Podcasts by The Benzo Free Podcast

Things I Learned Teaching Benzo Peer Training from 2023-11-22T18:47:59

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 o...

Conversation with Dr. Doryn Chervin: Benzos, BIND, Organizations, and Updates from 2023-11-13T11:00:39

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 beh...

Seeking Slumber: A Very Early Benzo Morning from 2023-11-10T00:53:14

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, grati...

Our Mailbag: Symptoms, Science, Socialization and Success from 2023-09-08T13:42:33

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 d...

Lazy Morning on the Patio: Updates, Community, Compassion, and Coaching from 2023-08-06T20:49

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-scri...

The BIND Roundtable (Benzodiazepine Survey Research Team) from 2023-06-30T11:01

Join the Benzodiazepine Survey Research Team for a lively roundtable discussion about their research, the findings from the survey, and their latest paper which formally introduces the term benz...

Conversation with Podcaster Naftal Benisty (Benzo Tired) from 2023-06-05T21:55

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 benzodiazepin...

Who Am I Now? Confidence and Self-Esteem in Benzo Withdrawal (BIND) from 2023-05-12T13:01

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 c...

Rx Road Trip (Final): Life’s Detours from 2023-04-17T20:21

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Final) / Presentation Cancellation, Vacation Reschedule, Benzo Community Activity, Social Media Effects, and Rollin’ with the Changes

Listen

Rx Road Trip (Day 5-6): Conference Day 1 / Symptom Management from 2023-04-12T19:53

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...

Rx Road Trip (Day 4): Limitations and Boundaries from 2023-04-09T21:41

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

Listen

Rx Road Trip (Day 3): People on the Roadside from 2023-04-09T18:47

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

Listen

Rx Road Trip (Day 2): Benzos, Confidence, and Indecision from 2023-04-08T11:26

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.

Listen

Rx Road Trip (Day 1): Series Intro from 2023-04-08T10:24

Road Trip to the Rx Summit in Atlanta (Day 1) / Denver to Salina, Kansas / Series introduction, why I like road trips, a friendly voice.

Listen

Conversation with Benzo Coach David Powers (Part 2 of 2) from 2023-04-01T12:07

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,...

Conversation with Benzo Coach David Powers (Part 1 of 2) from 2023-04-01T11:53

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,...

When COVID Meets BIND: How Does Long COVID Affect Benzo Withdrawal? from 2023-03-12T10:31

What happens when COVID meets BIND? What happens when someone in protracted benzodiazepine withdrawal gets long COVID? Does it set off a wave? Does it make their benzo symptoms worse? Tune in fo...

Our Mailbag: Insomnia, Alcohol, Tinnitus, and BIND from 2023-02-03T17:48

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...

Z-drugs (The Other Benzos): An In-Depth Look at Ambien, Lunesta, and Sonata from 2022-12-01T17:12

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 disc...

Conversation with Stanford Psychiatrist Anna Lembke, MD from 2022-11-06T08:55

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, find...

Benzos&Surgery: A Journey of Anxiety, Recovery, Medication, and Success (Part 2 of 2) from 2022-10-20T18:23

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 hi...

Benzos&Surgery: A Journey of Anxiety, Recovery, Medication, and Success (Part 1 of 2) from 2022-10-20T18:03

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 hi...

The FACTS: What Do We Really Know About Benzos and BIND? from 2022-10-01T18:31

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 i...

Just Press Record: A Discussion of Emotions, Online Triggers, and BIND from 2022-09-16T17:00

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 ...

Our Mailbag: Sickness, Setbacks, Symptoms, and Self-Esteem from 2022-08-21T19:04

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 re...

The Dinner Party: Caregivers, Relationships, and Living with BIND (Benzo Chat) from 2022-08-09T16:57

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 ben...

Benzo Chat (Rob from Oklahoma): “Getting Back into Life” from 2022-07-17T18:08

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, w...

On the Road with Benzos: Stress, Sickness, and Symptoms from 2022-07-02T08:49

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...

Benzo Community, Healing, and Support (w/ Jennifer Leigh) from 2022-06-04T10:58

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 i...

Our 100th Episode! — Success Stories, Sincerity, and Some Fun (edited) from 2022-05-12T14:06

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 t...

Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND) — An Introduction from 2022-04-03T23:29:26

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 To...

Our Mailbag: Setbacks, Symptoms, Stories, and Success from 2022-03-13T00:05:15

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 ...

A Psychiatrist’s Perspective: Conversation with Dr. Alexis Ritvo (Part 2 of 2) from 2022-02-01T17:53:54

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 als...

A Psychiatrist’s Perspective: Conversation with Dr. Alexis Ritvo (Part 1 of 2) from 2022-02-01T16:32:21

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 als...

Top 5 Benzo Questions (and a Few Answers) from 2022-01-11T17:50:17

Share this post with others: Do have questions about benzos? About your symptoms? About finding a doctor to help you survive this thing we call benzo withdrawal? Questions plague the benzo...

Holiday Podcast LIVE! — Part II (Recorded 12/9/2021) from 2021-12-11T04:51:10

Share this post with others: The holidays can be very difficult for those struggling with benzo withdrawal. So, we decided to dedicate our holiday podcast to you. Your questions, your comm...

Holiday Podcast LIVE! — Part I (Recorded 12/8/2021) from 2021-12-11T03:24:59

Share this post with others: The holidays can be very difficult for those struggling with benzo withdrawal. So, we decided to dedicate our holiday podcast to you. Your questions, your comm...

What’s New in the Benzo Community? from 2021-11-10T01:15:38

Share this post with others: Far too often, we think we are all alone during benzo withdrawal and that no one understands what we are going through. But we’re not alone. The benzo communit...

A Day in the Life…of Protracted Withdrawal from 2021-10-05T15:25:19

Share this post with others: What is it like living in protracted withdrawal, seven years out? What are the joys? What are the pains? What are the triggers? What thoughts ruminate in the m...

Surviving Setbacks in Benzo Withdrawal from 2021-09-15T15:01:01

Share this post with others: Are there setbacks in benzo withdrawal? What causes them? How long do they last? And how do you deal with them? Benzo withdrawal can be a crazy, confusing roll...

Benefits, Severity, Calm,&Intimacy (Recorded Live) from 2021-09-01T15:54:03

Share this post with others: Looking to make the best of benzo withdrawal? Want others to understand the severity some of us face? Trying to find calm within it all? Facing emotions and in...

Insights from Ireland: Conversation with Dr. Colin Bradley (Part II) from 2021-08-18T23:45:41

Share this post with others:Dr. Colin Bradley is a physician, professor, and a 2017 Fulbright Scholar. He has studied the opioid and benzodiazepine crises in both the U.S. and Ireland; and was appo...

Insights from Ireland: Conversation with Dr. Colin Bradley (Part I) from 2021-08-18T23:29:44

Share this post with others: Dr. Colin Bradley is a physician, professor, and a 2017 Fulbright Scholar. He has studied the opioid and benzodiazepine crises in both the U.S. and Ireland; an...

Our Mailbag: Muscles, Tapering, and Lawsuits from 2021-08-09T19:43:57

Share this post with others: Do you have questions about benzos? About withdrawal? About how fast you should taper? Or if your exercise is making things worse? Wonder if you can sue? Or do...

Benzo Trivia: What Do You Really Know? from 2021-07-23T21:09:37

Share this post with others: How much do you know about benzos? About withdrawal? About anxiety and insomnia? Want to test that knowledge? Well, this is the place. It’s time to lighten the...

When the Rains Fall: Enduring Benzo Withdrawal from 2021-06-28T19:35:24

Share this post with others: When the dark clouds of benzo withdrawal engulf you, how do you respond? Do you lock the door? Curse the world around you? Protect yourself and hide from life?...

Road Trip: Post-Withdrawal Effects on Our Lives from 2021-06-12T15:37:22

Share this post with others: Once we withdraw from benzodiazepines, then what? What are we left with? What are the triumphs and what are the pitfalls? How do we handle the new challenges l...

Our Mailbag: Tears, Fears, and Healing from 2021-05-27T23:27:15

Share this post with others: Should I withdraw from benzodiazepines? Are there always complications from long-term use? Does everyone fully heal? Do others overreact, or become overly emot...

On the Road Again: Progress in Protracted Withdrawal from 2021-05-08T17:19:34

Share this post with others: How long does withdrawal last? Will I ever be normal again? Will I ever recover fully? These are questions so many of us have asked about benzo withdrawal time...

COVID and Benzos: Immunity, Vaccines, Symptoms from 2021-04-29T01:14:07

Share this post with others: Is COVID more dangerous if you are on benzos? What if you are in withdrawal? What about the vaccine? Will it elevate my symptoms? In today’s episode, we explor...

Driving on Benzos: Is it safe? Is it legal? from 2021-04-24T04:08

Share this post with others: Is it safe to drive while taking benzodiazepines? Is it legal? Can benzos impair one’s ability to drive a motor vehicle? If so, which type of benzo has the gre...

Our Mailbag: Tapering, TMJ, and Trusting Yourself from 2021-04-16T21:19:52

Share this post with others: Benzo withdrawal creates far more questions than answers, and today we address a few of them. We look at the loss of self-confidence withdrawal, deciding how l...

What’s New in the Benzo Community: Stories, Events, and Advocacy from 2021-04-09T23:35:55

Share this post with others: What’s been going on in the benzo community lately? Any progress on awareness, education, legislation, support? Any upcoming events? Any benzo stories to share...

On the Road with Benzos IV: Surviving the Trip Back Home from 2021-03-01T21:58:20

Share this post with others: Anxiety. Benzos. Symptoms. Withdrawal. Overwhelm. Family drama. Wooded trails. Sleepless nights in cheap motels. Long walks and deep thoughts. What do all thes...

Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms: Questions, Confusion, Obsession from 2021-01-01T00:11:17

Share this post with others: Is this pain part of benzo withdrawal? What about this ache? Or memory loss? Or Confusion? Or Restlessness? It seems incomprehensible that all these symptoms a...

Benzo Brain: Cognitive Symptoms in Withdrawal from 2020-12-01T17:26:17

Share this post with others: Benzo Brain. Fuzzy Brain. Cog Fog. Memory loss and cognitive dysfunction are common in benzo withdrawal and can linger for months. Why does this happen? What d...

Live Chat with D|A Discussion of Anxiety, Benzos, and Other Stuff (edited) from 2020-11-14T18:03:45

Share this post with others: Do you have questions about benzos and withdrawal? About your symptoms and possible remedies? About healing, misdiagnoses, anxiety, emotions, COVID, isolation,...

Benzo Mornings: Anxiety, Symptoms, and Loneliness from 2020-11-01T15:33:46

Share this post with others: Benzo withdrawal is personal. It’s intimate. And most of all, it can be very isolating. Fear and loneliness are pervasive in withdrawal and we frequently crave...

Benzo Pharmacology, Dependence, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Robert Valuck (Part 2 of 2) from 2020-10-01T17:50:01

Share this post with others: Robert J. Valuck, Ph.D., is a Professor in Clinical Pharmacy, Epidemiology, and Family Medicine at the University of Colorado (CU) and the Director of the Cent...

Benzo Pharmacology, Dependence, and Advocacy: A Conversation with Dr. Robert Valuck (Part 1 of 2) from 2020-10-01T16:32:48

Share this post with others: Robert J. Valuck, Ph.D., is a Professor in Clinical Pharmacy, Epidemiology, and Family Medicine at the University of Colorado (CU) and the Director of the Cent...

Stories, Successes, and Easing Symptom Severity from 2020-09-02T03:20:10

Share this post with others: What is the best method for reducing symptoms in benzo withdrawal? Why do we cling to a need for control?  Is a slow taper still the way to go? These questions...

Anger and Irritability in Benzo Withdrawal from 2020-06-13T23:10:07

Share this post with others: Anger, frustration, and even rage can be common during benzo withdrawal. When events trigger us, we react. But what happens when we are unable to calm down? Le...

Questions, Comments, and a Few Answers About Benzo Dependence and Withdrawal (Take 2) from 2020-06-01T00:29:52

Share this post with others: Are my breathing problems caused by benzos? How about my chest pain? Do probiotics help with benzo belly? Can I take herbal supplements during withdrawal? Thes...

Benzos 101: A Return to the Basics of Withdrawal from 2020-05-14T21:38:13

Share this post with others: What are the basics of benzo withdrawal? If you are new to the benzo community, you might want to know where to start. If you are a veteran, you might want a r...

Surviving Isolation: Benzo Withdrawal in Chaotic Times from 2020-05-01T00:04:24

Viral outbreaks, social phobias, benzo withdrawal — all these events can be isolating, and any combination can lead to extreme levels of fear, separation, and loneliness. Why do we suffer so when w...

Rapid Fire Q&A on Benzos, Anxiety, and Withdrawal from 2020-04-14T21:31:18

Do you have benzo questions? Well, we’re here to help. Whether they’re questions about benzodiazepines, Z-drugs, withdrawal symptoms, the podcast, updosing, polydrugging, and more — our rapid-fire ...

7 Little-Known Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal from 2020-03-31T17:33:56

Benzo withdrawal can trigger a vast array of symptoms. Some of these are common and well-known, yet others like skin rashes, irritability, personality changes, and the loss of social skills can go ...

Anxiety, Benzos, and a Virus from 2020-03-18T00:05:20

Take a damaged nervous system from benzo dependence and withdrawal, mix in a worldwide viral outbreak, and you have the recipe for off-the-charts anxiety. Tune in as D chats off-script about benzos...

Benzo Belly: Our Gut in Withdrawal (Take 2) from 2020-03-10T23:50:12

Our gut can take a direct hit in benzo withdrawal. Pain, aches, cramps, digestive issues, inflammation, distention, and more. Why does this happen and what can we do about it? It’s time to revisit ...

Questions, Comments, and a Few Answers About Benzo Dependence and Withdrawal from 2020-03-03T21:55:52

How long will my recovery last? If I’ve taken these drugs periodically, can I be dependent? How do I convince my doctor? What is this condition of ours even called? These and several other common ...

Tips for Talking About Benzos with Doctors, Therapists, Family, and Friends from 2020-02-25T15:45:47

Do you find it hard to talk with your physician or psychiatrist about benzos? How about with your counselor or family and friends? This is a far too common problem in the benzo community, and we’re...

60 Years of Benzos: A Brief Walk Through History from 2020-02-18T23:44:56

On February 24th, 1960, the very first benzodiazepine was approved in the U.S. 60 years later, they are still some of the most popular drugs on the planet. Join us as we explore the history of some...

The Smile Episode: Stories and Other Stuff to Brighten Your Day from 2020-02-12T00:37:09

Benzo dependence and withdrawal can seem hopeless at times — but it’s not. There is hope. There is healing. There is a better life on the other side. And today we dedicated an entire episode to pos...

Hope, Wellness, and Renewal: A Conversation with Baylissa Frederick (Part 2 of 2) from 2020-01-29T00:14:06

For the past 14 years, Baylissa Frederick has supported thousands of people affected by prescribed drug dependency and withdrawal both as a psychotherapist and through her books and online support ...

Hope, Wellness, and Renewal: A Conversation with Baylissa Frederick (Part 1 of 2) from 2020-01-28T23:23:31

For the past 14 years, Baylissa Frederick has supported thousands of people affected by prescribed drug dependency and withdrawal both as a psychotherapist and through her books and online support ...

Online or Offline? Managing Triggers in Benzo Withdrawal from 2020-01-22T00:08:47

In benzo withdrawal, we are often trapped in an insatiable quest for information, verification, and connection — much of which is done online. But can too much information be a bad thing? Can this ...

Conversation with Angela Peacock on Benzos, Veterans, and the film “Medicating Normal” from 2020-01-14T15:37:54

Angela Peacock, MSW, is a US Army veteran, benzo survivor, member of BIC’s medical board, and a tireless advocate for those who struggle with PTSD and psychiatric drugs. Her story is highlighted in...

Conversation with Filmmaker Lynn Cunningham of“Medicating Normal” from 2020-01-07T22:16:13

“Medicating Normal,” a documentary feature film about the overprescribing of psychiatric drugs, premiers at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on January 16th and 17th. We had the distin...

The Holiday Episode: Glad Tidings, Good Feelings, and Gratitudes from 2019-12-25T01:05:08

It’s that time of year again. Time to review, reminisce, and remember how far we have come. Even if you are in the middle of benzo withdrawal, there are always things to be grateful for.In today’s ...

The Pelvic Problem: Benzo Symptoms of the Pelvis and Lower Abdomen from 2019-12-18T02:42:24

Our gut takes a big hit in benzo withdrawal, but digestive difficulties are only part of it. Pelvic pain, cramps, aching, urinary difficulties, sexual dysfunction, and many other complications of t...

On the Road with Benzos (Part 2 of 2…not 1) from 2019-12-11T04:30:18

We’re back on the road with a 4,400-mile round trip from Colorado to Florida. During this trip, your host shares his personal experiences traveling with protracted withdrawal symptoms along with so...

On the Road with Benzos (Part 1 of 1…or 2) from 2019-12-04T02:13:27

We’re back on the road with a 4,400-mile round trip from Colorado to Florida. During this trip, your host shares his personal experiences traveling with protracted withdrawal symptoms along with so...

Symptoms, Sensitivities, and Uplifting Stories from 2019-11-27T05:03:51

Questions lead us to answers. Comments provide us insight. And stories connect from all corners of the globe. Your input is the heart of the Benzo Free Podcast, and it’s about time we dedicated an ...

A Conversation with Dr. Christy Huff (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-11-12T20:05:22

Christy Huff, M.D., is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, on the board of Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC), and is herself, a benzo survivor. A tireless advocate in the benzo...

A Conversation with Dr. Christy Huff (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-11-12T20:00

Christy Huff, M.D., is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, on the board of Benzodiazepine Information Coalition (BIC), and is herself, a benzo survivor. A tireless advocate in the benzo...

Immune and Endocrine Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-11-05T20:00:51

Do we get sick more often during benzo withdrawal? Do we get more infections? Do we suffer more hormonal imbalances? Does benzo use and withdrawal affect our immune and endocrine systems, and if so...

How to Taper from Benzos (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-10-30T00:33:13

Have you taken an anti-anxiety drug long-term? Do you think you might be dependent? Do you want to know what to do next? We collected some of the most respected information on benzo tapering and pr...

How to Taper from Benzos (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-10-21T23:40:02

Have you taken an anti-anxiety drug long-term? Do you think you might be dependent? Do you want to know what to do next? We collected some of the most respected information on benzo tapering and pr...

Conversation with Filmmaker Holly Hardman (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-10-09T00:52:52

“As Prescribed” is a highly anticipated, upcoming film about the benzo crises which documents personal accounts, legislative efforts, and a mountain of evidence. Listen as filmmaker Holly Hardman s...

Conversation with Filmmaker Holly Hardman (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-10-09T00:05:50

“As Prescribed” is a highly anticipated, upcoming film about the benzo crises which documents personal accounts, legislative efforts, and a mountain of evidence. Listen as filmmaker Holly Hardman s...

Coping Skills from A to Z (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-10-01T23:00:24

Benzo withdrawal can seem like an insurmountable hurdle. But the expected struggles can be eased significantly with a little education and support. Grab a plate and visit our buffet of coping skill...

Coping Skills from A to Z (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-09-25T01:39:24

Benzo withdrawal can seem like an insurmountable hurdle. But the expected struggles can be eased significantly with a little education and support. Grab a plate and visit our buffet of coping skill...

Interminable Isolation: Social Symptoms in Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-09-17T21:16:17

Agoraphobia, androphobia, social phobia, glossophobia, philophobia...and on and on. Social anxiety disorders are numerous, and in benzo withdrawal, these burdens can escalate and become isolating. ...

Kansas City Road Trip: Benzo Mornings, Isolation, Gratitude, and More from 2019-09-10T20:52:44

We’re taking our podcast on the road. In a short road trip to Kansas City, your host shares his personal experiences traveling with protracted withdrawal symptoms and a few tips about managing symp...

Quick Questions About Anxiety, Insomnia, Benzos, and Withdrawal from 2019-09-03T23:03:54

Have a quick question about benzo withdrawal? About the symptoms? About the duration of recovery? About anxiety, insomnia, or anything else which is keeping you awake at night? Listen in on our con...

Sights, Sounds, and Sensitivities: Nerve Sensations of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-08-27T21:33:32

Hypersensitivity. In benzo withdrawal, we feel everything…more. Learn about the parade of nerve sensation symptoms such as itching, tingling, burning, paresthesia, numbness, and extreme sensitiviti...

The Restless Pursuit of Rest: Insomnia in Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-08-20T15:44:43

Few things in life are more beneficial than a good night’s sleep. But for millions of people, especially those in benzo withdrawal, this is easier said than done. Learn some tips and tricks which m...

Top 20 Things to Remember in Benzo Withdrawal (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-08-13T19:09:20

The information available for benzo withdrawal can be frightening, confusing, and overwhelming. To help simplify this, Benzo Free presents a two-part series on the 20 important things to remember d...

Top 20 Things to Remember in Benzo Withdrawal (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-08-07T00:45:02

The information available for benzo withdrawal can be frightening, confusing, and overwhelming. To help simplify this, Benzo Free presents a two-part series on the 20 important things to remember d...

Tight, Tense, and Twitching: Muscular Symptoms in Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-07-30T22:17:46

Without our muscles, we’re nothing. We can’t sit, stand, walk, eat, see, hear, or even breathe. Unfortunately, these same muscles can take a beating during benzo withdrawal. Learn what to expect an...

The Loss of Reality: Perception Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-07-23T21:55:10

Our central nervous system not only provides sensations of pleasure and pain, but it also interprets our perception of reality. In benzo withdrawal, that sense of reality can be altered creating an...

Pioneering Benzo Awareness: An Interview with Geraldine Burns (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-07-09T16:17:49

Geraldine Burns has been a pioneer in the benzo community for over 20 years. She is the founder of the first support group of its kind on the Internet, is the host of a benzo podcast, and was a key...

Pioneering Benzo Awareness: An Interview with Geraldine Burns (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-07-09T14:55:45

Geraldine Burns has been a pioneer in the benzo community for over 20 years. She is the founder of the first support group of its kind on the Internet, is the host of a benzo podcast, and was a key...

A Look Back: The First 25 Episodes from 2019-07-03T05:31:55

The Benzo Free Podcast has reached 25 episodes. Join us in a look back at the science, statistics, interviews, questions, comments, featured topics, news, spotlight organizations, and meditations w...

Cardiopulmonary Consternation: Heart and Lung Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-06-26T00:23:39

The heart and lungs embody the essence of human life. Benzo withdrawal can affect their normal functioning and create a cascade of symptoms such as heart palpitations, flushing, sweating, hot flash...

Perpetual Motion Madness: Excitability Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-06-19T02:50:46

Akathisia is one of the most common symptoms of benzo withdrawal. It is often defined by the feeling of inner restlessness and the urgency to keep moving. It can be exhausting, overwhelming, and ev...

Dialogue with the Doctor: A Conversation with Dr. Steven Wright (Part 2 of 2) from 2019-06-05T02:09:19

Steven Wright, M.D. is the medical consultant to the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices, is board certified with 31 years in addiction medicine, and has 15 years in medical pain management....

Dialogue with the Doctor: A Conversation with Dr. Steven Wright (Part 1 of 2) from 2019-06-04T18:45:13

Steven Wright, M.D. is the medical consultant to the Alliance for Benzodiazepine Best Practices, is board certified with 31 years in addiction medicine, and has 15 years in medical pain management....

Unsteady, Unintelligible, and Unyielding: Head and Neck Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-05-29T03:27:37

Dizziness. Migraines. Slurred Speech. Loss of Balance. These are just a few of the benzo withdrawal symptoms which affect the head and neck region of the human body. Learn more and pick up some tip...

Relationships, Intimacy, and Sex in Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-05-22T03:35:54

Intimacy is essential to a healthy, happy life. And yet, during benzo withdrawal it is often one of the earliest casualties. How can a loving relationship — let alone a healthy sex life — survive t...

The Science of Benzos: GABA and Glutamate from 2019-05-15T03:10:23

How do benzodiazepines work? What do they do in the body? Why do they initially calm us, but then stop working? And why are they so incredibly hard to stop? When we take a look at the neurotransmit...

Benzo Brain: Cognitive Dysfunction and Memory Loss in Withdrawal from 2019-05-07T22:45:36

Do you know much about the cognitive effects of benzodiazepines and Z-drugs? Perhaps you should. Memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, and intrusive memories are all possible symptoms of benzo use an...

The Assault on Our Senses: Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms of the Eyes, Ears, Nose, and Mouth from 2019-04-30T21:01:51

Have you heard the term'sensory hypersensitivity,'but don't really know what it means? Perhaps you should ask someone in benzo withdrawal. Sensitivity to sights, sounds, smells, and tastes can be c...

The Dangers of Benzodiazepine Use in the Elderly from 2019-04-24T02:37:56

More senior citizens take benzos than any other age group. And yet, they are also the group most at-risk for complications. What are the effects of this dangerous combination? And what can be done ...

Finding Faith, Hope, and Acceptance in Benzo Withdrawal: A Conversation with Jennifer Leigh, PsyD from 2019-04-16T23:15:27

Can a unique blend of neuroscience, compassion, and spirituality be the secret to success in benzo withdrawal? Jennifer Leigh seems to think so. And so do many of the people she has coached. Our in...

Benzo Bad Guys: Anger, Aggression, Depression, and Obsession from 2019-04-10T02:46:15

Have you ever heard of Benzo Rage? What about other withdrawal symptoms like depression, aggression, or violent tendencies? All these behaviors can be escalated by benzos and learning how to deal w...

Conversation with a Caregiver from 2019-04-03T04:20:57

The underappreciated angels of the benzo community are the caregivers. What's it like to take care of someone going through benzo withdrawal? What are the key hurdles? What are the burdens? And mos...

Benzo Belly: Our Gut in Withdrawal from 2019-03-27T05:12:56

Have you ever heard of"benzo belly?"How about abdominal distension? The gut-brain connection? Since our digestive and central nervous systems are so closely linked, our gut can take a big hit durin...

Insights on Withdrawal: A Conversation with Elizabeth McCarthy from 2019-03-20T04:55:12

Elizabeth McCarthy, MA, LPC hits the benzo community trifecta. She is a benzo survivor, an activist in the benzo community, and a therapist with a decade of experience working with dependence and w...

Anxiety: The Beast of Benzo Withdrawal from 2019-03-13T23:10:18

When it comes to benzo withdrawal, all roads lead to anxiety. Anxiety is not only the most persistent and pervasive symptom of withdrawal, but it’s also the catalyst which makes all the others wors...

An Introduction to Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms from 2019-03-06T18:04:08

What are the common symptoms of benzo withdrawal? How many are there? What do they all have in common? And, will any of them be permanent? In today's episode, we take a brief tour through the persi...

The Ashton Manual–Who Wrote It and Why You Should Read It from 2019-03-01T00:39:43

Have you read the Ashton Manual? Do you know what it is? Do you know who Prof. Ashton is? Well, if you or anyone you know is dependent on benzos, you should.In today's feature, we focus on Professo...

Dependence, Disbelief, and the Doctor Dilemma from 2019-02-26T10:23:44

Do you feel all alone in your dependence on benzos? Do you feel like no one believes you? Not even your doctor? Well, you’re not alone — thousands of others feel exactly as you do.In episode 6 of t...

Managing the Fear of Benzo Withdrawal (Part 3 of 3) from 2019-02-20T08:40:26

Many see benzo withdrawal as an epic, exhausting, never-ending battle — but what if it doesn’t have to be? In the final part of this three-part series, you’ll learn how to step back, get out of you...

Managing the Fear of Benzo Withdrawal (Part 2 of 3) from 2019-02-20T08:30:42

Are you in benzo withdrawal? Do you feel stuck? Hopeless? Do you wish you could be more positive? More active? In part two of this three-part series, you’ll learn tips for improving your physical a...

Managing the Fear of Benzo Withdrawal (Part 1 of 3) from 2019-02-20T08:20:47

Experts agree that reducing fear and anxiety is critical to success during benzo withdrawal. But how do you do that? In part one of this three-part series, I introduce fivekey areas of focus for c...

My Benzo Story (A Personal Account of Withdrawal) from 2019-02-20T08:10:32

What’s it really like to withdraw from anti-anxiety drugs or sleeping pills? For some of us, the experience is beyond words — but I will try anyway.Today, I share my personal story of benzo withdra...

What Everyone Should Know About Benzos from 2019-02-20T08:00:59

What are benzos and why should you care? If you’ve been taking anti-anxiety medication or sleeping pills, chances are it’s a benzo. Learn about the downside to benzos, where to turn for help, and w...