What an excellent positive way of looking at our treatment. When I read it, it brought more hope into my heart.

Some thoughts: I'm only on week 13 and often feel impatient with TSM, but once I had psychological counseling for two years with very little effect. Of course, with counseling we all expect it to take a long time, so it doesn't seem so bad. But for some reason, we, as a group, expect our medications to affect us instantly, even though we know TSM takes 4 to 6 months and possibly longer for us benzo users. I don't think there is anyone who would think that counseling would be effective within 4 to 6 months, so why would we think that way about our meds? OK, I'm done philosophizing now.

Bob

Bob,

I'm delighted that reading my most recent post had that effect on you. I didn't expect it - so it's come as a nice surprise.

Thank you.

All the best,

V.

Very inspirational to me as well, Virgil.

Has anyone noticed that the Benzo Bunch, on average, is having about the same rate of progress as others on this board?

Hi WTE, Lena,

Thanks to both of you for your kind words.

All the best,

V.

Yes, Lena, I have definitely noticed that - I see no discernible differences in the overall patterns of benzo users as compared to non-users. A few are exeriencing definite success. . .some limited 'glimpses' of success. . .and others are still trudging at high rates of drinking. Rather the same as our general population.

This is all so very useful for those who come into TSM in the future. I don't think we begin to realize how our individual 'patterns of recovery' will be an inspiration for those going through similar experiences. Thanks, especially, to all you benzo users who did NOT give up the ship! There's a special place in heaven for you!

I, for one will stay the course. Not really sure what is happening with me yet. I have tried to reduce my units I think because of shame actually. It is like WW when you have to show how much you drank even to yourself, it's tough. Sooo not sure why yet but still here......

WW?

Virgil - you are so incredibly stalwart. I'm so happy you are not giving up.

It's utterly unfair that you are not seeing more progress at this point but I know it will not elude you forever. Even though the Benzo group is experiencing progress, I've got to believe that the Benzos are indeed what are halting yours...keep tapering slowly.

Keep at it -- this will just be a small blip of time in your life after it starts working. Everyone here is rooting for you and LaBear.

Virgil -
On another post, I so fell into your pain and distrust of what's happening here...I am about at the same place and same feelings. Not doing "benzos", but no matter - still not feeling the magic I thought I would by now.

Let's hold hands, shall we...??? Not laughing but just trying to hold on w/ all the other support here. Let's hang in, bro...holding hands w/ ya. It'll be ok. We gotta believe & stay the course and remember those fleeting moments when we felt SOMETHING.

All seems like dialogue from the Twilight Zone doesn't it ?! (LOL) but that's really where we are. I'm here too, you are not alone. But I think it'll be ok.

Bob, lol WW/Weight Watchers!