u/Former-Hat-3326

I've been using benzos for about 10 years now, and I've reached a point where I'm stuck. I honestly don't know how to safely taper off them on my own, and the thought of trying to get a legitimate prescription feels overwhelming.

I'm torn between two options and would appreciate any insight:

1.Should I try to find "loopholes" to get a script? I've heard stories about people navigating the system, but I'm worried about the risks and whether it's even a sustainable solution.

2.Should I be completely honest with a psychiatrist about my decade-long use? My biggest fear is being labeled a "drug seeker" and being denied any help at all, especially when I'm looking for a safe way to manage this or start a supervised taper.

Does anyone have experience with psychiatrists in the Chicago area who are understanding about long-term use and won't just shut the door on you? I'm looking for someone who specializes in harm reduction or slow tapers (like the Ashton Method).

Any advice on how to approach that first conversation with a new doctor would be incredibly helpful. I just want to do this safely.