Axis 1: CRH–Adrenergic Activation Morning spikes, surges, tremor, “wired-but-tired.”

Week 3 of our 12-week Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Biology series.

Understanding CRH–Adrenergic Surges in Withdrawal

Axis 1 reflects activation of CRH and sympathetic stress pathways.

When GABA stability is reduced, these circuits become hypersensitive—especially during the sleep–wake transition.

Common patterns include:

 • Early-morning cortisol spikes

 • Internal tremor

 • “Wired but tired”

 • Panic-like surges without psychological panic

These symptoms reflect stress-hormone dysregulation, not personal weakness.