Overcome your challenges with depressants

Depressants is a name for a varied group of drugs that slow down, or depress, the body’s central nervous system. Drugs in this category include benzodiazepines (Xanax, Ativan, and others), which are commonly prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. Barbiturates, and some anti-seizure medications are also considered depressants. They carry a high potential for misuse and dependence due to chemically additive properties.

Depressants can slow a person’s breathing down to the point of stopping when taken in high doses. This risk is higher when mixing depressants with other substances such as alcohol, which is also a central nervous system depressant.

Signs of overdose can vary and may include slowed breathing, bluish skin, loss of consciousness, slurred speech, confusion, and low blood pressure.

A quick response to overdose can be lifesaving. If you are present in the event an overdose, call 911, and stay with the person to try to keep them awake until help arrives.

Depressant use disorder is a chronic medical condition characterized by an inability to control or stop using opioids despite negative consequences, such as problems with health and in areas of typical life.

Signs of a disorder may include cravings, loss of control, increased tolerance to depressants, physical dependence/withdrawal symptoms, and continued use despite harmful consequences. The illness can vary from mild to severe.

Symptoms of withdrawal can vary by person and by substance, but common symptoms of withdrawal from depressants are: anxiety or increased anxiety, insomnia or difficulty sleeping, irritability, tremors or shaky hands, sweating, difficulty concentrating, headaches, muscle pain and stiffness, nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, seizures (in severe cases).

Healthcare professionals typically use criteria outlined in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) for diagnosing. Criteria includes signs and symptoms of disordered sedatives, hypnotics, and anxiolytics (depressants) use, including physical, psychological, and social behaviors.

The development of depressant use disorder is influenced by a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Depressants are highly chemically addictive. It is not a condition of character or about willpower.

Yes, recovery is possible. Treatment often involves a combination of evidence-based therapies, medications, and support groups, including peer-support.

Treatment options include counseling, (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or “CBT”), other behavioral therapies, Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), and support groups. There are also apps, like the Anonymous Health app, that allow you to learn and practice tools and techniques to support your recovery. These kinds of applications, when combined with one-to-one therapy (“computer assisted therapy”), can yield significantly improved success rates relative to therapy alone.

Medication assisted treatment for these types of depressants may involve working to gradually taper off the substances or substituting certain depressants for longer-acting ones, allowing the body gets used to a lesser dose over time.

The duration of treatment varies based on a person’s own needs and treatment plan. Some may require short-term interventions, while others may benefit from longer-term support.

Harm reduction is the principle of reducing the harmful physical effects of addictive behaviors. Regarding depressants, harm reduction principles involve not mixing depressants with other substances, monitoring and reducing use, and preventing overdose. These principles can keep people alive and healthier to work on longer-term recovery.

Medical professionals consider depressant use disorder to be a chronic condition, but recovery is possible. Many people can discontinue use over time with appropriate treatment and support. Relapse is often a normal part of the recovery journey and doesn’t indicate a lack of progress.

Involving family in therapy or peer-support groups can be beneficial, both to educate family and provide support.

Encourage them to seek professional help. Approach the conversation with empathy and understanding, expressing concern for their well-being.

Treatment is individualized based on the specific person’s needs, but you may expect a combination of the following during the treatment process: assessment and evaluation, detoxification, medical monitoring, medication, counseling, education and skills building, relapse prevention and preparedness planning, continued support, and aftercare planning.

It's important to ask about payment options and verify insurance coverage before starting treatment. Many treatment programs have a navigator who can provide information on available options and help advise on the payment process. Some available options for payment may include: individual health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare, out-of-pocket payment, sliding scale fees, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), and payment plans.

Sessions with your therapist and other members of your treatment team will typically happen more frequently in the beginning of your treatment, usually a few times a week. Then, as recovery progresses, you can expect to meet less, depending on the level of support you need. This will be an ongoing discussion between you and your team.