What causes barbiturate abuse?
The exact cause of barbiturate abuse is not known. You may start abusing these drugs after physical or mental stress, such as the loss of a loved one. You may think that taking these drugs will make the problems in your life better. You may also abuse barbiturates to try to relieve your anxiety, depression (deep sadness), loneliness, or tension. Having friends or family members who use drugs, or having other mental disorders may increase your chance of abusing barbiturates.