Hi, I’m a Trainee Counselling Psychologist at the University of East London researching people’s experiences of ongoing healing from benzodiazepine physical dependence, withdrawal and/or protracted harm.
The aim is to explore the ongoing experience of healing and find out what people feel helped them to come off and stay off benzodiazepines and what, if anything, has helped/is helping them toward regaining a subjective sense of wellbeing. I would also like to hear people’s views on what they think services to support people with physical dependence and harm in the UK should look like or include. The interviews will take place on Microsoft Teams (a video application similar to Zoom).
I am looking to involve people who:
- Are age 18 and over
- Live in the UK
- Took prescribed benzodiazepines continuously for at least one month
- Successfully stopped taking benzodiazepines at least one year ago (you do NOT need to be symptom-free or no longer experiencing harm from benzodiazepines)
- Who withdrew from benzodiazepines only at the time (not tapering/stopping multiple medications at the same time)
- Do not feel that they are currently struggling with other prescribed medicines
- Do not feel they are struggling with misuse of recreational drugs or alcohol
- Would not find it too upsetting to talk about their experience in an interview
Your privacy will be fully protected. Your name or any identifying information will not be included in the research findings.
If you are interested in participating or have any questions, please email me on u1928290@uel.ac.uk. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have. If you know anyone else who might like to participate, please feel free to share this text and my contact information.
Thank you very much and I look forward to speaking to some of you.
Aslı Anık
