Kellevision

America's "Abuse Syndrome"

Are Americans suffering from "abuse syndrome"? 

The Relationship between Trauma, Depression and Anxiety

People often think of trauma, anxiety, panic attacks and depression as four separate "disorders".  Indeed the medical model of psychiatric treatment fosters this way of thinking, but it's not always accurate.  Many time these four separate "disorders" are all expressions of trauma.  Anxiety and depression can be intimately linked.  How?

Antidepressant Trials not Accurately Reported

The field of psychiatry claims to be scientific and evidence-based when it diagnosis and prescribes medications for mental "disorders".  They often cite research to back up their claims that disorders are "biochemical imbalances" or disturbances in the brain which require chemical intervention.  However, if the evidence which they are citing is tainted or biased then they are not practicing good science.   

Major Depression Overdiagnosed?

A recent article at Sciam.com discusses the possible overdiagnosis of Major Depression.  I agree with the authors that this diagnosis seems to be applied to normal reactions to typical life stressors; the loss of health, the loss of a job, the loss of a relationship. 

DSM V and the Diagnosing of Human Behavior

http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/display/article/10168/1425378?pageNumber=4

A recent story in U.S. News and World Report states, "The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, as it is known, is hugely influential because it determines what is and is not a mental disorder. In turn, it is responsible for much of the sales growth in prescription drugs."  In a recent article in Psychiatric Times Dr. Allen Frances discusses his concerns about the way the next version of the DSM is being formulated and the possibility that formerly normal human behaviors will be become "medicalized".   

Great Blog Find - Furious Seasons

Furious Seasons is a great blog about mental health issues, especially the effects of Big Pharma on psychiatric practices.  The author is a journalist who is not only fighting for his own mental health, but providing valuable information for others battling the same issues.  His coverage of the pharmaceutical companies and prescription medications is especially well-documented and worth your time. 

Enjoy.

Treat Your Own Depression - Naturally

When battling depression, many people go to their medical doctor and get a prescription for an antidepressant.  The recommended treatment for mild to moderate depression is psychotherapy and, if needed, a prescription for an antidepressant.   Medication seems to be the first line of defense.  Psychotherapy is rarely mentioned.  In addition, there are many things clients can do for themselves to reduce depression symptoms, yet this information is rarely presented either.  You can try these techniques instead of medication if you are mildly or moderately depressed.  You can use them in addition to medication if more severely depressed.  What are some of these things you can do for yourself?

A Case Comparison of Antidepressant Administration to Two Grieving Clients

A few years ago I was simultaneously working with two middle aged men whose wives had left them.  Both of them were completely devastated by the loss of their marriage and family.  Both of them showed serious signs of grieving.  Both of them went to their doctors, were diagnosed with "depression" and placed on medication.  It was interesting to see side by side two different ways this could play out.  For one client this was a major factor in his process of healing while for the other it significally complicated the grieving process.  What was the difference?

How SSRIs Work in the Brain

Indian Cowboy has a brilliant explanation, complete with diagram, of how SSRIs work in the brain on his blog.  The comparisons he makes to "illicit" drugs and their interactions on the brain compared to the effects of SSRIs on the brain are especially interesting.  Enjoy.

FDA to Investigate Cymbalta and Seroquel

The FDA has put Cymbalta and Seroquel on its list of drugs to be investigated.  You can see the official list at the FDA's site.