Use Patterns and Withdrawal Dependency on benzodiazepines can be both psychological and physical. Tolerance develops so the therapeutic dosage doesn't work any longer and the temptation is to increase dosage, or to keep using the drug even though it isn't working. Because insomnia increases temporarily upon ceasing use of benzodiazepines there is a tendency to give up when trying to quit using the drug. It is important to realize that if you have been taking benzodiazepines that insomnia will return for a little while as you stop using that drug. Ask your doctor to review the process of eliminating use of benzodiazepines with you, so you will be prepared.
Many people have a misperception of sleep-wake cycles which influences their drug use.
Benzodiazepines tend to increase stage 2 sleep but reduce stage 3 and 4 sleep which is considered to be the most restorative. You need stage 3 and 4 to renew your body. While you may not be growing anymore, there are still growth hormones released that help your body heal and refresh for the next day. Stage 2 is the least necessary stage of sleep, it tends to be left out when a person is making up for being significantly sleep-deprived. Possible withdrawal plan from benzodiazepines Set goals.