Internet support forums for benzodiazepine withdrawal: the good, the bad, and the ugly

Since the advent of the internet and rise of social media, patients can connect and compare their experiences with prescribed drug withdrawal. A problem that was once considered rare is a worldwide epidemic that is finally getting noticed.  A recent New York Times article discussed the problems many have discontinuing antidepressants, and more than 8,800 readers responded about their difficulty stopping these drugs. Another recent article discussed the role of online communities in supporting patients withdrawing from prescribed drugs. This led me to reflect on my observations as both a doctor and patient navigating online benzodiazepine withdrawal support forums. The good I discovered my prescription Xanax was making me ill via a Google search. After finding Benzobuddies, an online forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal, everything I was experiencing became clear. In the early days of my taper, this website was a lifeline. I found people with similar experiences, my suffering was validated, and I learned how to taper. My friend Ernie had just completed a four-year Valium taper when we met on Benzobuddies. He immediately adopted me, taught me tapering and coping skills, and shared everything he had learned through his own journey.  He has supported me throughout my entire ordeal, for which I am eternally grateful. While my doctor has been supportive, he did not have the knowledge I learned from fellow forum members. Once I had a taper plan, I utilized Benzobuddies for friendsh...
Source: Kevin, M.D. - Medical Weblog - Category: General Medicine Authors: Tags: Physician Medications Psychiatry Source Type: blogs