Abstract
Background and Significance: Anxiety Disorders affect nearly 18% of adult population annually (SAMHSA, 2013.) Per APA, (1990) & Ashton (1994), prescribers should limit use to short-term crisis or to prepare for therapy. Unintended consequences of benzodiazepines: abuse, dependence, compromised sobriety, withdrawal seizures, rebound anxiety (APA, 1990, p. 35)
Purpose of pilot: To develop/ implement an evidence based pilot program using internet-based, CBT to taper benzos with minimal/no perceived participant distress.
Theoretical Framework: The recovery model (Anthony, 1993).
Project Design: Design. Pilot project using a one-group, pre-test, post-test model.
Sample. Convenience sample of seven clients; (18 years old on long-term benzos)
Setting. Urban community mental health center, 1,900+ adults
Project Design: daily dosage of benzo recorded; administered GAD-7 for baseline score; provided with the tools and education to access tool; recorded active engagement in therapy; dose reduced by one-half pill every month; prescriber monitored client’s subjective experience; monitored use of tool. At conclusion: GAD-7 administered; current dosage of benzo recorded; use/non-use of web-based program recorded; recorded active engagement in therapy services.
Evaluation: All participants reduced /discontinue benzos by end project; all demonstrated acceptable level of anxiety throughout pilot; no participants used tool offered
Keywords: benzodiazepines, anxiety treatment, community mental healt
