Kellevision

An Open Letter to the DSM-5

Mental health professionals from around the world are signing a petition contesting the proposed changes to the DSM-5, as the medical model of mental illness continues to have its validity challenged.

Generation RX - The Effects of Capitalism on the Practice of Medicine

"To call normal children diseased, abnormal, chemically imbalanced.  To make patients out of them for profit.  This is not only anti-scientific, it is contrary to our Hippocratic oath.  It is immoral, and it should be exposed and stopped."

Dr. Fred A. Baughman, MD
Neurologist and Author
As quoted from the movie, "Generation RX"

Mental Health During the Holidays

Last year I posted several articles about maintaining your mental health during the holiday season.  I'm sure I'll be posting new ones this year, but it doesn't hurt to recap past posts.  I doubt the stressors of the holidays have changed in one year...

"I Don't Care" - The Fallacies of Poor Management

In working with clients struggling with depression I often find that the work environment provides a lot of distress and discontent.  I've not been exempt from these influences myself and always find the strategies of management to be somewhat curious.

The University of Texas Shooting

It was a sad day here in Austin as we watched yet another student of the University of Texas shoot himself to death.  We are reminded of Charles Whitman who did the same thing in 1966. 

Forest Pharmaceuticals Pleads Guilty to Illegal Promotion of Celexa, False Claims about Lexapro and Celexa

The Department of Justice has issued a press release regarding criminal charges against the pharmaceutical company responsible for the manufacture of Lexapro and Celexa.

Alcoholics vs. Teetotalers: Who Lives Longer?

Alcoholics.  A recent article in Time reports that heavy drinkers live longer than nondrinkers.  Moderate drinkers faired the best.  But the finding that heavy drinkers came in second - above teetotalers - stunned many. 

The Fallacies of Suicide Prevention

Through the years I have attended numerous Suicide Prevention training programs.  They always raise a great deal of concern and many questions for me.  My colleagues and I often discuss this, but rarely do so in public.  Perhaps the conversation should be brought to the fore.

Psychiatric Medications as a "Crutch"

Throughout the years I have worked with several clients who were criticized or rebuked by family members or Alcoholics Anonymous sponsors for using psychiatric medications as a "crutch".  Yes.... and?

Alcoholics Anonymous and Psychiatric Medications

Throughout the years I've agonized when working with dual diagnosis clients who attend Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or any of their sister programs.  Too often there are well-meaning people in the groups who take it upon themselves to give psychological or medical advice.  All too often, this results in tremendous damage.   One of the major offenders is the idea that any member of AA, CA or NA who is taking psychiatric medications is not "clean and sober".  Not only is this bad advice it's not the official policy of AA.