I Was 8 Years Sober From Heroin... Then My Doctor Prescribed Me Klonopin & I Almost Relapsed | Ep 199
Summary
Host Lou addresses online rumors questioning his sobriety by revealing his struggle with prescribed benzodiazepines. He details how Klonopin, taken for anxiety after his father’s death, led to dependency, severe withdrawal symptoms, and exacerbated gambling addiction. Lou explains his current medical tapering process, emphasizing that he is addressing the medication issue while maintaining his recovery date.
Topics discussed
Intro, ads, and setting the stage for Lou's hot seat
Addressing audience comments about Lou's sobriety
Lou's history: Sales job, panic attacks, and initial diagnosis
The slippery slope of benzo addiction and overuse
Horror stories of benzo withdrawal and hospital visit
Ads: REI, AG1, Farmers, Mint Mobile
Starting the taper process and dealing with stigma
Lou's past trauma: Parents' deaths and relationship breakup
The pressure of sales jobs and spiraling mental health
Suicidal thoughts and the reality of mental health struggles
Gambling addiction: The dopamine rush and financial ruin
Benzo side effects, stealing, and the tapering method
Ads: Total Wine and Workday
Future plans: Therapy and managing withdrawal symptoms
Apologizing to the audience and explaining the decision to speak out
Reflecting on the sales job trauma and imposter syndrome
Final apologies, closing thoughts, and outro ads
Listen ad-free on Castria