Which of the following drags are normally used as medicines to help patients cape with mental illnesses like depression and insomnia?
a. Barbiturates
b. Amphetamines
c. Benzodiazepins
d. LSD

Options

A. a, b and c
B. b, c and d
C. a, c and d
D. a,b,c and d

Answer

To determine which drugs are normally used as medicines to help patients cope with mental illnesses like depression and insomnia, we will analyze each option provided:

1. **Barbiturates**:
- Barbiturates are central nervous system depressants that can help induce sleep and are often prescribed for insomnia. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which promotes relaxation and sedation. Therefore, barbiturates can be used to treat insomnia.

2. **Amphetamines**:
- Amphetamines are stimulants that increase alertness and energy levels. They are not typically used to treat depression or insomnia; rather, they are used to treat conditions like ADHD and narcolepsy. Thus, amphetamines are not suitable for treating depression or insomnia.

3. **Benzodiazepines**:
- Benzodiazepines are also central nervous system depressants that are commonly prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and sometimes depression. They work similarly to barbiturates by enhancing GABA activity, leading to sedation and relaxation. Therefore, benzodiazepines are used to treat both depression and insomnia.

4. **LSD**:
- LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) is a hallucinogenic drug that alters perception and mood. It is not used as a treatment for depression or insomnia and can actually exacerbate mental health issues. Therefore, LSD is not appropriate for treating these conditions.

Based on this analysis, the drugs that are normally used as medicines to help patients cope with mental illnesses like depression and insomnia are **Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines**.

Thus, the correct answer to the question is **a. Barbiturates and c. Benzodiazepines**.

### Summary of the solution:
- **Barbiturates**: Used for insomnia.
- **Amphetamines**: Not used for depression or insomnia.
- **Benzodiazepines**: Used for anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
- **LSD**: Not used for depression or insomnia.