Once your brain is more recovered from the chemical damage it incurred from the benzo (or “z” drug) that you took, you are ready to become involved in your normal life again. However, for many of us, the trauma and devastation brought on by benzo withdrawal makes us feel a bit overwhelmed and under prepared to dive back into life.
The first step is to make certain you have the correct attitude. Viewing the world and your place in the world in a positive light will help you.
I can’t tell you how much I suffered when I allowed myself to wallow in negative thoughts once I was on the road to healing. (In withdrawal, having control of your thoughts is very hard for most of us. It is normal to think negative thoughts while our brains are still damaged.) I always did better when I had an “I can do!” attitude.
One of the most powerful things we do every day is say, “I am….” Whatever you finish that statement with becomes your reality. I ask you to please be mindful to finish that statement with something positive.
Shakespeare said “Nothing is good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” Create your reality as a positive one. See everything in a positive light. I know it seems like a simple, or even corny concept, but being positive is an amazingly strong and powerful force that makes life good.
When you view yourself and the world around you in a positive light, you’ll have more confidence to take risks, and to start the process of rebuilding your life. Accept any limitations that you may still have, view them as positive stepping stones to your future, and start your journey. Any missteps that you make are okay. Keep going!
You’ve survived a very challenging illness. You have already proven you are strong, brave, patient, and have stamina and endurance. You have nothing you need to prove now. You have a life to step back into and enjoy as deeply and as fully as you can! Be positive with every step. Every decision.
If you feel inadequate at any time, simply say to yourself, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Know that God made you and I can assure you, He doesn’t make junk! You are amazing! You can do what you set your mind out to do!
Believe. Be positive.
I am strong. I am kind. I am honest. I am lovable. I am capable. I am worthy of love. I am able to figure things out.
I’m trying to believe these things as I heal post-benzos. It’s not always easy, especially when the symptoms flare. That’s when I feel like I’ll never be able to have a normal life again. Frustrating. At least I get out of my house every day these days, and I can paint. And I can see friends. It’s holding down a steady job that is going to be a real challenge. I can’t do that quite yet, and it makes me feel bad about myself.
This is so great. I am having so many of these same thoughts and worries and felt I was maybe having pts just from the trauma of the experience.
Thank you, dear lady, you have such a gift for understanding and for making it all not only clear but supportive.
Thank you for this reminder to say positive and I strive to be grateful in every situation. I’m coming off 2 Meds simultaneously because of negative side effects on my body. I long to be drug-free and even though it will probably take a few more years I am so looking forward to it. Thank you for your post and your encouragement.
Thank u. W/my mind the way it i, not easy. So wish this HEALED now ! : (
Prayers go with you as you slowly regain your freedom. Let us know if you need encouragement. We are here for you.
karen, thank you for your kind words. I know God is with you as you recover. I trust that, I really do. I agree that the negative thoughts are just “benzo lies.” I had them too, and they are now gone. I have a much better understanding of life and I certainly have a much deeper appreciation for all things. I like your sentence, “Whatever years He gives me, I will love and appreciate every one as the gift they are!” Amen! Now matter what happens in those years, know that God will use it ALL to your good, if you love him and follow him. Nothing is “bad.” It’s all grist for the mill… its all to polish you and grow you.
Much love, Jenn
You will have a normal life again. It may be a new normal, (and a BETTER!) normal, but you won’t always be benzo sick. The steady job will come when the time is right for you. Trust that. Don’t push it. You are doing an amazing job of healing. That’s your very first “job” and priority. Keep those I AM statements positive! Way to go.
I needed to read this. I am in early stages of benzo taper after having been prescribed it for over 30 years. It is difficult enough to make the step towards getting off the drug and then all I see are horror stories all over the internet when I look for support or the best weaning methods. God will never leave nor forsake us. I will do my best to cling to him, even when benzo lies try to convince me otherwise! Thank you again for sharing your success with a positive outlook.