You would think being in the military, one of the most regimented and structured work environments imaginable, would rule out any chances of needing Xanax. But contrary to popular belief, this is not a drug that is exclusively for those with social anxiety.
Anyone who suffers from frequent bouts of anxiety can benefit from it.
It’s estimated that 20% of people will experience an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives, and many people serving in the armed forces are no exception. In fact, according to data collected by the Department of Defense and analyzed by the Military
Times , the rate of soldiers using mental health services increased by more than 50% between 2003 and 2013.
There are many different reasons why someone may need Xanax while serving in the military; stress is often a factor, but so are other common factors like dealing with personal trauma or life-threatening situations every day. This article will cover everything you need to know about getting a Xanax prescription while serving in the military – keep reading to learn more!
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Can You Be Prescribed Xanax In The Military?
Yes. While the drug is often associated with anxiety disorders, it also has a long history of being used to treat anxiety disorders. Xanax is classified as a benzodiazepine and is generally used as a short-term treatment for anxiety disorders.
The first thing to note when debating whether or not you can get a Xanax prescription while in the military is that the process for obtaining one is going to be very different than if you weren’t serving.
While civilians can simply make an appointment with their doctor and walk out with a Xanax prescription a few hours later, military members are subject to a variety of extra steps and processes before they can get their hands on the drug.
Why You Might Need To Be Prescribed Xanax In The Military
With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the common reasons why someone in the military may want to be prescribed Xanax. By the end of this section, you should be able to make an informed decision as to whether you think Xanax is right for you.
If you suffer from anxiety, you may want to be prescribed Xanax while in the military if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Extreme worry that interferes with your daily life
- Extreme worry that interferes with your sleep
- An intense fear of everyday situations
- An intense fear of social situations
- An intense fear of being in a specific situation or place
What Is The Process For Obtaining A Xanax Prescription In The Military?
There are a few steps you need to go through to be prescribed Xanax while in the military. In some cases, you may have to see a therapist first. For example, the Department of
Veterans Affairs offers therapy for veterans at no cost, so you would see a therapist there. If you’re not a veteran, you might see a therapist at the TRICARE network.
If you need an immediate Xanax prescription, you may be able to get one right away.
Otherwise, you will most likely be given a prescription for a benzodiazepine. If you need additional therapy sessions, you may have to wait until you’ve finished them before you can get a prescription for Xanax.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Xanax Prescription?
Unfortunately, there is no way to know for sure how long it will take to get a Xanax prescription within the military. Depending on where you’re getting your prescription and what one you’re trying to obtain, you may be able to walk out with a prescription right away.
If you’re getting a prescription from TRICARE, you may have to wait weeks or even months before getting it approved. It’s always best to prepare yourself for potential delays in the process so you don’t get your hopes up too high.
Alternatives To Xanax While Serving In The Military
There are a few alternatives to Xanax while serving in the military. If you’re experiencing frequent bouts of anxiety, talk with your doctor about whether they think one of these would be a better option for you.
- Buspirone (Buspar): A medication that is used to treat anxiety disorders. It is not a benzodiazepine, so it does not cause drowsiness.
- Other Benzodiazepines: Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium are all examples of other benzodiazepines that you can be prescribed as alternatives to Xanax in the military.
- Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These are antidepressants that can also be used to treat anxiety disorders.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This is an alternative to therapy that can help you deal with anxiety more effectively.
- Mindfulness: This is another form of CBT that is becoming increasingly popular.
Bottom Line
If you suffer from frequent bouts of anxiety, you may want to be prescribed Xanax while in the military. Before you ask your doctor for a prescription, however, you should learn everything you can about the drug and its side effects. This way, you’ll know what to expect and be able to plan accordingly.
If you need help managing anxiety, you can visit our site to find useful information on self-help techniques and other resources that may be helpful to you. Remember, anxiety is very common and you are not alone!
