Do I Have Sedative, Hypnotic Or Anxiolytic Use Disorder?

Do you often take sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended?

Do you experience a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use?

Do you spend a great deal of time in activities necessary to obtain the sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic; use the sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic; or recover from its effects?

Do you crave or experience a strong desire or urge to use the sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic?

Do you recurrently use sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic substances resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school or home (e.g., repeated absences from work or poor work performance related to sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use; suspensions or expulsions from school; neglect of children or household)?

Do you continue sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics (e.g., arguments with a spouse about consequences of intoxication; physical fights)?

Are you giving up or reducing important social, occupational or recreational activities because of sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use?

Do you recurrently use sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic substances in situations in which it is physically hazardous (e.g., driving an automobile or operating a machine when impaired by sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use)?

Do you continue sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic?

Do you experience a need for markedly increased amounts of the sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic to achieve intoxication or desired effect or a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of the sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic?

After cessation/reduction of sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use that has been prolonged, did you experience two or more symptoms (such as nausea, anxiety or hand tremor) within several hours after cessation/reduction or do you take sedatives, hypnotics or anxiolytics (or a closely related substance, such as alcohol) to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use disorder, you are displaying some signs related to it. Sedatives, hypnotics and anxiolytics can be prescribed by a doctor to treat various medical conditions, such as sleeping problems and anxiety. Prolonged use of these substances can make some people addicted. The medications are also associated with memory problems and depression. It may be essential to talk with your doctor if you are taking a sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic and experiencing disturbing symptoms.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use disorder. It is very important to seek medical help for your symptoms. In order to receive a diagnosis of the disorder, you need to experience distress and several symptoms within the last 12-month period. Your doctor will decide if you need treatment, which typically involves abstinence together with behavioral therapy. Behavioral therapy will teach you how to manage stress, how to relax and you will also learn new coping techniques. Your doctor may prescribe medication to manage withdrawal symptoms.