Sedative drugs are substances that depress the central nervous system, helping calm anxiety, induce sleep and reduce agitation. Doctors may prescribe sedative medicines to treat conditions such as insomnia, seizures and anxiety disorders. These drugs are effective when used correctly. However, misusing sedatives can increase tolerance, causing dependence or addiction.
Overcoming sedative abuse can be difficult, but it’s possible with the right support and treatment. Learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of sedative abuse so you or a loved one can seek appropriate help and build healthier habits.
Recognizing Signs of Sedative Abuse
Sedatives are addictive when abused long-term. Over time, repeated misuse causes the body to develop a tolerance, requiring higher or more frequent doses to achieve similar effects. There are several types of sedatives, including benzodiazepines, barbiturates and sleeping medications.
Each type of sedative may affect the brain and body differently, but they cause a common range of behavioral, physical and psychological symptoms. These can include:
- Mood swings, depression or anxiety
- Paranoia or increased irritability
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school or home
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Engaging in risky activities while under the influence
- Loss of interest in enjoyable activities
- Noticeable changes in weight and personal hygiene
- Spending an increasing amount of time procuring, taking or recovering from sedatives
- Having physical cravings to use sedatives
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when abruptly ending usage
The National Institute on Drug Abuse reported about 4.9 million people aged 12 and over misused sedatives in 2021. Additionally, about 2.2 million people had a sedative use disorder. Recognizing signs of sedative abuse early can prevent an addiction from spiraling out of control, improving treatment outcomes.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms and the Detox Process
Sedative withdrawal can be challenging, and in some cases, dangerous. The body adapts to the presence of the substance and eventually becomes dependent on it for normal functioning. When sedative use stops abruptly, withdrawal symptoms can occur.
Symptoms can vary in intensity depending on factors including the type of sedative and duration of use but commonly include:
- Restlessness and insomnia
- Tremors and sweating
- Hallucinations, disorientation or delirium
- Nausea and vomiting
- Intense cravings
- Elevated heart rate, blood pressure and body temperature
- Seizures
- Anxiety and depression
- Headaches
These symptoms can interfere with recovery when left untreated. However, detoxing under medical supervision can provide access to supportive care, minimizing withdrawal risks. During detox, medical professionals gradually taper dosages to rid your body of sedatives over time. This can reduce the risk of severe symptoms.
They also monitor your vital signs, mental status and any emerging symptoms, providing supportive treatments as needed. These can include IV fluids for hydration, nutritional support, sleep aids or nonaddictive medications to manage symptoms. Detox usually lasts about 3 to 10 days. Once you complete the process, you can continue treatment through therapy, medication or rehabilitation programs.
Treatment Options for Sedative Drug Abuse
Ongoing treatment for sedative abuse is crucial to support recovery and reduce the risk of relapse. It also addresses psychological or behavioral factors contributing to drug use. A combination of treatment approaches often produces the best outcome. There are several options to consider, depending on the severity of addiction.
Medication-Assisted Treatment
There are no FDA-approved medications specifically for sedative drug abuse. However, certain medications can help alleviate lingering symptoms. For example, a doctor may prescribe antidepressants or antianxiety medications for co-occurring mood disorders. Nonaddictive sleep aids may be used to combat insomnia. If you experience seizures during withdrawal, you may receive an anticonvulsant medication.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies can help you understand and change the thoughts, emotions and behaviors contributing to substance abuse. They can also address any underlying mental health disorders. Common approaches include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and developing healthier coping strategies. It can help identify triggers and teach positive ways of managing stress.
- Motivational interviewing. This patient-centered counseling approach encourages you to explore and resolve conflicting feelings around substance abuse. The goal is to understand that change is an ongoing process, inspiring motivation to alter harmful thoughts and behaviors.
- Group therapy or support groups. Group-focused treatment helps you connect with peers experiencing similar struggles. This can reduce isolation, illuminate new coping strategies and hold you accountable through recovery.
Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab
Depending on your personal circumstances and the severity of your addiction, you can attend an inpatient or outpatient rehab program. Inpatient treatment provides residential care in a safe, structured environment for individuals with severe dependence. Outpatient treatment involves attending regular therapy sessions while maintaining outside responsibilities, such as school or work.
Preventing Relapse and Building Healthy Habits
Building healthy habits is key in preventing relapse and maintaining long-term recovery. One approach is developing strong coping skills to manage triggers and stress without turning to substances. Other healthy habits to consider include:
- Establishing a daily routine. Following a consistent schedule involving regular sleep, exercise and balanced meals promotes physical and mental stability, reducing impulsive behaviors.
- Building a strong support system. Connecting with supportive friends, family members or other individuals in recovery provides encouragement, accountability and a sense of belonging. This can make staying sober more manageable.
- Setting achievable goals. Make a list of personal goals to work toward. These can be educational, professional or recreational. Accomplishing meaningful goals can help foster purpose, motivation and self-confidence, reducing harmful thoughts and behaviors.
- Avoiding high-risk environments. Steer clear of people, places and situations associated with past substance use. This tactic reduces exposure to triggers that can spark cravings, increasing your chance of maintaining recovery.
- Creating a relapse prevention plan. If challenges arise during recovery, having a clear relapse prevention plan can help you respond quickly. Outline details including personal triggers, coping strategies and emergency contacts to deter sedative use during stressful situations.
- Practicing regular self-care. Participate in activities that promote relaxation, reduce stress and enhance well-being. These can include practicing meditation, spending time in nature or engaging in hobbies such as drawing, writing or listening to music.
Seek Professional Help for Sedative Addiction
Overcoming sedative abuse involves addressing factors that contribute to addiction and developing healthier coping skills. This can be difficult to do alone, but access to compassionate support can help.
At FHE Health, we offer a full spectrum of supportive care for sedative addiction. Whether you’re seeking detox, therapy or rehab, our dedicated professionals can find a solution aligning with your needs. Contact FHE Health today to get started.
