"dad always had some amount of general anxiety but managed it reasonably.  in approx 1982 he was prescribed xanax after his dad died unexpectedly and he was instructed to take x as needed.  he&#039;s been on and off x ever since then and has needed progressively more.  about 20 years ago he &quot;graduated&quot; to other medications including anti-depressants and at one point was on a combo that resulted in a nearly-successful suicide attempt.  he never had suicidal thoughts before or after that particular combo.  he&#039;s now old and his life is in ruins.  he takes x throughout the day but is at the max and cannot take more.  please be aware once you start on these medications you&#039;re in it for life.  dr&#039;s know this -- job security for them!"