SCoates wrote:Anxiety and depression can act like acid on the brain. While removing the acid is a great start, the brain cannot always restructure itself. That is specifically what appropriate medications are designed to do. They aren't "happy drugs," they slowly rebuild what was physically broken down.
No, of course they are not "happy drugs". And I am not, of course, opposed to their proper use. I wonder if national differences are coming into this discussion, Scoates? Here - (and even more in the USA) anti-depressants are prescribed like lollies. Even on groups - like adolescents and children - where there is good evidence that they do little good, and increasing evidence that some do real harm.
In either country, believe me, there is little chance that someone will be unmedicated! Though, to be fair, here at least, family doctors may well prescribe sub-therapeutic dosages of anti-depressants to folk for years.
However, there is increasing evidence that psycho-therapy IS effective (as is exercise) in changing the brain chemistry. Some studies suggest for many it is AS effective. As, of course, are placebos.... Many anti-depressants are, I understand, only a little more effective than placebos.
In this, I have not looked at the data myself, to be true - I rely on my psychiatrist colleagues, who do keep up - pressed as they are to prescribe by many clients.
Anyhoo - I do not want to get intoa pills/no pills debate. I do not have an either/or attitude.
I simply believe a good assessment needs to be done - by someone who is conversant in ALL the options.