Axis 2: Excitatory–Neuroinflammatory Patterns in Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Week 4 of my 12-week Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Biology series.

When GABA restraint falls, excitatory signaling increases, and neuroimmune pathways are activated.

Common Axis 2 symptoms include:

• Burning or tingling sensations

• “Brain on fire” feeling

• Deep nerve pain

• Pressure, internal heat

• Sensory overload

Axis 2 symptoms often worsen with stress load, screens, heat, illness, or exertion, reflecting heightened excitatory–inflammatory reactivity rather than psychological distress.