Ambien isn't technically a benzo by it's chemical structure. But it works on the GABA BZD1 receptor complex just like the benzo's do, so it basically gets to the same place. I guess I lump them together. But nah, I don't really have a problem with Ambien. I don't think Ambien is bad. I don't even think benzos are "bad" necessarily. I know they are a really helpful to many people. Evidently I just joined their ranks. I can't sleep when my husband is away, and it's become clear that not sleeping is my trigger that makes me cycle towards manic. I just wish I didn't have to rely on any of these things. I'm not very articulate, but it's almost like in zonking me out it's like I have to stop being me for a while. Like I need to be turned off "for my own good." (which technically I do, but I don't like it when I think of it like that.) I doubt I'm making sense.