Has anyone else noticed...

Psychiatry's long-standing tendency to drown society in antidepressants, prescriptions for most of which are completely unnecessary, is quickly becoming a tendency to drown society in antidepressants AND antipsychotics?

I can't help but think that there's something odd going on here...

No one?

I got drowned in both.

That was over 10 years ago, but i get the impression they are prescribing them more widely for symptoms that don't really warrant their use. antipsychotics used to be reserved for schizophrenia and severe bipolar manic episodes. now they seem to be given out for everything.

Precisely. It's a bit startling, isn't it?

Its economics. Why limit themselves to 1% of the population when they can have 25% of it.

As disgusting as that sounds when considering the problems that these drugs can cause, you're probably right...

I've noticed. And I refuse to play along anymore. Every single time I agreed to go along with medications the side effects (which are really effects) meant that I ended up in the hospital in worse condition.

ladyswan wrote:I've noticed. And I refuse to play along anymore. Every single time I agreed to go along with medications the side effects (which are really effects) meant that I ended up in the hospital in worse condition.

I had to play along while I pursued a medical diagnosis and disability. I have abnormal serotonin levels and every antidepressant and antipsychotic has led to serotonin syndrome or neuroleptic malignant syndrome either of which makes me want to rip peoples heads off. No longer trying medication and they no long want to risk it.

I have noticed, for quite some time now. The hard part for me is this: I see very clearly how quick doctors are to prescribe these kinds of meds, for millions of reasons. And unfortunately, many people (my mother is a perfect example) don't take the time to do their own research on their condition and the meds they're supposed to take. They just bow down and do what they're told. But on the other hand, I have seen so many sides of this thing called psychology/psychiatry, and I do have a great deal of respect for the field and the good the treatments can bring about. Personally, I have found out the hard way that not only do I progressively get worse without meds, but with the getting worse also comes along not being able to adequately take care of myself or my children. So I take my meds. But I ask questions, I research, I track my symptoms/side effects, and if I'm not content with how things are, I demand changes be made until I get my way. The doctors are the professionals, but I know myself better than anyone, and I know whether or not I'm feeling the way I should be feeling.
I guess bottom line is, it's a toss-up for me. A very touchy situation, this medication thing.

it's kind of hard to do research on meds when you're psychotic or terrified or whatever...the internet is a scary place!