WebMD with AOL Health - Paxil Suicide Risk in Young Adults
I keep reading this stuff and I am now inclined to add my perspective on this form of reporting that scratches the surface of a VERY complicated disease, depression.
Here's the scoop as I see it:
1. People who are SEVERELY depressed usually do not have the energy to attempt suicide.
That's right. The depression is so bad that people who are in the deepest throes of depression usually can not organize themselves and expend the effort it would take to commit suicide.
When the Paxil (or any antidepressant) starts to take effect... there is a chance of entering a "danger zone" with a patient who has suicidal ideation. They now have energy to make an attempt... they are not far enough along in the healing process to feel any optimism that life can get better.
2. Paxil (and other antidepressants) take an average of 6 to 8 weeks to "kick in". That means one or two pills is not going to make the world seem better. Dosages need to be altered as the physician and mental health team find the "right fit" for each individual.
3. The depression may stem from problems already present in a person's life and/or the depression has created new challenges that will have to be amended throughout the healing process. You can not take medication only and expect results.
Cognitive/behavorial treatment with a LICENSED counselor in the mental health field is required. Research shows that people who participate in antidepressants with counseling make the best improvement gains long-term.
4. Older patients who are using Paxil have not been showing the risk status of patients ages 18 to 30. Here is my theory on this situation.
An older patient has more life experience to draw upon. They very may well have the ability to perceive that their situation will not always be as bad as it is during the recent bout of depression. They may have experienced times that were decreased in depression or even depression-free... so they have that strength to draw upon.
When reporters state that a medication causes people to be suicidal, I find that to be highly irresponsible reporting. There is a risk. Heck, there is a risk if the person DOESN'T take Paxil.
And just like any other medication, there will be a very small percentage of people who are going to have an adverse reaction.
But, speaking as a retired clinician, I will tell you that reporting without stating the WHOLE picture can cause added challenges for patients who are already reluctant to use medications for treatment.
The brain is an organ of the body, just like your lungs or heart. The brain happens to effect the very core of your person, who you are. So people can feel really uncomfortable about using psychotropics to regain balance between the mind, body, and spirit.
When you read news articles with "buzz" headlines... stay alert. Talk to your counselors and/or physicians before you decide to change your medication regimen. If you have been told to use antidepressants (or any psychotropics) for your treatment... express your concerns and fears. You have a right to be 100% informed in regards to making a decision.
If your professional is dismissive of your concerns... find someone else who is a good listener.
The above entry is an OPINION piece and not to be used in any way as a replacement for medical advice.
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