Am I Addicted To Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Drugs?

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 (SHA) use disorder. SHA disorder is described as the continued use of these substances despite impairment or distress. The strong desire to take the drugs will cause problems in controlling intake, will lead to increased tolerance and a state of withdrawal. SHA cause problems with memory and depression. SHA may be prescribed by a doctor for several conditions, including sleep problems and anxiety. You may not be addicted to the drugs, but in case you are using them occasionally without medical supervision, it may be important to seek medical help to prevent your situation from worsening.

While it is unlikely that you have sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic (SHA) use disorder, you are displaying a sign related to it. Intoxication can cause severe depression that can lead to suicide (attempts). At high doses SHA can lead to respiratory depression and hypotension, which may lead to death. Common complications are fights and interference with work or school performance. SHA 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. 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.