What are Benzodiazepine (Benzos)

While each drug has its specific mechanism of action, most substances carrying a potential for abuse and addiction can significantly change brain functions in ways that disturb cognition and perception. Benzodiazepines continue to be among these drugs that disrupt the user’s cognitive abilities, changing their mental state, distorting their normal thought processes, slowing their response time, and even negatively affecting their memory. Because of this potential, this category of medication has been commonly associated with benzo psychosis, a much-feared side effect.

Benzo-induced psychosis occurs when an individual consumes a larger dose of benzodiazepine than what has been prescribed to them. This danger can also prevail if someone mixes their regular dose of this medication with alcohol or combines it with other drugs to increase its effects. As a result, intoxication occurs, which tends to alter their perception of reality. This particular danger of benzodiazepine is more prevalent in people who have developed an addiction to this drug and are going through a withdrawal phase.

Benzodiazepines typically enhance the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA. GABA is termed an inhibitory neurotransmitter as it works by blocking the messages between nerve cells in an attempt to reduce the activity within the central nervous system. Consequently, an individual who uses benzodiazepine experiences a sense of calm and relaxation. However, in people who use it in large amounts or mix it with other drugs or alcohol, benzos affect the brain so strongly that their judgment gets impaired, their thinking slows down, and they are unable to understand what’s happening to them. As soon as intoxication kicks in, the initial delirium quickly progresses into a full-fledged psychosis with symptoms like hallucinations, visual distortions, paranoia, and confused thoughts.

The symptoms of a benzo psychosis often differ from those of a typical psychotic disorder, such as schizophrenia. These symptoms primarily include paranoid delusions and visual and auditory hallucinations. Another feature that differentiates benzo psychosis from other psychotic disorders is the fact that the symptoms of the former develop much more quickly than the latter. Some other common symptoms of benzo psychosis include:

• Hearing, tasting, or seeing things that other people cannot
• Reduced hygiene
• Having beliefs that don’t align with your culture or don’t make sense to others
• Having unusual thoughts or beliefs, no matter what others say or what evidence they present
• Isolation from family and friends
• Hearing voices that aren’t real
• Feeling as if you have superpowers or are on a special mission
• Difficulty thinking clearly or paying attention
• Seeing people or things that aren’t real or seeing distorted shapes)
• Feeling as if outside forces are controlling your feelings and behavior
• Giving significant meaning to small events or comments

The psychosis triggered by benzodiazepines can be extremely disturbing and terrifying. Most people develop it as they withdraw from this drug and often experience other physical symptoms that make the entire experience more uncomfortable and challenging to manage. If you or someone around you has been experiencing the typical symptoms of a benzodiazepine-induced psychosis, it is vital to seek help immediately. If not controlled, certain symptoms associated with this side effect can even prove harmful and potentially life-threatening not only for the patient but for others around them as well. If you have been addicted to benzodiazepines and are considering quitting them, consider seeking help from a professional treatment center instead of trying it on your own to avoid these dangers and detox and recover in a safe and supportive environment.