anxiety
"I have taken Xanax for about 25 years but only as needed.  There are many years I never took any & there are years I took it for a few weeks to help with my Anxiety, stress of having a child with a deadly disease & the depression that ensues.  I usually take the .5mg & cut it in half and only use it 1-2 times a day, occasionally 3 halves a day.  It soothes me & helps my constantly chattering, negative mind take a break.  I have tried SSRIs & have symptoms of being allergic to them, so can't take them, ie muscle twitching, rash & itching.  So, Xanax is my only recourse.  I know it an be addictive so am very careful to take it only as needed, short courses, & usually about half the amount the Dr. prescribes.  It has helped me greatly."