Hi crober,
I took medazepam (similar benzo), in small dosage (10 mg/day) for 8 years. I don`t know if it was only because of it or the Elavil I was also taking but my memory and focus were shot. I actually went off them for this reason alone.
Even though I slowly went off them over 6 months I had terrible withdrawal that lasted one and a half year and during withdrawal my short term memory got even worst; some 50% damage. I couldn`t work anymore. Now I am almost 2 years off any medication and my memory is slowly improving; I can function to about 70% capacity.
So I think there is hope…but such a long time to recover is a high price to pay… Many times I thought it will never get better and considered to go back on meds not knowing if it`s withdrawal or depression.
I too felt good for over 7 years out of the 8 I took it.

If you have any question about the withdrawal I`ll be happy to answer.

Zena