Q:  Is addiction a problem with all anti-anxiety medication?

A:  Addiction can either be physical or psychological.  With physical addiction, physical symptoms are seen when a drug is withdrawn, e.g. the delirium tremens or “DT’s” of alcohol withdrawal.  With psychological addiction it is a desire or belief that the drug is still needed, and often these psychological symptoms can be as problematic as physical symptoms.  Addiction to anti-anxiety medication can be both physical and/or psychological.  The nature of the person and the situation that has produced the anxiety can also impact the addiction potential.  Usually, combining non-drug measures (relaxation techniques, behaviour modification, counselling, etc.) along with medication can result in the greatest benefit with the lowest risk for addiction.