New Book by an Antiguan Author Gives Hope

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Books

Sunday, 26 July 2009 05:55

By Vynne Baylissa Frederick

“Benzo-Wise: A Recovery Companion” is a widely acclaimed self-help book which is proving to be a lifeline to many thousands worldwide. It is written by Vynne Baylissa Frederick, a former Antiguan resident, now a mental health counsellor based in the United Kingdom.

The book tells of her miraculous and inspiring recovery from a harrowing reaction to a drug  prescribed by her doctor for a facial tic. Filled with rich insights and practical wisdom, “Benzo-Wise: A Recovery Companion” offers profound guidance, healing and hope for those who have unwittingly become dependent on this highly addictive class of drugs known as 'benzos'.  

Benzos, which include Valium, Ativan, Xanax, Rivotril and the date rape drug, Rohypnol, and 'Z' drugs such as Ambien and Lunesta, are also used recreationally and illegally. Although when prescribed for short-term use they are deemed safe, with chronic use addictions develop, they lose their efficacy and patients gradually need increasing amounts to have the desired effect. Unfortunately, this is what is believed to have happened to Michael Jackson who, according to a recent CNN news report, was addicted to benzos and took more than ten Xanax daily.  

The author was inspired to put pen to paper after enduring the most frightening and prolonged withdrawal as she weaned off the drug. More than two million people in the United Kingdom and the USA are addicted to benzodiazepines, and a significant number from the Caribbean have also become dependent. Many were prescribed the drug for medical conditions and were not warned of its addictive properties. According to Professor Malcolm Lader of the UK's Institute of Psychiatry, “It is more difficult to withdraw people from benzodiazepines than it is from heroin.”  

This gem of a book includes information on how to manage withdrawal symptoms, tips for counsellors, doctors and relatives, journal logs and uplifting reflections. The book's medical information has been reviewed and approved by Professor C Heather Ashton, DM, FRCP, Clinical Psycho-pharmacologist and a world leading expert on benzodiazepines. It is truly an example of a personal challenge being turned into a blessing for others.

Vynne Baylissa Frederick is the founder of the “Benzo-Wise” Helpline which supports thousands globally and promotes benzo awareness. As a young adult she lived and worked in Antigua and fondly considers it her second home and the island where she 'grew up'.   

“Benzo-Wise: A Recovery Companion” is available at Amazon and can also be ordered from your local book retailer quoting ISBN #978-0982375907.

 

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