Prescription drugs can be lifesavers when used correctly, but their misuse can lead to severe consequences, especially for mental health. Often viewed as safer than illicit substances, prescription drugs can be equally, if not more, dangerous when abused. Misuse includes taking higher doses than prescribed, using someone else’s medication, or using prescription drugs for recreational purposes. Over time, this abuse can lead to significant mental health issues , many of which are often hidden or overlooked. This article will explore how prescription drug abuse negatively impacts mental health and the importance of seeking help. Prescription Drug Abuse and Its Prevalence Prescription drug abuse is on the rise, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), millions of Americans misuse prescription drugs each year, with opioids, stimulants, and anti-anxiety medications like benzodiazepines being the most commonly abused. The ease o