Depressant Addiction Treatment

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Depressant Addiction Treatment in Massachusetts

Depressants are often prescribed to help people feel calm, sleep better, or manage anxiety. But for many, what starts as relief becomes reliance. If you’re taking more than prescribed, mixing with alcohol, or feeling like you can’t function without your meds, you’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. At Northstar Recovery Center, we help people take back control from drugs like Xanax, Ativan, Ambien, and more. Contact us today to learn more about depressant addiction treatment in Massachusetts.

What Are Depressants?

Depressants are substances that slow down the brain and nervous system. They’re commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, seizures, and insomnia. Some are legal medications. Others are used recreationally or without a prescription. Either way, they all carry a high risk of dependency and can be dangerous—especially when used long-term or in combination with other drugs.

Here are some of the most common depressants we treat:

  • Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, Valium): Fast-acting sedatives often prescribed for anxiety or panic.
  • Barbiturates (Phenobarbital, Secobarbital): Older medications with a high risk of overdose and dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
  • Z-drugs (Ambien, Lunesta): Sleep aids that are often misused or taken beyond what’s prescribed.
  • Alcohol: Technically a depressant and one of the most commonly abused substances, especially when paired with other sedatives.

It’s easy to lose track of how much or how often you’re using these drugs. But if you feel uneasy without them, that’s a sign your body has developed a dependence.

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The Hidden Risks of Depressant Use

Because many depressants come in prescription bottles, it’s easy to underestimate how risky they can be. But misuse can lead to blackouts, slowed breathing, accidental overdose, or withdrawal symptoms that can be life-threatening.

Trying to stop using drugs like benzodiazepines or barbiturates on your own can cause serious complications, including seizures, psychosis, and death. That’s why professional care isn’t just helpful, it’s necessary.

Signs You Might Need Help 

Getting off of depressants is no easy task. The earlier you can get help for yourself or your loved one, the better the chances of success. Here are some early warning signs to look out for:

  • Taking more pills than prescribed, or running out early
  • Feeling anxious or shaky when you miss a dose
  • Using alcohol to cope or enhance the effect
  • Gaps in memory, slowed reaction time, or mood swings
  • Lying to your doctor or keeping your use secret
  • Struggling to quit, even if you want to


If any of these feel familiar, you’re not weak. Your brain and body have adapted to a drug, and healing is possible with the right support.

Get Help With Recovery Costs

Most Major Insurances Accepted

We are in-network with major insurance providers and accept most plans. Fill out the form on the right for a no obligation benefit verification. We’ll help you understand exactly what (if any) out of pocket costs will be. If we don’t accept your insurance, we work closely with facilities who do and will recommend the best treatment option for your insurance coverage.

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Our Approach to Depressant Addiction Treatment

At Northstar Recovery Center, we tailor care to each person’s needs, offering:

  • Day Treatment (PHP): A structured, supportive program for people who need intensive care during the day while living at home or in recovery housing.
  • Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): A flexible option for those who still need accountability, therapy, and peer support while rebuilding their routines.
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment: We help you work through underlying mental health issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, or insomnia that may have fueled your use.
  • Therapeutic Support: From individual counseling to trauma-informed groups and relapse prevention, we help you build new skills and strengthen your recovery.

Experts in addiction

You Don’t Have to Numb Out to Feel Safe

If you’re ready to feel calm, clear, and capable again without needing pills to get through the day, we’re ready to help.

Call us at (888) 311-0911 or fill out the form to learn more about our depressant addiction treatment programs.

Our Testimonials

Check Out What People Are Saying

Northstar Recovery Center is equipped with a wonderful team who truly cares. Feeling welcome, safe, and supported while receiving help for addiction is crucial, and Northstar does it all and more! Northstar encourages family involvement and offers individualized treatment specific to each client who walks through the door. They truly go above and beyond.

Emily S.

The team at Northstar helped me dig out of one of the worst times of my life. The life skills I learned here will stay with me forever. From the owners to the therapists + recovery specialists everyone here is extremely knowledgeable and professional. Special shoutout to my therapist Karen who was kind, understanding and proactive in helping me with my recovery!

Dominic D.

From the first time I walked into Northstar I was greeted by many smiling faces. Those faces turned into confidants that have made my sobriety successful. Each and every staff members priority is the well being of their clients. The past 6 weeks, I have learned so much about my allergy (alcohol) and coping skills on how to remain sober for today and tomorrow. I highly recommend Northstar Recovery.

Kymberly D.

Northstar is an excellent environment for our loved ones who are seeking help with addiction. The entire staff is caring, kind and very helpful. They go well beyond what is expected to help each person. I give NorthStar at least 5 stars.

Bruce G.

Northstar has truly been a godsend. The staff is super friendly and takes time to learn everyone's name. They say good morning and make you feel welcomed. The groups are fantastic. They also offer yoga and sound healing groups. They explore different styles of recovery so that everyone can find what works for them. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for help. There is a path to recovery and they will help you find yours.

Carlos R.

Begin Your Journey Today

There is Life After Addiction

If you landed here for the first time or are looking to get clean after a relapse, you’ve got a home at Northstar. Start your recovery journey today and you’ll never have to be alone again. Call us at (888) 311-0911 to get started.