Lorazepam, a popular anti-anxiety medication featured prominently in HBO’s White Lotus, has been linked to alarming rates of addiction and overdose. Despite its potential benefits for treating anxiety disorders, the show’s portrayal of the drug as a convenient solution for everyday stress is problematic.
According to Dr. Holly Schiff, a licensed clinical psychologist, constant references to Lorazepam in the show can contribute to a normalization of self-medicating with prescription drugs, which can be dangerous and lead to addiction. The FDA warns that Lorazepam can aid in social anxiety, but also carries a risk of habit-forming, particularly when taken long-term or at high doses.
The show’s depiction of Lorazepam as a solution for everyday stress is also concerning, as it may perpetuate the idea that medication is a quick fix for anxiety. In reality, anxiety disorders are complex conditions that require comprehensive treatment plans, including therapy, lifestyle changes, and other coping strategies.
Dr. Carole Lieberman, a board-certified psychiatrist, agrees that Lorazepam should only be used under medical supervision and as part of a broader treatment plan. “Anxiety is better treated with talk therapy,” she says. “There are rare occasions when it can be temporarily useful, but you still risk the patient getting addicted to it.”
As 50 million American adults struggle with anxiety disorders, it’s essential to approach prescription medications like Lorazepam with caution and prioritize comprehensive treatment plans that address the root causes of anxiety. By promoting responsible medication use and emphasizing the importance of therapy and lifestyle changes, we can work towards a healthier understanding of anxiety and its treatment options.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14555361/anti-anxiety-drug-parker-posey-character-white-lotus-lorazepam.html