Alarming Statistic - Xanax Users 40,000,000

A startling statistic: 46,000,000 prescriptions a year of Xanax for American coping with stress and anxiety, a drug that is very addictive. Is this drug the modern replacement of Valium? Or alcohol? Or ????

Anxiety Disorders are more acceptable than other mental illness or behavior problems that persons visit psychologists for help and therapy. Phobias, anorexia, drug abuses, and so on seem to be a plague of the people of their own making. 

I viewed a television program (CBS) this morning highlighting the dangers of Xanax when taken with other substances.  Michael Jackson was cited as a user of Xanax.  Do Americans turn to drugs either by prescription or otherwise to solve their personal problems?  What does this imply for our future which requires full ability to cope with reality of life without the aid of mind or mood altering drugs?  Driving under the influence is a frequent offense that comes to mind. It adds inmates to prisons increasing the stress on the citizens to pay for the costs.

In choosing friends, I try to find the most sane and stable so to assure positive influences and interesting peers, but I also have many friends who have physical and mental problems so severe that my own problems seem insignificant and trivial. With the increased use of drugs, an otherwise sane person can quickly become out of control and so much so they are  not even the same person.. My thoughts ponder not only my own bi-polar condition, but the wellness condition of the community, and our American culture. 

What is the lifeline?  Sometimes, you have to self analyze and create your own.  It is not exactly life boat ethics yet, or is it? I am afraid to help some I know because I realize their desperate situation is more than I can turn around and they would perhaps injure me while trying.  The computer offers answers because at least there I can find information, facts, figures, and understand what is happening and safely socialize with others who understand. Many times online friends have the experience and wisdom they share with others and that is greatly appreciated.  Appreciating another helps everyone to work collectively to overcome obstacles and be happier, relieves stress, and reduces the need for drugs or other escapes.  I find that hobbies, reading good books, gardening, pets, or enjoying art activities also helps. Anything you do that focuses your mind and resources on positive plans and achievements toward personal goals is helpful.  Instead of fueling harm, fuel help for yourself and for others and the price of that fuel is free!