The term "are racked" can be used to describe a multitude of situations where someone or something is suffering or experiencing intense distress. However, there are many synonyms that can be used instead of this phrase to add variety to your writing or speech. Some of these synonyms include "anguished," "tormented," "afflicted," "agonized," and "harassed." Each of these words has a slightly different connotation, so it's important to choose the one that best fits the context of what you're trying to convey. By swapping out "are racked" for one of these synonyms, you can improve your writing by making it more descriptive, engaging, and impactful.