I've tried several phsyc doctors they won't prescribe xanax either. I've been on xanax
It is getting harder in some places to get benzos. Especially hard in Britain. But in your case, Mom is right, this probably isn't the right med. Therapy is probably the right choice as you know where you're problem started -- most of us really don't. What you really need to do is get over the trauma and move on, and when that's hard to do, therapy can be very helpful. Drugs might suppress some symptoms, but they won't cure your grief. And I don't think benzos would be the drug to take for that problem, most likely. But they're not illegal, just hard to get, and some docs don't want to get involved with addictive drugs right now because the feds are on one of their periodic tears about addictive drugs. If you're insistent about taking a benzo and your doc won't prescribe it, see a psychiatrist, they probably know how to do it within the law. But again, I'd try talking this one out -- a drug may very well just postpone the already prolonged grieving from dissipating over time. Good luck whatever you try.
I looked up Arkansas and they do have legislation making it harder for doctors to prescribe benzo's. They have to look at something called the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program in order to prescribe. All things are monitored and controlled. I think it is fair to ask for clarification though from your doctor.
What other things do you do for the grief and ptsd you basically have after your husband's death?
I will look to see if there is a law, but there is probably a better choice for you if you are having anxiety long term than Xanax. The problem with Xanax is dependency and addiction. Your pcp may fear this and hence, be reluctant to prescribe it for an extended period of time. You probably take it as needed so not a situation you have going on, but food for thought. I'm so very sorry about seeing your husband die---- that HAS to be very traumatic and horrifying and certainly, visions of that are going to linger for a very long time with perhaps a panicky feeling when it happens?