Valium is the brand name for diazepam, a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. Taking Valium for more than four months, or abusing it regularly for significant periods of time, can lead to physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, Valium withdrawal can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so it’s important to detox under medical supervision.
This article explores what to expect at a Valium detox program in Pompano Beach. You will learn:
- What causes Valium dependence and withdrawal
- What withdrawal symptoms to expect
- How a medical detox center can help
If you or a loved one struggle with addiction and need immediate assistance, please contact our team at First Step Behavioral Health today.
Understanding Valium Dependence and Withdrawal
Valium works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that helps regulate the central nervous system. In doing so, the drug produces a strong calming and relaxing effect.
With regular use, the brain begins relying on Valium or similar drugs to produce these calming effects. This leads to dependence, where the body needs the drug just to maintain normal function. When someone tries to reduce or stop taking Valium, the brain can’t immediately start producing enough of its natural calming chemicals, creating a “void” that causes withdrawal symptoms.
Common symptoms of Valium withdrawal are:
- Anxiety
- Headache
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Muscle pain
- Twitching
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Reduced appetite
- Heart palpitations
- Confusion
- Severe anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Hallucinations
- Delirium
- Seizures
Once physical dependence has set in, Valium is no longer just something the person uses to relieve occasional stress. Instead, they may need it to get through daily activities without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. For many users, this cycle is difficult to break without help, as both the withdrawal discomfort and the brain’s reliance on the drug make stopping or reducing use challenging.
Valium Detox Programs: What to Expect
Valium detox programs provide a safe, medically supervised setting in which people can detox from Valium without worrying about the potential for relapse or severe withdrawal symptoms.
Intake and Assessment
Detox begins with intake during which clients sign paperwork and are admitted to the facility. Promptly afterward, they meet with a team member to begin the assessment process. During the assessment, clients talk to a healthcare professional about their Valium use, medical history, and any other health issues. This step helps the team understand their unique needs and plan the right level of care.
Medical Stabilization
During detox, medical staff monitors clients closely to manage any withdrawal symptoms and keep them safe. In some cases, medications may be used to make the process more comfortable.
The goal of this phase is to help the body adjust without Valium while ensuring individuals are as comfortable as possible. However, in many cases, stopping Valium cold turkey is not a good idea because it can lead to serious, sometimes life-threatening symptoms like seizures. As a result, individuals are often tapered off the medication slowly. Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, their dose is gradually reduced until it is safe to discontinue it completely.
Residential detox programs provide 24-hour support during this phase of treatment. Outpatient detox programs may require clients to check in daily for medications and therapy.
Therapy & Support
Medical stabilization is paired with comprehensive therapy and support. Clients start meeting with counselors and support groups to gain coping tools, emotional support, and a chance to connect with others going through similar experiences. These types of support can help improve treatment retention, reduce cravings, and promote better treatment outcomes.
Treatment Planning
As detox progresses and withdrawal symptoms subside, clients work with their therapist or case manager to create a plan for continued treatment after detox. This plan could include inpatient or outpatient rehab, counseling, sober living, treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders, and support groups. Continued treatment after detox is crucial for preventing relapse.
Does Insurance Cover Detox?
Yes, health insurance plans cover detox, including detox for Valium and other types of benzodiazepine withdrawal. Coverage typically depends on your specific plan and the provider’s network. Detox is often considered a necessary medical treatment, especially when withdrawal symptoms could be severe or dangerous, so insurance companies often classify it as an essential health benefit.
If your insurance requires you to stay in-network, going to an in-network facility or detox center usually reduces out-of-pocket costs. Contact our admissions team today to verify your insurance coverage!
Start Your Recovery at Our Pompano Beach Valium Detox Center
First Step Behavioral Health is a licensed dual-diagnosis long-term addiction treatment facility that is accredited by the Joint Commission. We focus on the physiological rebalancing of the individual through medical, physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual care. While our detox center serves as a place for individuals to begin their recovery, we also offer a complete continuum of care design to support our clients at every stage of their recovery.
To learn more about our treatment programs or to get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment, please contact us today!
References:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Valium
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Diazepam
- NIH: The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome
