Diazepam Tablet – How Safe Is Long-Term Use for Anxiety? - #15582

Hey, I totally get your concerns about diazepam. You're not alone – a lot of people wonder the same things. So, about how quickly dependency can happen... it can vary from person to person. Some folks might start noticing dependency issues after just a few weeks of regular use. It's mainly because benzodiazepines like diazepam can indeed be quite habit-forming. Your body's system might get used to it, expecting more for the same effect. Always keep an open line with your doctor about any changes or concerns, ya know? As for side effects, lightheadedness and sleepiness are pretty common, yeah. More serious issues like memory loss or liver damage can happen, but they are not as common, especially with short-term use. Mood swings? That's a possibility, but again, the key is to monitor any changes and adjustment with professional guidance. And yes, stopping suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, like increased anxiety or sleeplessness. So it’s super important to reduce it gradually if that decision is made, always under a doctor’s supervision. Now, exploring natural alternatives? That's a great idea! Brahmi and Ashwagandha are well-known in Ayurveda for their calming effects – might be worth exploring. Brahmi can help reduce mental fatigue and improve concentration, while Ashwagandha is particularly good for stress relief and balancing the nervous system. Try adding these herbs to your daily routine, maybe in capsule or tea form. Just ensure they are suited to your individual dosha balance. Breathing techniques, like 'Pranayama', are fantastic too. The 'Nadi Shodhana' or alternate nostril breathing might work wonders. Even just dedicating 10-15 minutes a day can help soothe anxieties and balance energies. And of course, meditation is superb for calming the mind! Start with guided meditations if new to the whole thing. And about diet, keeping agni strong is key. Favor light, warm meals like moong dal and rice. Avoid heavy, oily, or overly spicy foods which can aggravate pitta or kapha, disrupting your mental balance. Try including more sattvic foods – fresh fruits, nuts, and veggies (think simple, pure foods). It helps in keeping the mind calm and clear. Remember, it’s about finding what works for you so you'll need a bit of experimenting. It’s possible to manage anxiety naturally, just gotta find the right mix and buddy up with health professionals when considering weaning off medications. Feel free to come back and share how things are going or ask more questions!