Mother's Little Helper

Mother's Little Helper is a term that gained popularity in the 1960s, primarily in the United States and the United Kingdom, to describe a range of psychotropic drugs, particularly benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), which were prescribed to housewives to help them cope with the stresses of daily life and motherhood. The term was popularized by the The Rolling Stones in their 1966 song "Mother's Little Helper," which critiqued the growing trend of prescribing these drugs for issues related to domestic unhappiness and anxiety.

Background

During the 1950s and 1960s, the role of women in society was predominantly centered around the home, with societal expectations emphasizing the importance of being a perfect housewife and mother. This period saw a significant rise in the prescription of benzodiazepines to women, as these drugs were marketed as a safe and effective solution for anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. The term "Mother's Little Helper" emerged as a colloquial expression that underscored the reliance on these medications to manage the pressures of domestic life.

Pharmacology

Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA_A receptor, which results in sedative, hypnotic (sleep-inducing), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. While these drugs were effective in providing short-term relief from anxiety and stress, their long-term use was associated with risks such as dependency, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.

Cultural Impact

The song "Mother's Little Helper" by The Rolling Stones brought widespread attention to the issue, highlighting the societal pressures on women and the increasing dependence on prescription drugs as a coping mechanism. The song's lyrics reflect a critical view of the medicalization of women's issues and the potential dangers of drug dependency.

Controversy and Legacy

The widespread use of benzodiazepines and the term "Mother's Little Helper" sparked a debate about the medicalization of everyday life and the social pressures faced by women. It also raised concerns about the ethics of pharmaceutical marketing and the long-term health impacts of these drugs. Over time, the awareness of the risks associated with long-term use of benzodiazepines has led to more cautious prescribing practices and a greater emphasis on non-pharmacological approaches to managing stress and anxiety.

See Also

• Benzodiazepine dependence
• Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome
• Feminism in the 1960s
• The Rolling Stones
• Societal views on drugs