I believe the two are DIRECTLY related. I am on one (klonopin) that I am totally addicted to for anxiety and sleep. As a matter fact when I get them refilled I have to wait the full 30 days AND show them my ID when I pick them up because it is a controlled substance.

I can't tell you how much that scares the **&^ out of me!

That being said, the drug does its job, better than all the sleeping medications I have ever taken. I still have a broken sleep sometimes, and some nights I can't get to bed and take them in a timely manner and still have trouble, but I manage somehow. But being an alcoholic for YEARS I have an extremely addictive personality (I also have Bipolar as well), so it's just about finding a balance.

I think it sucks that we trade off one addiction for another though (our benzos) but it is what it is. It helps us with our illness and as long as I FINALLY get sleep and keep the mania and delusions away so I can function and stay OUT of the hospital I am good with the benzos.

Good luck on your recovery! (I am also sorry to hear you had to "come out" in front of your AA group, that would have been tough for anyone).

Hugs!