Letter to the Editor – Xanax Abuse

This Letter to the Editor is solely the opinion of its author.

It does not reflect the opinion of this newspaper.

Jason Good

One of the lesser-known drugs of abuse is Xanax. In today’s society, most of the attention has been placed on opioid, methamphetamine, and alcohol addiction. Unfortunately, not a lot of attention has been placed on other, major drugs of abuse, especially Xanax. 

Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication that is part of a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. These types of medications are mild to moderate tranquilizers and they exist in the medicine cabinets of many families across the country. Abusing this drug has become popular among the younger generation. Slang like “eating bars” or “getting xanned out” are popular phrases that have even made its way into some current hip hop music. Either way you look at it, it’s very troubling.

Our community needs to be very aware of this problem so we can start to try and take control of it. Xanax is extremely easy to get these days. Doctors are under a lot of scrutiny for writing prescriptions for opioids, but not so much for Xanax. Not only is Xanax dangerous if taken in high doses, but it acts as an entry point into the world of addiction. 

As COVID-19 has taken a lot of attention off of the drug crisis, in my opinion, it’s time to refocus and get our kids off drugs. It will make for a much safer community for everyone. 

Narconon Colorado wants to remind friends, families, and community members that Xanax abuse is a major problem in our community. A lot of attention has been placed on opioids, methamphetamine, and other drugs; however, Xanax abuse is more prevalent than ever before. Unfortunately, this drug exists in many family’s medicine cabinets and can be available for anyone to take. 

For more information regarding Xanax addiction, visit: https://www.narconon-colorado.org/blog/xanax-how-the-younger-generation-got-hooked-on-bars.html or for free screenings or referrals, call 970-484-2023