Valium is a drug that’s useful for treating occasional anxiety and some other conditions. However, due to its calming effects, it’s often misused, which can lead to dependence and addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, you’re not alone. Help is just a phone call away. Our Valium hotline is available to offer support, guidance and immediate assistance.
What Is Valium and How Commonly Is It Abused?
Valium is the most common brand name for the medication diazepam. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs, which slow down brain activity to produce a sense of calm. This effect means the drug is useful as a short-term treatment for acute anxiety or to relieve the fear associated with phobias, such as fear of flying. Its sedating effects can help people stay calm and relaxed during dental work and other medical procedures.
Physicians use Valium to treat muscle spasms in people who have conditions such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and spinal cord injuries. It can also be used to control seizures — for example, in people who have epilepsy.
While effective when used as prescribed, this medication is frequently abused due to its sedative effects. The potential for addiction increases when the drug is taken in higher doses or over an extended period, leading to physical and mental dependency.
As of 2017, benzodiazepines such as Valium were the third most commonly misused substance in the United States. The growing problem of addiction highlights the importance of accessible support and information about diazepam abuse.
Dangers of Valium Abuse
Misusing Valium can have serious physical and psychological consequences. The risks of addiction include physical dependence, where the body becomes reliant on diazepam, making it difficult to function without the drug. Over time, the brain reduces its natural production of calming neurotransmitters, causing the body to need the medication just to feel stable. Without it, the individual may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, tremors, sweating, irritability and even seizures in severe cases.
Long-term use of this medication can negatively affect memory, coordination and focus. With excessive use, an individual may find it difficult to concentrate, solve problems or recall recent events. These cognitive deficits can interfere with daily life, affecting work performance, relationships and the ability to carry out routine tasks.
Taking Valium in high doses can lead to a dangerous overdose. The risk of overdose significantly increases when diazepam is mixed with other drugs, such as alcohol or opioids. In 2021, almost 14% of opioid-related deaths also involved benzodiazepines. These substances compound Valium’s effects, which can lead to a dangerous slowing of breathing, heart rate and brain activity. In severe cases, this can cause the person to stop breathing, become unconscious or fall into a coma. It can even result in death.
It’s essential to seek help as soon as possible to avoid these dangers. Our Valium helpline provides confidential advice and can connect you with professionals who understand your needs.
Challenges of Valium Withdrawal
One of the biggest hurdles for those addicted to Valium is withdrawal. Common withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Seizures in severe cases
Given the risks associated with withdrawal, professional guidance is critical. Our hotline can help you understand the next steps for safe detoxification.
Treatment Options for Valium Addiction
Overcoming Valium addiction is possible, but it requires the right treatment plan. No two cases of addiction are exactly the same, so treatment must address the unique circumstances of the person seeking help.
Medical Detox
The first step in treatment is medical detox. This involves a supervised environment where withdrawal symptoms can be safely managed. Because Valium withdrawal can cause severe and even life-threatening symptoms, such as seizures, it’s essential to have medical professionals monitoring the detox process. Detox allows the body to rid itself of the drug while ensuring the person is as comfortable and safe as possible. Medications may be used to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications during this phase.
Inpatient Rehab
After detox, the individual may enter an inpatient rehab program, which offers intensive therapy in a residential setting. Inpatient rehab provides 24-7 support, making it ideal for those who need a structured environment to focus entirely on their recovery. This type of Valium addiction help usually includes individual and group therapy, medical care and holistic treatments.
Outpatient Rehab
For those who may not require the intensity of inpatient rehab, outpatient rehab is a flexible alternative. This option allows a person to receive professional care and therapy while continuing with daily responsibilities such as work or school. Outpatient rehab offers similar services to inpatient programs, including counseling and support groups, but with the added benefit of allowing the individual to stay in their own home. It’s recommended for those with a strong support system and less severe addictions.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is another key component of diazepam addiction treatment. Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy teach patients to recognize and change harmful thinking and behavior patterns. Through counseling, individuals can learn coping strategies for managing triggers and cravings as well as how to handle stress without relying on drugs.
When to Call the Valium Hotline
If you’re wondering if you should call the hotline, you probably should. Call us today at the National Rehab Hotline if you:
- Are struggling to control your Valium use
- Are experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Have a loved one showing signs of Valium dependency
- Need guidance on treatment options for Valium addiction
Reach Out for Help
Calling the Valium helpline could be the first step toward a healthier, addiction-free life. Call us now at the National Rehab Hotline to get the help and support you need to recover from Valium addiction.