That nurse that took you off cold turkey was like the sadistic doctor that did the same to me, either ignorant or sadistic. I lean towards ignorance, if you read my above post about my own medical training.

I feel really bad for you and so wish I could help. I would like to become an advocate for mental health if I could ever get over this social anxiety caused by this. I was always sociable and loved being around people. Now I've turned into this awful troll that I despise. I have my nursing license that I worked so hard for and continue to do what is necessary to keep, just going to waste. I'm not helping anyone! I long to help people but cannot hardly help myself anymore. I truly do believe that long term benzo use took that away from me, I started being unable to think or function in my work and did not understand why. Now I know why. What a great loss!!!

Angelique, please take it easy on yourself. I do think healing will come. Feel free to PM me if you like.