Signs of recent Benzodiazepine use include calmness, relaxation and sleepiness, decreased anxiety and enlarged pupils.
WHAT?
Benzodiazepines (pronounced ben-zoh-die-az-a-peens) are a highly effective prescribed medication used to treat anxiety and sleeplessness. They can seem like a miracle cure for young people with anxiety, panic disorders, flashbacks and nightmares however daily use for (roughly) longer than 4 weeks can lead to dependency. When mixed with other drugs (such as alcohol) benzos can dramatically increase the risk of overdoses.
OTHER NAMES
Benzos, Xanax, (Alprazolam), Diaz, Valium, Vallies, (Diaxepam), Tranx, Sleepers, Downers, Serras (Serepax), Moggies (Mogadon), Normies (Normison) Temazes (Temazapam), Sleeping Pills, Tranquilisers.
SIGNS SOMEONE HAS RECENTLY USED THIS DRUG
Signs of recent Benzodiazepine use include calmness, relaxation and sleepiness, decreased anxiety and enlarged pupils.
SIGNS THAT SOMEONE MIGHT BE USING OR DEALING AT MY SCHOOL
Benzodiazepines are pills or capsules purchased from pharmacies with a prescription and are usually swallowed. Occasionally they are injected or taken rectally. Benzodiazepine refers to a whole family of drugs and many different brand names. Call YoDAA if you are unsure whether or not a medication is a Benzodiazepine.
HOW COMMON IS USAGE?
In 2010, 3.2 per cent of the Australian population had used tranquillisers/sleeping pills (including benzodiazepines) for non-medical purposes (National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2010).
IMPLICATIONS FOR THE CLASSROOM
Many young people stumble upon Benzodiazepines as something that helps them with untreated mental health symptoms. For such young people, benzodiazepines may help them to feel more confident and less troubled at school. These temporary gains can lead to greater difficulties if dependency sets in. Intervention from a understanding school wellbeing staff is a good start.
IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL CAMP
There are laws concerning the storage and handling of Benzodiazapines. If a young person is prescribed a Benzodiazapine, their Doctor and Pharmacist should be contacted early in the School Camp planning process to arrange a way for them to get their medication whilst away from home.
A young person who takes Benzodiazepines daily (regardless of whether it is prescribed or not) may experience anxiety, agitation and tremors if they suddenly do not have access to the medication. This can progress into more severe withdrawal symptoms. This should be treated as a medical emergency and 000 called.
Didn’t find what you are looking for? We’ve just given you the most relevant fast facts for school teachers. For a more comprehensive guide we recommend the ADF’s fact sheet. Remember, if you are worried about a young person in your school, talk to YoDAA.
