Benzodiazepines (benzos) are minor tranquilising drugs predominantly prescribed for anxiety or insomnia. It is well recognised that there is a significant risk of dependence on benzos when taken regularly and for longer than 4 weeks. Stopping benzos can be difficult and and many people require professional assistance and support to withdraw from their benzos. Reconnexion is a free, state wide service specialising in treating benzodiazepine dependency, anxiety disorders, insomnia and depression.
Our experienced counsellors will work with you and your GP to design a gradual reduction that suits your needs. Your counsellor will meet regularly with you to work on managing any withdrawal symptoms you may experience, as well as supporting you to overcome issues that emerge as you reduce your benzos such as anxiety, insomnia and depression.
Before you begin counselling, you will be stepped through the intake process over the phone. Your first counselling appointment(s) will focus on assessment to ensure you remain very much in control of the process. Most clients then have regular weekly or fortnightly appointments. The length of treatment required varies from person to person – for some people it is relatively quick and straightforward but for others it may take many months.
The Benzodiazepine program is a statewide program funded by DHHS Victoria and there is no cost for clients to use the service.
I want to begin by saying that this IS a recovery story, and for all of you out there who are still suffering to varying degrees, please don’t give up.
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Sarah, the mother of two young children, was originally prescribed a benzodiazepine after the death of her child. After some months, she found herself gradually increasing the dose in an attempt to manage escalating symptoms of anxiety.
Read moreReconnexion collaborated with Federation University to develop an online self-guided benzodiazepine tapering program called BDZ Digital Health. Early evidence shows BDZ Digital Health is just as effective at supporting individuals to safely cease their benzodiazepine or z-drug as face-to-face interventions (like Reconnexion’s benzo counselling program) making it a great alternative for individuals who cannot access our program or who want to do a self-guided taper.
Our experienced counsellors will work with you and your GP to design a gradual reduction that suits your needs. Your counsellor will meet regularly with you to work on managing any withdrawal symptoms you may experience, as well as supporting you to overcome issues that emerge as you reduce your benzos such as anxiety, insomnia and depression.
Our counsellorsIf you wish to talk with our support line, make an enquiry or make an appointment to see a counsellor, call 1300 273 266.
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