Ativan (a benzodiazepine medication) is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant with a high potential for misuse. Obtaining or using Ativan without a doctor’s prescription is considered drug abuse. People often take medicine belonging to someone else (with or without their knowledge), buy pills via the internet, or purchase it from street dealers.
Whether you possess a prescription or not, Ativan abuse is recognized by the following signs:
BEHAVIORAL:
- Consuming without a doctor’s prescription
- Using higher doses or frequencies than prescribed
- Using recreationally to get high
- Administration through non-prescribed methods (crushing, snorting, or dissolving in liquid for intravenous use)
- Mixing with other drugs that are depressants (such as alcohol or opioids)
PHYSICAL:
- Drowsiness
- Relaxation
- Poor coordination/motor skills
- Slowed breathing rates
- Withdrawal symptoms when doses are skipped or decreased
PSYCHOLOGICAL:
- Aggressiveness
- Euphoria
- Lack of motivation
- Memory loss and forgetfulness
- Paranoia
People take Ativan for many different reasons. You may be trying to cope with past trauma by numbing your emotional response; you may even have problems dealing with stress or anxiety in everyday life. Many people abuse Ativan because it creates sensations of relaxation and drowsiness; others find it similar to indulging in alcohol. People with mental health conditions (anxiety, panic disorder, PTSD, etc.) that aren’t properly managed often abuse drugs in order to handle the effects of the undiagnosed illness. Overall the reasons for Ativan abuse are unique and highly individual.
Scientific studies and experiments conclude that the most adverse reactions triggered by Ativan abuse are:
- Severe depression
- Kidney failure
- Respiratory depression
The negative consequences of Ativan abuse do not solely exist within the scope of physical and mental health problems; drug abuse negatively impacts almost every aspect of your life. Some other side effects that may appear as a result of abusing Ativan include:
- Broken relationships
- Legal or financial issues due to Ativan abuse
- Isolation from friends and family
- Job loss
- Neglecting work/ family responsibilities
At Asana Recovery, we understand the hardship that accompanies recovering from substance abuse addiction. Our daily work consists of striving to help those struggling most from this disease. Though some may believe they are able to conquer it alone, rehabilitation programs are a must when fighting against dependency. The road ahead isn’t the easiest one, but no pain no gain! You can beat it if done with the support of the proper team. Counseling and therapy sessions can also help you make headway into discovering each factor that led you to addiction and teach you to handle life in a more efficient manner.
Supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in an environment that is relaxing, supportive, and inspiring. We are deeply committed to seeing you through to long term recovery, all while guiding you on the path to a healthy and happy future. There’s no time better than now, as we are always available to chat with you! Call us immediately at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our life-changing drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
