Q & A

QUESTIONS OF THE MONTH

 
Q: What can I read to get scientifically sound evidence for the anti-medication arguments on this Web Site?

A: For a start I suggest any of the starred books in our Readings link.

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Q: I've gone through hell in psychiatric hospitals, up and down on all kinds of psychotropics and finally want to come off them. I don't trust psychiatrists or psychologists; they all believe in medication around where I live. I'm 33 years old and live near Atlanta.

I've had a different diagnosis each of the two times I've been hospitalized. First they said I was bipolar, now they said I'm schizophrenic. I heard it's OK to go off 10% a day. I'm on medication now and want to cut it out but will not see a psychiatrist again.  I'm lucky since my internist was a psychiatrist 20 years ago. He told me I don't need hospitalization, but I was too frightened and did not listen to him. Now he says I shouldn't go off the drug that fast. Is he right?

A: If you read the book called "Your Drug May Be Your Problem" by Peter Breggin, M.D. and David Cohen, Ph.D., you'll probably conclude that your doctor is right and that you are partially right. In it they state that the 10% method "should be adapted to individual situations and changing circumstances." They note that if you and your doctor decide together to use the 10% method of withdrawing, "Seven to ten days is a reasonable length for each step if the duration of drug use has not exceeded one year." I strongly suggest that you read this book so you can discuss any questions you have with your doctor in a thoughtful and thorough way, before deciding what to do. And if you are still not sure what to do, get a second professional opinion. Best wishes.