Depression is probably one of the most poorly understood phenomena in all of mental health. Many folks simply do not understand the inner workings of the brain. What causes depression? What helps depression? - these issues are very open to debate.
The linked article on anti-depressants (Anti-anti-anti-depressants) raises some serious questions about the role of anti-depressants in the treatment of depression. Should anti-depressants be used as commonly as they currently are? Are we helping or hindering clients by suggesting or prescribing the drugs?
While I want to make it clear that Take Charge is not campaigning against the use of anti-depressants, it seems evident that it is a good possibility that these drugs are over-prescribed in our society. At the very least, couldn't we all agree that it would be prudent to try other, less invasive forms of treatment before going directly to an anti-depressant for relief.
It is my position that the most powerful 'pharmacy' available is located right between our ears. I have talked to many, not just a few, many folks who have told me nearly identical stories about seeking help for depression and being placed directly on anti-depressants - without even a mention of using cognitive therapy either before, or at the very least in conjuction with, the drugs. At first, I couldn't imagine that clients were telling me the truth, but as I heard the story, over and over, it became clear to me that this was really happening.
If this is truly the case, then I believe something is wrong. It seems impossible, statistically speaking, for 'chemical imbalances' to exist at the rate in our society that coincides with the numbers of people who are taking anti-depressants. It seems far more likely that many folks who are taking them really don't have chemical malfunctions in the brain and would be far better served by cognitive therapy.
At Take Charge, our goal is to provide the least invasive forms of therapy first.
Check out this article and look for more to come regarding depression in the future.
