testified before the United States House of Representatives and Senate, has served as an expert witness in federal and state opioid litigation, and is an internationally recognized leader in addiction medicine treatment and education.In 2016, Anna published “Drug Dealer, MD – How Doctors Were Duped, Patients Got Hooked, and Why It's So Hard to Stop” (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2016), highlighted in the New York Times as one of the top five books to read to understand the opioid epidemic (Zuger, 2018). Dr. Lembke appeared in the Netflix documentary “The Social Dilemma,” an unvarnished look at the impact of social media on our lives. Her latest book, “Dopamine Nation: Finding Balance in the Age of Indulgence” (Dutton/Penguin Random House, August 2021) was an instant New York Times and Los Angeles Times bestseller and explores how to moderate compulsive overconsumption in a dopamine-overloaded world. Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. RESOURCES for Anna Lembke, MD— WEBSITE — https://www.annalembke.com/— PROFILE: Stanford University — https://profiles.stanford.edu/anna-lembke— BOOK: “Drug Dealer, MD” — https://www.annalembke.com/drug-dealer-md— BOOK: “Dopamine Nation” — https://www.annalembke.com/drug-dealer-md — VIDEO: “Benzodiazepines: The Hidden Epidemic” — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ln1F2oANexw— VIDEO: “Benzodiazepines: Dependence and Withdrawal” — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-W9EEI2ZXKU— VIDEO: “Benzodiazepine Tolerance: An Adverse Medical Event” — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R7r_94vyOL4— BRAVO! A Collaborative Approach to Opioid Tapering — https://www.oregonpainguidance.org/guideline/tapering/— The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/ashton-manual/ The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: What happens when you need surgery during protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal (BIND)? How do you manage the anxiety?  Do you take meds? Benzos? Opioids? How do you handle recovery? Join D on his personal 14-day journey. In part 2 of this 2-part series, the surgery is completed and D reviews his decision to be given a benzodiazepine for sedation. He monitors its effect on his symptoms, discusses his recovery and use of pain meds, and explores his improved outlook on life after his successful procedure. LISTEN TO PART 1 HERE: https://www.benzofree.org/podcast/benzos-and-surgery-a-journey-of-anxiety-recovery-medication-and-success-part-1-of-2-bfp108/ Welcome to Episode #109 Follow D on his 14-day journey preparing for and recovering from foot surgery while still dealing with the symptoms of BIND. D recorded his thoughts for a week of prep leading up to the surgery as he dealt with anxiety, fear, and other complications. He also continued to record for the week following his surgery including his experience with taking a benzodiazepine during the procedure, any effects of that decision, managing his pain meds, and other recovery difficulties and successes. Video ID: BFP109 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:07  Listing Benzos As an Allergy (Day -1)07:11  Morning of Surgery (Day 0)09:28  Back Home Recovering10:41  Deciding to Take a Benzo14:14  Comedy of Errors (Day +1)18:29  Post-Op Meds20:09  Putting Weight on Foot (Day +2)21:18  Positivity from Success25:20  Symptoms Mild26:10  Feeling Better (Day +3)27:41  “The Midnight Library” / Perspective31:05  Recovery Setback (Day +5)32:38  Feeling Better Again (Day +6)35:30  A Little Bit of Normalcy37:42  Benzos, Hope, and Timelines41:14  Better Life on the Other Side43:39  Relaxation Videos (Day +7)45:10  In Search of Something Profound46:07  Success Breeds Success48:50  Gratitudes50:26  Final Benzo Update51:07  CLOSING Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. — Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org References Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual.Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://www.benzofree.org/book.   Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general i...

What happens when you need surgery during protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal (BIND)? How do you manage the anxiety? Do you take meds? Benzos? Opioids? How do you handle recovery? Join D on his personal 14-day journey.In part 2 of this 2-part series, the surgery is completed and D reviews his decision to be given a benzodiazepine for sedation. He monitors its effect on his symptoms, discusses his recovery and use of pain meds, and explores his improved outlook on life after his successful procedure.https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzos-and-surgery-a-journey-of-anxiety-recovery-medication-and-success-part-2-of-2-bfp109Video ID: BFP109Chapters 00:00 INTRODUCTION02:07 Listing Benzos As an Allergy (Day -1)07:11 Morning of Surgery (Day 0)09:28 Back Home Recovering10:41 Deciding to Take a Benzo14:14 Comedy of Errors (Day +1)18:29 Post-Op Meds20:09 Putting Weight on Foot (Day +2)21:18 Positivity from Success25:20 Symptoms Mild26:10 Feeling Better (Day +3)27:41 “The Midnight Library” / Perspective31:05 Recovery Setback (Day +5)32:38 Feeling Better Again (Day +6)35:30 A Little Bit of Normalcy37:42 Benzos, Hope, and Timelines41:14 Better Life on the Other Side43:39 Relaxation Videos (Day +7)45:10 In Search of Something Profound46:07 Success Breeds Success48:50 Gratitudes50:26 Final Benzo Update51:07 CLOSING Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. SITE RESOURCESBenzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.orgBenzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.comThe Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.orgREFERENCESAshton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://easinganxiety.com/book  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

What happens when you need surgery during protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal (BIND)? How do you manage the anxiety? Do you take meds? Benzos? Opioids? How do you handle recovery? Join D on his personal 14-day journey.In part 1 of this 2-part series, D discusses his anxiety, insomnia, and other complications leading up to the surgery. He also shares his fear of cancellation, his struggles to find courage, and his reliance on traditional coping skills like distraction, visualization, and meditation.https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzos-and-surgery-a-journey-of-anxiety-recovery-medication-and-success-part-1-of-2-bfp108Video ID: BFP108Chapters 00:00 INTRODUCTION02:24 About My Surgery (Day -7)03:41 Creating a Traumatic Event05:53 Prepping for Surgery07:59 Too Much Time / Trapped10:32 Benzo Morning / Anxiety (Day -6)14:23 It's Just Anxiety / The Off Switch16:30 Calm on the Outside18:14 “Regarding Henry” / Change24:20 A Good Day / Internal Energy (Day -5)29:04 Morning Ritual / Meditation (Day -4)31:50 A Bit More About Meditation34:21 I'm Much Better Than I Was36:03 Anxiety, Irritability, and Shame (Day -3)38:25 Exposure Therapy and Success40:44 Anxiety of Anxiety42:53 Exhaustion of Chronic Anxiety (Day -2)44:47 Courage Visualization46:34 Yea! I Made It This Far (Day -1)48:23 When Plans Change50:48 I Feel Good53:19 CLOSING Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. SITE RESOURCESBenzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.orgBenzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.comThe Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.orgREFERENCESAshton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://easinganxiety.com/book  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: What happens when you need surgery during protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal (BIND)? How do you manage the anxiety?  Do you take meds? Benzos? Opioids? How do you handle recovery? Join D on his personal 14-day journey. In part 1 of this 2-part series, D discusses his anxiety, insomnia, and other complications leading up to the surgery. He also shares his fear of cancellation, his struggles to find courage, and his reliance on traditional coping skills like distraction, visualization, and meditation. LISTEN TO PART 2 HERE: https://www.benzofree.org/podcast/benzos-and-surgery-a-journey-of-anxiety-recovery-medication-and-success-part-2-of-2-bfp109/ Welcome to Episode #108 Follow D on his 14-day journey preparing for and recovering from foot surgery while still dealing with the symptoms of BIND. D recorded his thoughts for a week of prep leading up to the surgery as he dealt with anxiety, fear, and other complications. He also continued to record for the week following his surgery including his experience with taking a benzodiazepine during the procedure, any effects of that decision, managing his pain meds, and other recovery difficulties and successes. Video ID: BFP108 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:24  About My Surgery (Day -7)03:41  Creating a Traumatic Event05:53  Prepping for Surgery07:59  Too Much Time / Trapped10:32  Benzo Morning / Anxiety (Day -6)14:23  It's Just Anxiety / The Off Switch16:30  Calm on the Outside18:14  “Regarding Henry” / Change24:20  A Good Day / Internal Energy (Day -5)29:04  Morning Ritual / Meditation (Day -4)31:50  A Bit More About Meditation34:21  I'm Much Better Than I Was36:03  Anxiety, Irritability, and Shame (Day -3)38:25  Exposure Therapy and Success40:44  Anxiety of Anxiety42:53  Exhaustion of Chronic Anxiety (Day -2)44:47  Courage Visualization46:34  Yea! I Made It This Far (Day -1)48:23  When Plans Change50:48  I Feel Good53:19  CLOSING Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. — Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org References Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual.Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://www.benzofree.org/book.   Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer

My guest this week, Morgan Adams is a double certified sleep coach. Here's how she got started.  “I was desperate to get a good night's sleep after an unexpected crisis rocked my world in my mid-thirties. As a Pharma rep, I didn't have the luxury of “sleeping in” after staring at the clock all night. That's when I got my hands on a popular, physician-prescribed sleeping pill—because when you work in the Pharma field, it's not hard to score a pill for any ill.”  This all-too-common scenario — woman can't sleep, doc says “I have just the thing”—resulted in reliance on Ambien, pharma name, Zolpidem. According to medlineplus.gov, “Zolpidem is used to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Zolpidem belongs to a class of medications called sedative-hypnotics.  They go on to say, “Zolpidem may cause serious or possibly life-threatening sleep behaviors. Some people who took zolpidem got out of bed and drove their cars, prepared and ate food, had sex, made phone calls, sleep-walked, or were involved in other activities while not fully awake. After they woke up, these people were unable to remember what they had done.” Morgan goes on to say, “I didn't know that sleeping pills inhibit your ability to experience restorative sleep. Taking the pills may help you become unconscious, but sedation is not the same as sleep. I would wake up groggy, oftentimes to an empty box of cookies I didn't remember eating, and trudge through the morning until last night's pill would wear off. It's a miracle I never got behind the wheel in these fugue states.” So begins our conversation on how to sleep deeply and restoratively, without using prescription medications long term.  Once Morgan made the decision to get off Ambien, she wanted to spread the word about these potentially dangerous meds and help other women find alternatives.  We discussed the difference between deep sleep and being knocked out using Ambien and other sedative hypnotics.  There are two main types of sedative-hypnotics – benzodiazepines and Z-drugs. Common benzodiazepines include Xanax (alprazolam), Librium (chlordiazepoxide), Valium (diazepam), and Ativan (lorazepam). Common Z-drugs include Ambien (zolpidem), Lunesta (eszopiclone), and Sonata (zaleplon). Thanks for this to https://www.healthinaging.org/tools-and-tips/ask-expert-sedative-hypnotic-drugs-and-related-medications (HealthInAging.org) We now know, in part thanks to the work of Matt Walker and colleagues, that of all the lifestyle habits we must pay attention to age in good health, none is as critical to the process as is sleep. Some of Morgan's tips mirror mine in https://rebelliouswellnessover50.com/power5/ (The Power of 5 work.) If you don't sleep well it's time to take stock of every single choice you make throughout the day. So much influences our sleep including, what and when we eat, blood sugar levels, how much or how little we move, stress, what we do or don't do to prepare for sleep, the lighting and temperature in our pre-sleep environment. Speaking of blood sugar, Morgan uses and recommends a https://www.nutrisense.io/?code=MORGANA (continuous blood sugar monitor from NutriSense.)What's that? It's a small device you stick onto your arm that monitors blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. The data is collected to an app on your phone. The idea is to see what foods, activities, and environmental influences push blood sugar levels up higher than normal or keep them high when they should come down to base level. I've not yet tried one but it's on my list to do before the end of the year. Why would you try one? If your insomnia is due to high blood sugar levels, even in part, and you know what's driving it, you can adjust what you are doing.  Morgan also swears that her https://ouraring.com/ (Oura ring) has made a big difference in how she sleeps. It provides all kinds of data on your...

Are benzos effective for treating anxiety? Insomnia? Seizures? If they aren't safe, what is the evidence? How many BIND symptoms are there? Could these be permanent? And what about COVID? Tune in for the surprising answers.In today's episode, we ask some key questions about benzos and provide real answers, with evidence to back them. We also share questions from our international listeners on CBD and probiotics, and we hear a powerful story of one woman's struggle with her third attempt at withdrawal. This one if chock full of information, and I hope you'll join us.https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-facts-what-do-we-really-know-about-benzos-and-bind-bfp107Video ID: BFP107Chapters 0:00:00 INTRODUCTION0:01:16 About the Last Episode0:02:17 Behind the Scenes Work0:03:18 Hurricane Ian0:05:38 MAILBAG0:05:54 Benzo Belly and Probiotics (Jon)0:11:48 CBD and Withdrawal (Julie)0:17:29 BENZO STORY (Jessica)0:26:48 Response from D0:31:20 FEATURE: Benzo Facts0:32:48 Are Benzos Effective?0:35:23 Are Benzos Safe?0:43:49 Can You Be Addicted to Benzos?0:44:46 Is BIND an Official Term?0:47:21 How Many BIND Symptoms Are There?0:52:05 Is BIND Permanent?0:56:42 Are Z-drugs the Same as Benzos?0:57:22 Do Benzos Have an Effect on COVID?1:00:58 MOMENT OF PEACE Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein.SITE RESOURCES— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org— Blazing Benzos Facebook Group — https://m.facebook.com/groups/1205287192817668/MAILBAGGrinspoon, Peter. Cannabidiol (CBD): What we know and what we don't. Harvard Health Publishing. September 24, 2021. Accessed September 27, 2022. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/cannabidiol-cbd-what-we-know-and-what-we-dont-2018082414476. FEATUREAshton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (aka The Ashton Manual). 2002. Accessed April 13, 2016. http://www.benzo.org.uk/manual. Ashton, C. Heather. Benzodiazepines: The Still Unfinished Story. (Speech at Beat the Benzos Launch Conference, Croyden, London, England). https://www.benzo.org.uk/ashspeech.htm. Bachhuber, Marcus A., Sean Hennessy, Chinazo O. Cunningham and Joanna L. Starrels. “Increasing Benzodiazepine Prescriptions and Overdose Mortality in the United States, 1996-2013.” American Journal of Public Health (AJPH) (April 2016). Accessed April 7, 2018. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2016.303061. Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC). Withdrawal & Post Withdrawal Symptoms. Accessed September 29, 2022. https://www.benzoinfo.com/benzodiazepine-withdrawal-post-withdrawal-symptoms/. Breilmann J, Girlanda F, Guaiana G, Barbui C, Cipriani A, Castellazzi M, Bighelli I, Davies SJC, Furukawa TA, Koesters M. Benzodiazepines versus placebo for panic disorder in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2019, Issue 3. Art. No.: CD010677. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD010677.pub2. Accessed 27 September 2022. https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD010677.pub2/full. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Prescribing Guidelines for Pennsylvania: Safe Prescribing Benzodiazepines for Acute Treatment of Anxiety & Insomnia. Updated May 15, 2017. Accessed April 7, 2018. http://www.health.pa.gov/My%20Health/Diseases%20and%20Conditions/M-P/opioids/Documents/PA%20Guidelines%20on%20Benzo%20Prescribing.pdf. Easing Anxiety. BIND Symptoms. https://easinganxiety.com/symptoms. Foster, D E. Benzo Free: The World of Anti-Anxiety Drugs and the Reality of Withdrawal. Erie, CO: Denim Mountain Press, 2018. https://easinganxiety.com/book. Frances, Allen. Yes, Benzos Are Bad for You. Pro Talk: A Rehabs.com Community. June 10, 2016. Accessed October 13, 2016. https://www.rehabs.com/pro-talk-articles/yes-benzos-are-bad-for-you/. Guina J, Merrill B. Benzodiazepines I: Upping the Care on Downers: The Evidence of Risks, Benefits and Alternatives. J Clin Med. 2018 Jan 30;7(2):17. doi: 10.3390/jcm7020017. PMID: 29385731; PMCID: PMC5852433. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5852433/. Kripke, D. F., R.D. Langer and L.E. Kline. Hypnotics' Association with Mortality or Cancer: A Matched Cohort Study. BMJ Open 2(e000850)(2012). Accessed June 21, 2017. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2012-000850. Lakhani, Nina, Drugs Linked to Brain Damage 30 Years Ago, Independent, November 7, 2010, accessed March 4, 2017, https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/drugs-linked-to-brain-damage-30-years-ago-2127504.html. New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYC DOHMH). City Health Information: Judicious Prescribing of Benzodiazepines. 35(2)(2016). https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/990dad_167113513c9445f8bc77a77370ce649f.pdf. Park, H.Y., Kwon, J., An, S.K. et al. A nationwide cohort study of the association of benzodiazepines with SARS-CoV-2 infection and clinical outcomes. Sci Rep 12, 15947 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-20335-z. U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). Office of Diversion Control; Drug & Chemical Evaluation Section: Benzodiazepines (January 2013). Accessed March 6, 2017. https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/benzo.pdf. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. FDA requiring Boxed Warning updated to improve safe use of benzodiazepine drug class. September 23, 2020. Accessed September 27, 2022. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-requiring-boxed-warning-updated-improve-safe-use-benzodiazepine-drug-class.  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Have you ever been afraid to turn on the news? To check your social media feed? To visit your favorite discussion group? Have you ever been so afraid of your own emotions and reactions that you isolate completely? Well, so has D. In today's episode, D tries something different…again. He hits the record button with absolutely no idea what he is going to talk about. No script. No topic. No agenda. What evolved is an open and honest discussion about struggle and success, media and emotions, and the lingering effects of benzos and BIND. I hope you'll check it out. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/just-press-record-a-discussion-of-emotions-online-triggers-and-bind-bfp106Video ID: BFP106 Chapters 00:00  Morning in the Office03:38  INTRODUCTION07:44  Hitting the Wall / Benzo Brain09:09  Emotions, News, and Social Media15:26  How We Process Emotions17:56  I Don't Know Anything20:02  Online, Offline, and BIND28:32  Road Trip Recap32:50  An Extremely Emotional Journey34:52  Abdominal Distension36:15  I've Come So Far38:15  When Did I Feel Healed?40:43  How Do You Help?43:27  All You Need is Love44:19  Everyone is Fighting a Great Battle47:20  I Should Wrap This Up48:20  No Recordings from the Trip50:13  Amazed at the Podcast Reach53:01  Wanna Play Parcheesi? Drums?54:24  Maybe a Little Fear55:21  Final Closing   Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein.— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by… Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: Have you ever been afraid to turn on the news? To check your social media feed? To visit your favorite discussion group? Have you ever been so afraid of your own emotions and reactions that you isolate completely? Well, so has D. In today's episode, D tries something different…again. He hits the record button with absolutely no idea what he is going to talk about. No script. No topic. No agenda. What evolved is an open and honest discussion about struggle and success, media and emotions, and the lingering effects of benzos and BIND. I hope you'll check it out. Welcome to Episode #106 Today, D just turned on the recorder and talked. No agenda or any plans as to what he was going to say. And this is what happened. Roll tape... Video ID: BFP106 Chapters 00:00  Morning in the Office03:38  INTRODUCTION07:44  Hitting the Wall / Benzo Brain09:09  Emotions, News, and Social Media15:26  How We Process Emotions17:56  I Don't Know Anything20:02  Online, Offline, and BIND28:32  Road Trip Recap32:50  An Extremely Emotional Journey34:52  Abdominal Distension36:15  I've Come So Far38:15  When Did I Feel Healed?40:43  How Do You Help?43:27  All You Need is Love44:19  Everyone is Fighting a Great Battle47:20  I Should Wrap This Up48:20  No Recordings from the Trip50:13  Amazed at the Podcast Reach53:01  Wanna Play Parcheesi? Drums?54:24  Maybe a Little Fear55:21  Final Closing  Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. — Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) — https://benzoaction.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC) — https://benzoinfo.com— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices — https://benzoreform.org Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Pressh...

COVID and BIND. Symptoms and setbacks. Isolation. Distraction. Memory loss. Relationships and loss. And of course, acceptance and success. What do these all have in common? Well, they all are related to benzos, and we will cover them today.   In today's episode, we revisit our mailbag and hear your comments, your questions, and your feedback. D also shares his 8-year anniversary and even invents a new word — contentness — without knowing it. More on that later. I hope you will join us for this latest episode.   https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/our-mailbag-sickness-setbacks-symptoms-and-self-esteem-bfp105Video ID: BFP105 Chapters 00:00 INTRO01:41 Our Old Format03:00 Feeling Better03:29 Mourning / Emotions05:45 My Benzo Anniversary06:55 Carolina Road Trip08:50 Setting Priorities at EA10:08 Back in the Basement10:54 Our Format11:34 That Silver Lining13:27 FEATURE: Mailbag15:02 Repeat Prescribing / Loving Oneself19:58 Isolation / Expanding the Bubble23:04 More Success Stories25:45 COVID, Symptoms, and Setbacks35:03 Cognitive Difficulties / Memory36:28 Relationships / Acceptance40:53 Podcast Stats42:28 Finding Contentment48:00 MOMENT OF PEACE  Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein.— Benzo Free Podcast #9: Anxiety the Beast of Benzo Withdrawal —https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/anxiety-the-beast-of-benzo-withdrawal-bfp009 — CDC COVID Symptoms — https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html— Book: Benzo Free — https://easinganxiety.com/book  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2023 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: COVID and BIND. Symptoms and setbacks. Isolation. Distraction. Memory loss. Relationships and loss. And of course, acceptance and success. What do these all have in common? Well, they all are related to benzos, and we will cover them today.   In today's episode, we revisit our mailbag and hear your comments, your questions, and your feedback. D also shares his 8-year anniversary and even invents a new word — contentness — without knowing it. More on that later. I hope you will join us for this latest episode.   NOTE: There is a lot of good content here, but some of the stories may be difficult to hear if you are easily triggered by stories of struggle in BIND. Welcome to Episode #105 Today, we return to our old format with an introduction, mailbag, and moment of peace. Our feature is our mailbag where we get to hear your comments and stories and feedback and other great stuff. Some of it is messy and difficult to hear, but it's real, it's BIND and it's important to share. I hope you find it helpful and informative. Take care. Video ID: BFP105 Chapters 00:00  INTRO01:41  Our Old Format03:00  Feeling Better03:29  Mourning / Emotions05:45  My Benzo Anniversary06:55  Carolina Road Trip08:50  Setting Priorities at EA10:08  Back in the Basement10:54  Our Format11:34  That Silver Lining13:27  FEATURE: Mailbag15:02  Repeat Prescribing / Loving Oneself19:58  Isolation / Expanding the Bubble23:04  More Success Stories25:45  COVID, Symptoms, and Setbacks35:03  Cognitive Difficulties / Memory36:28  Relationships / Acceptance40:53  Podcast Stats42:28  Finding Contentment48:00  MOMENT OF PEACE Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. — Benzo Free Podcast #9: Anxiety the Beast of Benzo Withdrawal —https://www.benzofree.org/podcast/anxiety-the-beast-of-benzo-withdrawal-bfp009/— CDC COVID Symptoms — https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html— Book: Benzo Free — https://easinganxiety.com/book Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it.

Share this post with others: Two benzo survivors. Two caregivers. Pizza. Cookies. And a covered porch in a rainstorm.  What else could you want? Join us for this very special and revealing conversation about living with benzos from two couples who know it intimately. In today's episode, we share our second benzo chat recorded on our recent road trip. On June 5th of this year, Shana and I joined Steve and Heather on a porch at their home in the great state of Iowa. The evening was delightful. We talked about benzos for over an hour and learned so much from each other. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did. Welcome to Episode #104 Welcome to our second benzo chat. This one was very unique. We stopped by to visit Steve and Heather on our way through Iowa and we had a wonderful time with them. The conversation was so good, I just had to record it. Thankfully, they were gracious enough to let me and I think it turned into a real gem. Thanks again to Steve and Heather for their hospitality and courage in being so honest. Video ID: BFP104 Chapters 0:00:00  Intro0:04:52  BENZO CHAT0:06:10  Steve's Benzo Story0:11:58  Caregivers0:12:52  Heather's Story0:16:11  Caregiver Self-Care0:18:21  It's OK to Not Be OK0:20:20  Discovering the Cause0:21:47  Wave Attacks0:23:51  Snipe Hunting0:24:19  Pushing Through0:25:39  Communication0:27:58  Drug Potency0:29:17  Advice Roundtable0:38:37  Communication0:42:48  Dinner in the Rain0:43:16  Support Systems0:45:32  Self-Care / Meditation0:46:39  We Get Better0:48:42  Happy Moments (Dad Jokes)0:55:15  Frustration / Irritation0:55:59  Enough Guilt to Go Around0:57:34  Setbacks & Limits0:59:15  Lowering the Bar1:01:10  More Info Available1:03:01  Last Words1:06:06  Closing Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO FREE / VIDEO PRESENTATION— “A New You: Life After Benzo Withdrawal” — https://youtu.be/Nm3EwJFeRTA REFERENCES FROM CHAT— Baylissa Frederick — https://baylissafrederick.com/— Jennifer Leigh — https://thrivewithdrjenn.com/ — Medicating Normal — https://medicatingnormal.com/ RECOMMENDED BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group: https://benzoaction.org— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological,

Two benzo survivors. Two caregivers. Pizza. Cookies. And a covered porch in a rainstorm.  What else could you want? Join us for this very special and revealing conversation about living with benzos from two couples who know it intimately. In today's episode, we share our second benzo chat recorded on our recent road trip. On June 5th of this year, Shana and I joined Steve and Heather on a porch at their home in the great state of Iowa. The evening was delightful. We talked about benzos for over an hour and learned so much from each other. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/the-dinner-party-caregivers-relationships-and-living-with-bind-bfp104Video ID: BFP104 Chapters 0:00:00 Intro0:04:52 BENZO CHAT0:06:10 Steve's Benzo Story0:11:58 Caregivers0:12:52 Heather's Story0:16:11 Caregiver Self-Care0:18:21 It's OK to Not Be OK0:20:20 Discovering the Cause0:21:47 Wave Attacks0:23:51 Snipe Hunting0:24:19 Pushing Through0:25:39 Communication0:27:58 Drug Potency0:29:17 Advice Roundtable0:38:37 Communication0:42:48 Dinner in the Rain0:43:16 Support Systems0:45:32 Self-Care / Meditation0:46:39 We Get Better0:48:42 Happy Moments (Dad Jokes)0:55:15 Frustration / Irritation0:55:59 Enough Guilt to Go Around0:57:34 Setbacks & Limits0:59:15 Lowering the Bar1:01:10 More Info Available1:03:01 Last Words1:06:06 Closing  Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO FREE / VIDEO PRESENTATION— “A New You: Life After Benzo Withdrawal” — https://youtu.be/Nm3EwJFeRTA REFERENCES FROM CHAT— Baylissa Frederick — https://baylissafrederick.com/— Jennifer Leigh — https://thrivewithdrjenn.com/ — Medicating Normal — https://medicatingnormal.com/ RECOMMENDED BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group: https://benzoaction.org— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: Enough about me — it's time to hear from you. Welcome to our very first “Benzo Chat.” An in-person, casual conversation with you, the champions living day in and day out with benzo dependence, withdrawal, and BIND. In our inaugural episode, we sit down with Rob in the great state of Oklahoma. We talk online forums, exercise, insomnia, diet, detox, cognitive dysfunction, and so much more. His story is a difficult one at times, but at its core, it's about hope — and we all could use a bit more of that now, couldn't we? I hope y'all enjoy it.

Share this post with others: What's it like being sick while in protracted benzo withdrawal, or BIND? Do you rest or push through it? Do you take medication? Antibiotics? Steroids? What if you're away from home? And what do you do to avoid getting sick next time? In today's episode, D shares his experience on the road battling a respiratory virus, along with a wave of symptoms from BIND. He also explores self-care, setting priorities in life, and finding some positivity in the entire experience. I hope you find it helpful.   Welcome to Episode #102 Today's episode may not be the most positive one, but I think it is necessary. Sometimes in life, we get down, we get sick, and we get depressed. For me, this was one of those times. I got through it and I'm doing better now, but it was a struggle and I wanted to share that with you since I know many of you have experienced similar challenges on your journey. Video ID: BFP102 Chapters 00:00  Preface03:31  Welcome04:18  Road Trip & Illness07:06  Benzo Chats07:37  Back in KC08:56  About this Episode10:37  Crazy Two Years13:50  Postponing Self-Care15:10  Prioritizing Life18:32  Good Morning20:00  Antibiotics and BIND23:02  Sick and Depressed26:04  Running Out of Kleenex28:32  A Different Fear of Commitment32:24  Panic at a Wedding38:33  Still Here, Still Sick40:44  Still, We Are Blessed43:00  The Importance of Self-Care48:00  Back Home in Colorado49:05  Finding the Positive54:27  Closing Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://benzoaction.org — The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological, or any other kind of personal or professional services. Health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits All music is provided by and licensed through Storyblocks (https://storyblocks.com). Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross

What's it like being sick while in protracted benzo withdrawal, or BIND? Do you rest or push through it? Do you take medication? Antibiotics? Steroids? What if you're away from home? And what do you do to avoid getting sick next time? In today's episode, D shares his experience on the road battling a respiratory virus, along with a wave of symptoms from BIND. He also explores self-care, setting priorities in life, and finding some positivity in the entire experience. I hope you find it helpful. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/on-the-road-with-benzos-stress-sickness-and-symptoms-bfp102Video ID: BFP102 Chapters 00:00 Preface03:31 Welcome04:18 Road Trip & Illness07:06 Benzo Chats07:37 Back in KC08:56 About this Episode10:37 Crazy Two Years13:50 Postponing Self-Care15:10 Prioritizing Life18:32 Good Morning20:00 Antibiotics and BIND23:02 Sick and Depressed26:04 Running Out of Kleenex28:32 A Different Fear of Commitment32:24 Panic at a Wedding38:33 Still Here, Still Sick40:44 Still, We Are Blessed43:00 The Importance of Self-Care48:00 Back Home in Colorado49:05 Finding the Positive54:27 Closing  Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided thereinBENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://benzoaction.org — The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: Do we truly recover from protracted benzo withdrawal (BIND)? What does that look like? What about from other psych medications? Can we realistically get back to “normal” after all of this? And if so, how? Join D and Dr. Jenn for this intimate conversation.   In today's episode, we welcome therapist and benzo coach Jennifer Leigh back to the podcast. Dr. Jenn has helped many individuals recover from withdrawal and BIND and we'll get her take on several pressing questions. We'll share a few updates, talk a bit about her story, and hear from a few of you. I hope you enjoy it. Welcome to Episode #101 Welcome to the first installment of our next 100 episodes of the Benzo Free Podcast. Today, we welcome Dr. Jennifer Leigh back to the show as our co-host. Together, Dr. Jenn and D dive into the mailbag, share our stories, look at current activities in the benzo community, and discuss BIND and its consequences at length. I think you'll enjoy it, so please check it out. Video ID: BFP101 Chapters 00:00  Update Announcement02:08  What's New with Dr. Jenn08:53  Doctor, Therapist, and Peer Training11:17  So Much Going On11:56  BIND Definition14:34  Today's Format15:41  MAILBAG15:47  What About Other Psych Meds?19:47  Online Support32:18  FEATURE: Chat with Jenn32:25  Jenn's Benzo Story41:52  A New and Better You44:02  Are You Symptom-Free?46:03  Finding That Connection46:37  Are Benzos Different in BIND?48:19  Is Klonopin (clonazepam) Different?48:57  D's Current Status in BIND50:36  Finding Acceptance51:40  5 Stages of Grief52:56  Getting Back to Normal?55:19  A New and Better You (Take 2)57:54  Why Don't Doctors Know This?59:25  CLOSING Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTRODUCTION— CME Lunch and Learn Videos: https://corxconsortium.org/bz-webinars FEATURE (Jennifer Leigh)— Benzo Withdrawal Help (w/ Jennifer Leigh): https://benzowithdrawalhelp.com BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://benzoaction.org — The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com SUPPORT INFO— The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/ashton-manual— D's Book (Benzo Free) — https://www.benzofree.org/features/book Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer All content provided on this YouTube channel is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical or health advice. The author of the content provided on this channel is not engaged in rendering medical, health, psychological,

Do we truly recover from protracted benzo withdrawal (BIND)? What does that look like? What about from other psych medications? Can we realistically get back to “normal” after all of this? And if so, how? Join D and Dr. Jenn for this intimate conversation.   In today's episode, we welcome therapist and benzo coach Jennifer Leigh back to the podcast. Dr. Jenn has helped many individuals recover from withdrawal and BIND and we'll get her take on several pressing questions. We'll share a few updates, talk a bit about her story, and hear from a few of you. I hope you enjoy it. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzo-community-healing-and-support-w-jennifer-leigh-bfp101Video ID: BFP101 Chapters 00:00 Update Announcement02:08 What's New with Dr. Jenn08:53 Doctor, Therapist, and Peer Training11:17 So Much Going On11:56 BIND Definition14:34 Today's Format15:41 MAILBAG15:47 What About Other Psych Meds?19:47 Online Support32:18 FEATURE: Chat with Jenn32:25 Jenn's Benzo Story41:52 A New and Better You44:02 Are You Symptom Free?46:03 Finding That Connection46:37 Are Benzos Different in BIND?48:19 Is Klonopin (clonazepam) Different?48:57 D's Current Status in BIND50:36 Finding Acceptance51:40 5 Stages of Grief52:56 Getting Back to Normal?55:19 A New and Better You (Take 2)57:54 Why Don't Doctors Know This?59:25 CLOSING  Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTRODUCTION— CME Lunch and Learn Videos: https://corxconsortium.org/bz-webinars FEATURE (Jennifer Leigh)— Benzo Withdrawal Help (w/ Jennifer Leigh): https://benzowithdrawalhelp.com BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

CONGRATULATIONS! We made it! Episode 100! Thank you all for getting us here. Pour the champagne (non-alcoholic of course), gather around, reminisce a bit, and let's celebrate. And how do we do that? Well, with stories of success, of course. In today's episode, we share several positive stories from individuals who have struggled with BIND (benzo withdrawal) and who have found success. We also look back at our past 99 episodes, share a new research publication, and provide a few updates about the podcast and website. Please join us for a bit of nostalgia, a bit of sincerity, and a bit of fun. NOTE: This episode was previously published. It has since been taken offline, edited, and re-posted. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/our-100th-episode-success-stories-sincerity-and-some-fun-edited-bfp100Video ID: BFP100 Chapters 00:00  Episode 1 Opening01:59  INTRODUCTION03:55  Benzo Survey Paper Published06:19  Uploading Archived Episodes06:46  Our 100th Episode07:54  The Past 99 Titles19:33  What's Next for EA21:22  CME Lunch and Learn23:57  FEATURE: Success Stories25:15  Cam's Story (Finding Hope)31:12  Susanna's Story (Time to Heal)34:47  Connie's Story (Doing So Well)39:01  D's Story (I'm Happy)41:34  Plan B: A New You44:11  Closing  Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTRODUCTION— Benzo Survey Research Paper — https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzo-survey-research-published Finlayson, Alistair J. Reid, Jane Macoubrie, Christy Huff, D. E. Foster, and Peter R. Martin. “Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet Survey.” Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. January 2022. doi:10.1177/2F20451253221082386.— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) / CME Lunch and Learn Sessions (D Foster & Christy Huff are presenting the 3rd session on May 17th) — https://corxconsortium.org/bz-webinars.— Easing Anxiety YouTube Channel — https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com SUPPORT INFO— The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/ashton — D's Book (Benzo Free) — https://easinganxiety.com/book  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: CONGRATULATIONS! We made it! Episode 100! Thank you all for getting us here. Pour the champagne (non-alcoholic of course), gather around, reminisce a bit, and let's celebrate. And how do we do that? Well, with stories of success, of course. In today's episode, we share several positive stories from individuals who have struggled with BIND (benzo withdrawal) and who have found success. We also look back at our past 99 episodes, share a new research publication, and provide a few updates about the podcast and website. Please join us for a bit of nostalgia, a bit of sincerity, and a bit of fun. Welcome to Episode #100 Can you believe we made it to 100 episodes? And you got us here. Thank you all so much for all of the support over the past three years. This has been an amazing journey, and I am very grateful that you came along for the ride. I hope you enjoy today's podcast, and I look forward to the next 100. Take care. Video ID: BFP100 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:24  The Overwhelm05:57  Podcast Schedule06:19  Benzo Newsletters08:53  MAILBAG08:56  More Symptoms After Last Dose?13:48  Pins and Needles Common?17:21  BENZO STORY25:18  FEATURE: What Is BIND?25:59  Definitions, Terms & Confusion30:01  Benzo Survey Publication33:14  Alliance Sponsorship35:10  The Nosology Paper37:36  Why this Term? Will it Stick?40:44  BIND vs. Withdrawal43:02  Physiological Changes44:16  Changing Terminology46:14  Doctors See WD, not BIND47:02  Progress Being Made48:16  Helping Out Helps53:20  MOMENT OF PEACE Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTRODUCTION— Benzo Survey Research Paper — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/benzo-survey-research-published —Finlayson, Alistair J. Reid, Jane Macoubrie, Christy Huff, D. E. Foster, and Peter R. Martin. “Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet Survey.” Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. January 2022. Doi:10.1177/2F20451253221082386.— Benzo Free Podcast (Complete List of Episodes) — https://www.benzofree.org/features/benzofreepodcast/archives— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG) / CME Lunch and Learn Sessions (D Foster & Christy Huff are presenting the 3rd session on May 17th) — https://corxconsortium.org/bz-webinars.— Benzo Free YouTube Channel — https://www.youtube.com/benzofreeBENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com SUPPORT INFO— The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/ashton-manual— D's Book (Benzo Free) — https://www.benzofree.org/features/book Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways:

Share this post with others: What do we call this condition so many of us have been dealing with for so long? Benzo withdrawal? Protracted Withdrawal? Persistent Benzo Withdrawal? Benzo Toxicity? Benzo Brain Injury? Or something completely different? In today's episode of the podcast, we introduce a new term to many of you — Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND). We look at what it means, where it came from, and why we believe it's important? We also answer a couple of questions and share a benzo story. Hope you enjoy it. Welcome to Episode #99 Hello everyone. This is a slightly different episode as you may have noticed. Today we introduce a new term for what so many of us are going through. Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction. Or BIND. We're hoping it may catch and it will be included in some upcoming research papers. We also answer a few questions from our mailbag and share a benzo story. Thanks for listening in. Video ID: BFP099 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:24  The Overwhelm05:57  Podcast Schedule06:19  Benzo Newsletters08:53  MAILBAG08:56  More Symptoms After Last Dose?13:48  Pins and Needles Common?17:21  BENZO STORY25:18  FEATURE: What Is BIND?25:59  Definitions, Terms & Confusion30:01  Benzo Survey Publication33:14  Alliance Sponsorship35:10  The Nosology Paper37:36  Why this Term? Will it Stick?40:44  BIND vs. Withdrawal43:02  Physiological Changes44:16  Changing Terminology46:14  Doctors See WD, not BIND47:02  Progress Being Made48:16  Helping Out Helps53:20  MOMENT OF PEACE Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com SUPPORT INFO— The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/blog/ashton-manual— BIC: “What Is Benzodiazepine Protracted Withdrawal?” — https://www.benzoinfo.com/protracted-withdrawal-syndrome MEDICAL REFERENCES— Ashton, H. (1995). Protracted withdrawal from benzodiazepines: The post-withdrawal syndrome. Psychiatric Annals, 25(3), 174-179. https://doi.org/10.3928/0048-5713-19950301-11/.— Ashton H. Protracted withdrawal syndromes from benzodiazepines. J Subst Abuse Treat. 1991;8(1-2):19-28. doi: 10.1016/0740-5472(91)90023-4. PMID: 1675688. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1675688.— Pétursson H. The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Addiction. 1994 Nov;89(11):1455-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.1994.tb03743.x. PMID: 7841856. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7841856. Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.

What do we call this condition so many of us have been dealing with for so long? Benzo withdrawal? Protracted Withdrawal? Persistent Benzo Withdrawal? Benzo Toxicity? Benzo Brain Injury? Or something completely different? In today's episode of the podcast, we introduce a new term to many of you — Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND). We look at what it means, where it came from, and why we believe it's important. We also answer a couple of questions and share a benzo story. Hope you enjoy it. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/benzodiazepine-induced-neurological-dysfunction-bind-an-introduction-bfp099Video ID: BFP099 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:24  The Overwhelm05:57  Podcast Schedule06:19  Benzo Newsletters08:53  MAILBAG08:56  More Symptoms After Last Dose?13:48  Pins and Needles Common?17:21  BENZO STORY25:18  FEATURE: What Is BIND?25:59  Definitions, Terms & Confusion30:01  Benzo Survey Publication33:14  Alliance Sponsorship35:10  The Nosology Paper37:36  Why this Term? Will it Stick?40:44  BIND vs. Withdrawal43:02  Physiological Changes44:16  Changing Terminology46:14  Doctors See WD, not BIND47:02  Progress Being Made48:16  Helping Out Helps53:20  MOMENT OF PEACE  Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com SUPPORT INFO— The Ashton Manual — https://easinganxiety.com/ashton — BIC: “What Is Benzodiazepine Protracted Withdrawal?” — https://www.benzoinfo.com/protracted-withdrawal-syndrome MEDICAL REFERENCES— Ashton, H. (1995). Protracted withdrawal from benzodiazepines: The post-withdrawal syndrome. Psychiatric Annals, 25(3), 174-179. https://doi.org/10.3928/0048-5713-19950301-11/.— Ashton H. Protracted withdrawal syndromes from benzodiazepines. J Subst Abuse Treat. 1991;8(1-2):19-28. doi: 10.1016/0740-5472(91)90023-4. PMID: 1675688. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1675688.— Pétursson H. The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Addiction. 1994 Nov;89(11):1455-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1360-0443.1994.tb03743.x. PMID: 7841856. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7841856.  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

What is mindset, and why is it so important in benzo withdrawal? Are setbacks common, and how do you work through them? Are benzos too limited now? Is it okay to wait to withdraw? Is this permanent? These questions and so much more. In today's episode, I dive into our mailbag again and listen to you. Your questions. Your comments. Your stories. You are the heart of this podcast, and these are my favorite episodes. I also share progress in the benzo community and my personal struggles with stress, self-care, and grieving. I hope you'll join us. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/our-mailbag-setbacks-symptoms-stories-and-success-bfp098Video ID: BFP098 Chapters 00:00 INTRODUCTION02:07  How We Grieve06:36  I'm Back07:12 Progress at BAWG10:02 Hard to Move On12:27 BENZO STORIES13:48 Deanna's Story18:36  Trevor's Story27:35  MAILBAG28:40 When to Withdraw30:58 Access to Benzos34:07  Head Pressure in WD36:51 Setbacks in WD41:01 A New You in WD45:13 Does Everyone Heal?49:45 Lies Our Brains Tell Us52:50 MOMENT OF PEACE  Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Best Practices (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com— Benzo Warrior Group: https://benzowarrior.com— Bloom into Wellness (Baylissa Frederick): https://baylissa.com RECOVERY TRAINING— Choices Recovery Training: https://www.choicesrecoverytrainings.com— Embark PCA Recovery (Training): https://www.embarkpca.net/classes OTHER REFERENCES— The 5 Stages of Grief (University of Washington): https://www.washington.edu/counseling/2020/06/08/the-stages-of-grief-accepting-the-unacceptable  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross Meditation Music— Title: “Dreaming of Floating”— Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: What is mindset, and why is it so important in benzo withdrawal? Are setbacks common, and how do you work through them? Are benzos too limited now? Is it okay to wait to withdraw? Is this permanent? These questions and so much more. In today's episode, I dive into our mailbag again and listen to you. Your questions. Your comments. Your stories. You are the heart of this podcast, and these are my favorite episodes. I'll also share progress in the benzo community and my personal struggles with stress, self-care, and grieving. I hope you'll join us. Welcome to Episode #98 We're back and at full force. Sorry for the delay. Today's episode is all about you. Your input is the heart of this podcast, and in episodes like this one, we dedicate the whole show to that. Thanks for all of your amazing feedback. Video ID: BFP098 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION02:07  How We Grieve06:36  I'm Back07:12  Progress at BAWG10:02  Hard to Move On12:27  BENZO STORIES13:48  Deanna's Story18:36  Trevor's Story27:35  MAILBAG28:40  When to Withdraw30:58  Access to Benzos34:07  Head Pressure in WD36:51  Setbacks in WD41:01  A New You in WD45:13  Does Everyone Heal?49:45  Lies Our Brains Tell Us52:50  MOMENT OF PEACE Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. BENZO SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Best Practices (BIC): https://benzoinfo.com— Benzo Warrior Group: https://benzowarrior.com— Bloom into Wellness (Baylissa Frederick): https://baylissa.com RECOVERY TRAINING— Choices Recovery Training: https://www.choicesrecoverytrainings.com— Embark PCA Recovery (Training): https://www.embarkpca.net/classes OTHER REFERENCES— The 5 Stages of Grief (University of Washington): https://www.washington.edu/counseling/2020/06/08/the-stages-of-grief-accepting-the-unacceptable OTHER REFERENCES— The 5 Stages of Grief (University of Washington): https://www.washington.edu/counseling/2020/06/08/the-stages-of-grief-accepting-the-unacceptable Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree— INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/easinganxiety PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Feedback We'd love to hear from you! The Benzo Free Podcast is a community podcast and we need your input to help it grow and improve. You can tell us what you think in the following ways: Fill out our Feedback Form at https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedbackEmail us at feedback@easinganxiety.com Comment on one of our videos or posts. Disclaimer The Benzo Free Podcast is for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. Never dis­regard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Withdrawal, tapering, or any change in dosage of benzodiazepines, nonbenzo­diazepines, thienodiazepines, or any other prescription drugs should only be done under the direct supervision of a licensed physician.

Dr. Alexis Ritvo is a board-certified addiction psychiatrist and assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She is also Medical Director for the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices and Co-Chair for the Benzodiazepine Action Work Group.In Part I of our conversation with Dr. Ritvo, we dive into the world of benzo advocacy and outreach. We discuss ongoing work in the benzo community including guidance documentation, prescriber education, peer support training, and so much more. I hope you enjoy it. https://www.easinganxiety.com/post/a-psychiatrists-perspective-part-1-of-2-bfp096Video ID: BFP096 Chapters 00:00 INTRODUCTION15:30 INTERVIEW Intro17:51 Dr. Ritvo's Background21:05 Learning About Benzo Dependence23:58 Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG)28:33 Guidance Documents31:07 Prescriber Education36:28 Peer Support Training41:10 Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices43:20 Alliance Projects48:23 CLOSING  Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Easing Anxiety of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTRODUCTION— Benzo Warrior (Website): https://www.benzowarrior.com— Benzo Warrior (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/BenzoWarriorGroup INTERVIEW WITH DR. RITVO— The University of Colorado School of Medicine: https://medschool.cuanschutz.edu— The Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices: https://www.benzoreform.org— Benzodiazepine Action Work Group (BAWG): https://corxconsortium.org/work-groups/benzodiazepine  The PodcastThe Benzo Free Podcast provides information, support, and community to those who struggle with the long-term effects of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium) and Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata). WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.comMAILING LIST: https://www.easinganxiety.com/subscribe YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@easinganx DISCLAIMERAll content provided by Easing Anxiety is for general informational purposes only and should never be considered medical advice. Any health-related information provided is not a substitute for medical advice and should not be used to diagnose or treat health problems, or to prescribe any medical devices or other remedies. Never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Please visit our website for our complete disclaimer at https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. CREDITSMusic provided / licensed by Storyblocks Audio — https://www.storyblocks.com Benzo Free Theme — Title: “Walk in the Park” — Artist: Neil Cross PRODUCTIONEasing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com ©2022 Denim Mountain Press – All Rights Reserved

Share this post with others: Dr. Alexis Ritvo is a board-certified addiction psychiatrist and assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She is also Medical Director for the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices and Co-Chair for the Benzodiazepine Action Work Group.  In Part II of our conversation with Dr. Ritvo, we dive into the world of the benzo experience that so many of us face as patients. We discuss how to find a doctor, the return of emotions, finding confidence and a stable mindset, therapy, mindfulness, and even the mammalian diving reflex. Lots of great info. Please check it out. Listen to Part I: https://www.benzofree.org/podcast/a-psychiatrists-perspective-part-1-of-2-bfp096/ Welcome to Episode #97 My conversation with Dr. Alexis Ritvo was full of key information on advocacy, raising awareness, finding a doctor, getting support, symptoms, and so much more. We split this one into two episodes since there is so many topics to cover. Listen in to the conversation. Video ID: BFP097 Chapters 00:00  INTRODUCTION04:45  INTERVIEW Intro06:30  Finding a Doctor10:40  Prescribing by GPs14:15  Moving Past the Anger15:54  Return of Emotions18:19  Self Confidence19:37  A Stable Mindset22:55  Therapy, Medication, Etc.25:37  Mindfulness27:04  Mammalian Diving Reflex30:06  Polydrugging35:53  When to Prescribe Benzos40:46  Science of Benzo Dependence44:30  Benzos and Alcohol47:08  Words of Advice51:54  CLOSING Episode Resources The following resource links are provided as a courtesy to our listeners. They do not constitute an endorsement by Benzo Free of the resource or any recommendations or advice provided therein. INTERVIEW WITH DR. RITVO— BIC's Benzo Cooperative Doctors: https://www.benzoinfo.com/doctors— VA - Mindfulness Awareness: https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTH/circle-of-health/mindful-awareness.asp— Mammalian Diving Reflex (NCBI): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC376809— Mammalian Diving Reflex (Psychology Today): https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-reality-gen-z/202106/1-quick-way-stop-panic-attack-in-its-tracks Site Links VISIT US ONLINE— WEBSITE: https://www.easinganxiety.com— YOUTUBE (Easing Anxiety): https://www.youtube.com/easinganxiety— YOUTUBE (Benzo Free): https://www.youtube.com/benzofree— INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/easinganxiety PLEASE LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK— COMMENT: On this video in YouTube— COMMENT: On the blog post on our website— FEEDBACK FORM: https://www.easinganxiety.com/feedback— EMAIL: feedback@easinganxiety.com SUPPORT US— Make a Donation: https://www.easinganxiety.com/donate Podcast Summary This podcast is dedicated to those who struggle with side effects, dependence, and withdrawal from benzos, a group of drugs from the benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine classes, better known as anti-anxiety drugs, sleeping pills, sedatives, and minor tranquilizers. Their common brand names include Ambien, Ativan, Klonopin, Lunesta, Valium, and Xanax. Disclaimer The Benzo Free Podcast is for informational purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. Never dis­regard medical advice or delay in seeking it. Withdrawal, tapering, or any change in dosage of benzodiazepines, nonbenzo­diazepines, thienodiazepines, or any other prescription drugs should only be done under the direct supervision of a licensed physician. Please visit our official disclaimer for more information: https://www.easinganxiety.com/disclaimer. Music Credits Benzo Free Theme— Title: "Walk in the Park"— Artist: Neil Cross— Provided by: Storyblocks Audio  (https://www.storyblocks.com) Production Credits Easing Anxiety is produced by…Denim Mountain Presshttps://www.denimmountainpress.com