[ad_1]
Thus, the prescription of antidepressants exceeded 70 million in England last year (report of 29 March). We also know that 16% of adults receive one or more prescriptions each year, one in six. This is even higher for women and in disadvantaged areas. The president of the Royal College of GPs said that doctors "only prescribe medication to a patient after a frank and frank discussion with him, given his particular situation". In 10-15 minutes? Really? What is the proof of his request? She adds that "it is very important that the growing number of prescriptions for antidepressants is not automatically considered a bad thing". Antidepressants are only slightly better than placebo and carry many risks, including emotional numbness, badual dysfunction and prolonged withdrawal effects. What level of prescription will persuade the representatives of general practitioners and psychiatrists that this epidemic of over-prescription is inappropriate? One in four? One on three? Seven out of 10?
The main reason prescriptions are rising is not due to reduced stigma, increased level of "depression" or Brexit anxiety. This is because more people are dependent, they take longer and they can not go out. It is time to show leadership in the public interest rather than defending an indefensible situation.
Prof. John Read Clinical Psychologist, University of East London, Stevie Lewis Victim of antidepressant addiction, Chepstow, Dr. Joanna Moncrieff Psychiatrist, University College London, James Moore Person suffering from antidepressant addiction, Monmouthshire, Prof Peter Kinderman Clinical Psychologist, University of Liverpool, Dr. James Davies Medical anthropologist, University of Roehampton
• I am 65 years old. For most of my life, I had confidence in myself, I was successful in my career and I was sociable. At the end of last year, I developed severe anxiety and panic attacks. Yes, I have prescription medications for my condition, but my GP has been very quick to suggest a cognitive-behavioral therapy. This has radically changed life and, at least in Staffordshire, self-referral is rapidly leading to support from qualified therapists. Would it be the same everywhere? the Guardian is right to point out the problem (editorial, April 1).
George Herbert
Leek, Staffordshire
• Join the debate – email [email protected]
• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters
• Do you have a photo you would like to share with Guardian readers? Click here to download it and we will post the best submissions in the letters of our print edition
Source link
