The annual World Benzodiazepine Awareness Day or W-BAD is coming up again.  My guest is Wayne Douglas, co-founder of the event, whose life was overwhelmed by these drugs, which include Valium, Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin and Serax.  Even when taken as prescribed, the benzodiazepines can ruin individual lives and the lives of their family.  They can lead to abuse and dependence, cause withdrawal reactions, and leave individuals with lifelong emotional and cognitive problems.  We also discuss the broader implications for every class of psychiatric drug, all of which can lead to cognitive decline and loss of quality of life, with many causing or contributing to suicide or violence.  Wayne has been a remarkably effective advocate for awareness of harms caused by these drugs, even addressing the Japanese Parliament, the country in which he received the medications.  The show also includes an amazing description of Wayne experiencing the Fukushima earthquake and the subsequent damage to the nuclear power plant.  Wayne Douglas may inspire you to find a group in your city to join in spreading life-saving information about these drugs. If you have been harmed by the “BZs” you will find companionship and inspiration through joining the reform movement.  You can connect at www.w-bad.org