The vast majority of the people I’ve met who have taken psychiatric medications regretted taking them. Most commonly, they regretted taking these medications due to side effects that often made them feel worse. And also because they became dependent on the pills, and found them very difficult to stop.
Numerous studies have shown that psychiatric medications often cause more problems than they solve. I’m not saying they have absolutely no use, but I am saying that it is a crime to prescribe them to millions of people.
Most of the people prescribed common psychiatric medications such as anti-depressants simply do not need them. In fact, many people who are given anti-depressants aren’t even suffering with depression, they’ve just been experiencing a bit of a low mood. But this is normal, and is not a reason to give people medications that could cause them serious side effects and long-term issues.
Research clearly demonstrates, people who recover from depression without taking psychiatric medication are less likely to have a relapse.
If you are taking anti-depressants, consider talking to your doctor about coming off the pills. But come off them slowly, slower than the doctor will usually advise. By doing this, you will allow your neurochemistry to adjust more gradually, and then you can come off these medications whilst minimising withdrawal symptoms. It’s known as tapering, and it is finally being more widely acknowledged by mainstream medical services.
Millions of children are also routinely being prescribed psychiatric medications for conditions such as ‘Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder’. However, the vast majority of children diagnosed do not need to be given psychiatric drugs. And the drugs frequently given can cause adverse long-term effects.
Many psychiatric drugs are prescribed by medical doctors who receive only very basic psychological training. Typically, their evaluation of a patient is very brief and rudimentary. And it is also worth mentioning that doctors often get a financial bonus for prescribing psychiatric medications.
There needs to be a considerable overhaul of the psychiatric model. From diagnoses of conditions, to the training of medical doctors and psychiatrists, to the drug companies and the drugs themselves. All those involved need to recognise the damage being done and begin to work towards change. Profit should not be placed before health.
Successful non-drug approaches for treating common psychological imbalances are very well established and should be widely implemented.
For example, exercise, sunlight, nutritious foods, clean water, vitamin supplementation, lifestyle changes, social connection and relaxation techniques. Whilst also offering education and therapy to teach people about beneficial life skills, and how to use their psychological resources.
*The information provided in this article should not be treated as a substitute for professional medical advice.
© Adrian Connock
