Outpatient Benzodiazepine Withdrawal and the Occupational Therapist

Abstract

Prolonged use of benzodiazepines (minor tranquillizers) can cause physical and psychological dependence and intoxication. There are often severe withdrawal symptoms when the drugs are reduced or stopped, forming a problem which is becoming increasingly recognized. This article describes the work being carried out in a community setting by two senior occupational therapists who have started outpatient benzodiazepine withdrawal groups. It outlines the problem, the difficulties experienced during withdrawal, the selection of group members, and the organization of the groups and their content. The article concludes with two brief case studies.