Psychotherapy High Wycombe Psychotherapy High Wycombe - Last updated 07 January 2026

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DSM-IV: Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Withdrawal

The brain adapts to use of a sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic in such a way that symptoms may result when the substance is reduced or discontinued, leading to diagnosis of this Substance-Related Disorder.

Diagnostic criteria for 292.0 Sedative, Hypnotic, or Anxiolytic Withdrawal

A. Cessation of (or reduction in) sedative, hypnotic, or anxiolytic use that has been heavy and prolonged.

B. Two (or more) of the following, developing within several hours to a few days after Criterion A:

(1) autonomic hyperactivity (e.g. sweating or pulse rate greater than 100)
(2) increased hand tremor
(3) Insomnia
(4) nausea or vomiting
(5) transient visual, tactile, or auditory hallucinations or illusions
(6) psychomotor agitation
(7) anxiety
(8) grand mal seizures

C. The symptoms in Criterion B cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

D. The symptoms are not due to a general medical condition and are not better accounted for by another mental disorder.
Specify if:
With Perceptual Disturbances

Based on the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition APA

The online Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders lists most of the major psychological disorders and illnesses and lists the criteria that must be fulfilled in order for a diagnosis to be made. This resource is not a substitute for proper professional psychiatric diagnosis.