Have a look at this giant change in the number of people in America now on antidepressants:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-08-03-antidepressants_N.htm
It has now doubled in the past ten years. Some might argue that drug advertising has led to more informed consumers, and therefore more seeking help. One could also note that half of those uses are for diagnoses and problems other than depression (such as pain conditions.)
What's potentially alarming is the significant drop in those using psychotherapy during the same time period.
Where this is a problem rests in the Bio-Psycho-Social model of care used by therapists, nurses and doctors. It views overall healing and mental health as having a biological/genetic component (and cure in medication), but does not ignore the psychology component (over which we have free will to develop ourselves, with the aid of a therapist), and the social component (the importance of friends, family, supporters, work, culture and environment in our overall mental state, moods, and quality of life.)
Treating more of the "Bio" and less of the "Psychosocial" might be troubling as far as overall effectiveness at treating depression.
Does this study mean there is more awareness going on? More healing? More depression? Or is it simply more profit due to more advertising?
What do you think?
