[...] I'm moved by your post. This is why this forum is invaluable because there's so many people suffering many months and years from these so called " safe, non-addicting, non-dependent" drugs that our trusted doctors prescribed for way too long. This is going to sound bad for a minute so please bear with me....
I hope this site shuts down- because there's nobody suffering from these drugs that need help.
I hope this site get less people joining it each year- because people have been educated and decide that little pill isn't worth it.
I think all of us is faking it until we make it. Our family and friends don't understand this even if we tell them everyday. They'll only have an idea. I see you were on them a long time. I was on Zolipem for 7 years. Oh how many times I wish I could turn back time and tell the doctor who gave it to me " you take it yourself!" It has taken my quality of life from me for nearly 3 years. A year before my taper, about a year tapering and my 1 year off. I'd like to extend to you a ray of hope. Please take it. There's still hope for you. Have you read the success stories of people healing after 5 or more years? Not that I'm saying it will take you that long. Keep holding on. Hugs to you dear

Feel free to reach out. We're here for support.