Prozac nation - Popularity of popping pills growing

AS the pressures of life intensify in Ireland today, growing numbers of people are turning to tranquillisers, sedatives and anti-depressant drugs for stress relief.

So widespread is this form of medication that it is now being used by one out of every four people on welfare. Almost half those in divorce situations are on ‘downers’ while women use them twice as much as men.

Given the serious dangers associated with prescription drugs, these are alarming statistics. Their growing popularity is in line with global trends, reflecting the dramatic changes in Irish lifestyles.