Elizabeth Gallagher

Never in a million years did I think I would be writing materials about coping, thriving and surviving through benzodiazepine withdrawal and recovery. But after using a medication for a short time for stress-induced insomnia, my brain and central nervous system were altered, causing what seemed like a never-ending cascade of mental and physical symptoms. There were many days that my family and I thought I wouldn't make it, but I did. Through the multi-year experience there were many positive things that I learned that I share with the tens of thousands around the globe going through this.

I found what worked for me was not to examine the worst stories--the horror stories as they are called in forums. I figured out at a rudimentary level what was happening to me, and didn't analyze all of the science behind it. I realized that we were all unique, and for me I needed positive, realistic strategies for every moment of the day. I saved all of my journals from that time, and pulled out the things that helped me the most--and the things that were destructive, I realized why.

I've written a book about coping, and a journal to help track progress and feelings, strategies and motivations. It is my belief that I am called to share what helped me in order to help others. No one should feel alone in this process, and it's my hope that readers will sense that I am walking alongside them to encourage them.