What is the impact of benzodiazepine withdrawal on mood
Research has found that benzodiazepine withdrawal can commonly lead to irritability and depressed mood. Benzodiazepine withdrawal also commonly causes sleep disturbance which can also impact people's capacity to cope with mood changes.
Managing suicidal thoughts during reduction
Suicidal thoughts can occur during withdrawal and may be difficult to cope with amongst other withdrawal symptoms. It is important to speak to someone about your thoughts.
Making a safety plan
Making a safety plan can be a helpful way to be prepared for any suicidal thoughts that might come up in the future.
Make a safety plan with Lifeline's Beyond Now Safety Plan.
Talk to a professional
If you are in counselling or therapy, it's very important to let your therapist know about your thoughts so they can help you to stay safe.
If you haven't connected with a counsellor or therapist it's probably a good time to connect with someone. Head to Health can help you navigate finding the right service and provide some support over the phone initially.
Managing mood during benzodiazepine withdrawal
It's important to be aware of how your mood might be impacted by benzodiazepine withdrawal and take some steps to prevent your mood from declining. These steps might include:
- Taking small achievable steps to care for yourself daily. It's important to acknowledge it can be tough just to get out of bed and eat regular meals. If you've managed to do this you've set yourself on the path to your mood improving.
- Gradually increasing your movement. Exercise helps to improve mood. Small and achievable goals for daily movement such as home exercise or short walks can help to lift your mood.
- Talking about how you feel with someone you trust.
- Challenging your self-critic. If you're becoming critical of yourself, try and catch the mean things you might be saying to yourself. You can try asking yourself – Would I say this to a friend who is having a hard time? Try supporting yourself as you would a good friend.
- Reduce alcohol intake. Drinking alcohol can exacerbate low mood and make it more difficult to manage suicidal thoughts. It's important to try and refrain from drinking when you're feeling low.
- Spending time with loved ones, pets or nature.
- Remember, feelings and thoughts are temporary and can pass with time.
If you need support
These services may be contacted at any time:
- Lifeline - 13 11 14
- Suicideline - 1300 651 251
- 13YARN - 13 92 76
- Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636
