After 65 years of Neuroleptics (and “Longterm Schizophrenia”) researchers like Professor Robin Murray are now “promoting an idea” that it’s possible to carefully withdraw from Neuroleptics and improve as a result.
Professor Robin Murray also “promotes an idea” that when a person comes off drugs quickly and goes mad – it’s the original presence of the drugs, that is more than likely causing the madness.
Even though It took me 6 years to go from 25mg of Modecate per month to 25mg of Mellaril per day. Anxiety was still a big thing with me. But thankfully I was able to find ways of dealing with it.
Twelve step fellowship supports an idea of “acceptance being the key” – “acceptance in terms of Equanamity” for me is definitely the key.
I was at a 12 step meeting last night and some people present related their experience of being raised on disadvantaged London council estates. They said their neighbour’s might be Drug Dealers or Bank Robbers – but the “Nutters” were the ones everyone was really frightened of.
But since most “Nutters” come off their drugs abruptly without the advice they should be given, then they cannot be held responsible for going mad. I went mad several times when I attempted to stop taking drugs abruptly, with medical support. I had to completely abandon the medical approach to recover.
Trick or Treat
“…A coalition of health bodies wrote to the Government urging it to update legislation to ensure medical workers do not feel ‘vulnerable to the risk of prosecution for unlawful killing’ when treating coronavirus patients ‘in circumstances beyond their control…”. Todays Daily Mail
I talked to you this morning about my concerns regarding the possibility that I had been exposed to asbestos while working on ceilings before and after Christmas at XXX.
This morning at your office you provided me with a large folder from which I had difficulty finding information. I was then provided with an emailed Asbestos Survey which you suggested might be more helpful.
I’ve since looked through the (emailed) Asbestos Survey and I don’t see any relevant samples taken from ceilings in rooms XX (XXX Room) and XX (XXX Room) (as you call them). But I do see photos towards the end of the Survey of ceilings with textured covering all identified as containing Asbestos.
I’m still concerned, as this Survey does not reassure me.
Please return to me on this.
Yours Sincerely
ME
Sent: 12 January 2021 08:22
REPLY FROM SITE MANAGER
Subject: RE: Possibility of Exposure to Asbestos
The survey is carried out by professional company, and they only take sample of material they suspect to contain ACM. So the 2 rooms in question did not have any material which required testing, so would not be logged to have samples taken and analysed.
KIND REGARDS, SITE MANAGER
12 Jan at 09:37
EMAIL TO ME FROM PROJECT MANAGER
Subject: RE: Possibility of Exposure to Asbestos
We also had the XXX surveyor on site yesterday as he is preparing the final report of the removal of all asbestos for information for the O&M manual for the XXX.
I showed him the two rooms and the ‘suspect’ materials you showed in your photos. He had no concerns that these were ACMs. He is a very experienced surveyor, and he carried out the initial survey – they only test or sample substances they deem necessary. The R&D survey was full and complete and all asbestos containing materials present were removed apart from in some underground duct areas, the basement and the 12 main xxxxrooms which have been encapsulated by over-boarding.
You really have no need to be concerned.
REGARDS, PROJECT MANAGER
SURVEY DISCLAIMER
XXX completed this survey on the basis of a specified program of work and terms and conditions agreed with the Client. All reasonable skill and care, bearing in mind the project objectives and the agreed scope of work, have been exercised during the preparation of this survey report.
Following the issue of this survey report, responsibility to any parties for any matters arising, which may be considered outside of the agreed scope of work, will not be accepted by XXX.
This survey report is confidential. XXX will accept liability to no parties with the exception of the Client. Without the written agreement of XXX, no one with the exception of the Client, may rely upon or have the benefit of this survey report.
XXX asserts and retains all copyright, and other intellectual property rights, in and over the survey report and its contents unless these rights were specifically assigned or transferred within the terms of the agreement.
Any questions or matters arising from this survey report should be addressed to XXX.
Thank you Dr Timimi
“…Anything that offers success in our unjust society without trying to change it is not revolutionary..”
“Mindfulness”
Most people I know are at the same economic or social level as I am, some of them work for a living and some of them don’t. If I can be at peace with my “internal situations” I can be happy and focus on my external situations.
Some people might be externally harassed all the time and anyone could end up like this; but a lot of other people aren’t, and can improve the quality of their lives from inside themselves.
The most successful psychotherapy I know of, comes from the completely free 12 Step Movement; which has a lot of internal change attached to it.
I think, this late but eventual acknowledgement from ‘Horowitz, Murray, and Taylor’ is also extremely important
That it is possible to come off “antipsychotics” (and make recovery as a result) – but that coming off them abruptly can drive a person MAD.
It’s difficult to rely on people if everything is subterfuge! But it’s always been like this!
MISSD
Dr Wayne W Dyer said ‘Alcoholics Anonymous is where Jesus walks on Earth’. In my opinion Akathisia is where Hell exists on Earth.
The experience of Akathisia cannot be described.
‘Depression Delusion’ by Dr Terry Lynch was one of the best books I ever read. It was available on Amazon at a very reasonable price, and was ‘electric’ all the way through.
IMO the 1 percent of people at the top need good looking servants to look after them and other professionals to do their bidding and thats about it!
85 percent of the work people do, could be reorganised and automated – this work is preserved to keep people occupied.
It sounds like they want to have their cake and eat it!
Thank you for writing this credible account about your experience. I’m very sorry for your suffering, it was dreadful.
I used to think “Psychiatrists” were doctors that could be trusted.
I notice when children are out and about with their parents they often appear happy and good natured, but when they’re mixing with other children in a school setting they often appear small and weak.
Even in the aftermath of the “Haiti disaster” (years ago) the ‘poor’ Haiti child on television looked healthier (to me) than the average ‘European’ school child.
The basic needs in education are the 3 rs: Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. After this anything else that’s needed can be self acquired.
Dr Timimi, this chapter is brilliant and very true.
I don’t personally believe that most people become rich through hard work, I believe that most people become rich through being connected.
When I was at school in the1970s in Ireland the French teacher (in her twenties) encouraged a very boisterous class. There was one particular boy who was extremely boisterous and I wouldn’t repeat (even now) some of the jokes he made in the class (and got away with).
I bumped into him again years ago, in a bar in Ireland. He was drinking beer and he was a lot bigger. He was very friendly and he told me he was living in New York and working in the Bronx as a teacher.
People also seem to be able to come off drugs like cannabis without too much difficulty. But attempting to come off psychiatric drugs can lead to all types of disasters.
If you look at all the people that Genuinely Recover from “terrible Psychiatric Illnesses” on this website – they all
Recover through abandoning Psychiatry.
“Schizophrenia”
Major Tranquillisers are very disabling. How does a person come off them?
Through very careful drug taper and the application of effective psychological techniques to deal with the High Anxiety the process causes.
Where can effective anti anxiety techniques be found?
From Books. From the Internet.
From Buddhist Temples
From Personal Stories
From personal observation.
From Self Help Groups.
From Psychologists
What works for Normal Anxiety – works for Extreme Anxiety.
Straightforward Psychotherapy:-
Most people can identify with “Emotional Reasoning” or “Catastrophisation” – getting stuck on a problem inside in the head, and not being able to work it out, or to put it down.
On withdrawal from strong psychiatric drugs “Emotional Reasoning” can take over.
Straightforward Psychotherapy would be about learning how to put a problem down, until the head levels off, and the problem becomes manageable.
What More Do You Want:-
“Schizophrenia” (which I don’t believe in) is the Big Psychiatric Diagnosis.
I was treated in the Famous Maudsley Hospital 1980, Kings College, London and the Ground Breaking Research NUIG (Regional)
Hospital Ireland 1980/1.
I recovered as a result of responsibly stopping treatment and straightforward Psychotherapy (and have remained well for the past 36 years).
Heavy alcohol use and heavy cocaine use can be linked to “funny thinking” as well as can too much McDonalds.
Heavy Cannabis use might be linked to Cannabis “funny thinking”. But this is NOT “Schizophrenia” its Cannabis “funny thinking”.
The vast majority of “doctors” in “Mental Health” (from what I can see) are doing more harm than good (through ignorance); with most “doctors” in other medicines supporting them.
Major Tranquillisers AKA “Antipsychotics” don’t show any efficacy either. “Antipsychotics” disable people and disable everything else belonging to them.
“…The origins of the dominant mental health care paradigm of the antidepressant era were identified in multiple forms: fraudulent promotion, biased education by drug companies, captured regulators, institutional ideologies, ghost-written clinical practice guidelines, poor quality product information and drug approval procedures that ensured neither safety nor efficacy….”
A Semantic Quibble? He’s telling lies!
I would imagine, what you have in Toronto is a large anonymous city and “patients in the community” with diagnoses like “Schizophrenia”.
I don’t think Ireland has any law forcing people to take medication outside of hospital; and I’ve often remarked on how in the 1980s it was very uncommon for anyone in crisis to meet police. But at that time everyone (to a certain extent) knew everyone and staff were very diplomatic.
All my hospitalizations bar the first at Ireland, were voluntary – and I made recovery as a result of carefully reducing medication and eventually stopping.
But I also noticed the very high dependency in Ireland (among young men) – on long term injections that eventually turn everyone who takes them into psychiatric patients.
I’m 60 now and most of the “young male patients” I knew in the 1980s have been dead for a long time.
Actually, a lot of the work can now be done by IT and robots. The only reason we need to work is to keep us busy!
“Medication” didn’t work for me.
I remember being amazed when this famous “Psychiatrist”
Brendan Kelly & Muiris Houston
“Psychiatrist in the Chair The Official Biography of Anthony Clare”
4.0 out of 5 stars (13)
…its claimed Dr Anthony Clare (towards the end) had suffered from “Depression”. I wonder if “medications” might have caused his heart attack at 64 years of age.
(As I got older myself I had to stop taking even minuscule “medication”, because of the heart rhythm problems the “medication” was causing).
The “Antipsychotics” have nearly killed me a few times.
I’d imagine in the UK that the emergency services cannot deal with the amount of people in distress begging for help; and I wonder why, at the same time, doctors put so much emphasis on minor indisgressions of “well” people. It’s a conundrum.
11.35 minutes into this clip a man speaks in a straightforward tone of his daughter being safe, but his son being still trapped in the rubble (while bodies are being removed).
Politicians today, talking about other peoples tragedies often wipe a tear from their eyes.
I agree completely.
Thank You Dana for your Informative Article, I’m very interested in the airing of this subject.
James, Is the Council of Evidence based Psychiatry limited to ‘Professionals’?
Dr Timimi (correction of Above)
Tranquillisers will always fail over time:-
“…Seeman, in his studies of drug-induced dopamine supersensitivity, concluded in 2007 that this was why antipsychotics fail over time….”
I know a chap in London who gets a decent rate for being “mentally ill”, he’s prescribed medication which he can take or not take – and the doctor is happy as well!
James,
As someone thats successfully withdrawn from Neuroleptic Depot Injections and made Longterm Recovery as a result (and can substantiate this), can I become active in the Council and attend your Meetings?
For me Recovery from “Schizophrenia” involved coming off the strong psychiatric drugs very carefully; and learning how to deal with the “High Anxiety”, the exposure to these drugs had caused!
That’s my experience!
When I came back to London in 1986 the ‘Irish Social Worker’ I had seen in 1980 asked me if I still took drugs, and I told him I did take a little prescribed medication; he shook his head and said “no, I mean street drugs”.
He was 100% convinced I had been under the influence of illicit substance when I visited him in 1980. “Schizophrenia” had not at all been on his Radar.
We all know that attacking “witches” in the “middle ages” was ignorant and wrong, but it seems the same thing is going on today and “everyone” accepts it, and its “legally” promoted.
(In the Middle Ages the Witchfinders even had a Special Book they could refer to to prove that the person really was a Witch).
If there’s ‘no such thing’ as Autism then where do the Doctors promoting Autism go? They have no ‘skills’ in any other area.
I wouldn’t (myself) argue with the term Dual Diagnosis, but I would argue with Psychologists mixing themselves up with peer groups.
The Hearing Voices “peer” groups in London are all run by “officials” and are mostly only open during normal working hours. In whose benefit is this?
SpellBinding
One thing that people that take “medication” often recognize is – that when they try to stop taking the “medication” they immediately run into trouble. But this phenomenon can now be scientifically explained :-
The only requirement for membership to the AA (as far as I know) – is a desire to stop drinking.
Thank you Dr Timimi,
What I noticed in the Maudsley Hospital in London in 1980 was that it was full of young people who looked like they had nothing wrong with them, describing themselves as “Schizophrenic” and “Manic Depressive”.
I could do without medication in 1980. But when I tried to come off medication in 1983, I found myself running into serious trouble:-
Up to $7,000 per month equalling (up to) $84,000 per year – Who Pays??
I thought it was common knowledge that ‘antipsychotics’ often ‘masked’ the symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia until the drug was withdrawn. Do the new “TD drugs” operate in the same way?
I notice a lot of focus on loneliness these days and it’s a bit like when famous people claim to be BiPolar. The famous people are lovable for having it but an ordinary person might be inferior.
“…While social isolation is a physical and social reality, it does not necessitate that the experience of loneliness ensues….” This is true.
“…The state of agitation that sudden or too-fast withdrawal of the stimulant can induce will look like the “ADHD” coming back with a vengeance, convincing all, including the doctors—few of whom seem to understand the above process—that the child really does need the amphetamine for more “normal” functioning…”
“…Neurobiology
The researchers explain that “relapse” of psychotic experiences after discontinuing antipsychotics, especially very soon after stopping the drug, is likely due to withdrawal effects. One strong piece of evidence for this is that people who don’t have psychotic experiences but who are given antipsychotics for other, unrelated conditions (like nausea or lactation problems) sometimes end up experiencing psychosis after stopping the drugs…”
Is it possible that ‘legitimate’ medical practice has been the problem here.
Thank you Dr Tamimi,
You explain things very well.
Thank you for this Article,
“…Throughout these writings, she has challenged many assertions of mainstream psychiatry, often to the annoyance of leading figures in the field…”
I can identify!
Thanks,
This is very good information!
It would mean that Black People were NOT 10 times more likely to be diagnosed “Schizophrenic” as white people.
“….In 2006, ÆSOP reported a ninefold increase in the risk of developing schizophrenia in black Caribbeans when compared with the white British population:….”
But “Mental Health Care” (IMO) is a load of Bo**ocks, anyway!
“…..indeed probably most of modern medicine is manufactured and shaped and spun by experts….”
If you factor for, infant mortality infectious disease, and accidents you would probably find life expectancy to be better among basic people, 100 years ago, than it is now.
Brilliant Altostrata,
Using the Internet to provide what people need!
Thank you Dr Emaline, I hope I’m not too far off topic.
When I came off Drugs “suitable for Schizophrenia” I still had to learn how to cope with the Disabling Anxiety the exposure to the drugs had caused*.
I learned to cope with the Disabling Anxiety in the same way as someone might learn to cope with Normal Anxiety. So I think “Schizophrenia” might be considered a condition of “Disabling Anxiety” – that easily falls within the scope of human assistance.
..advises “Schizophrenics” in distress – his advice is often very simple and straightforward (but maybe not obvious to the distressed person at the time).
When medical doctor and Psychotherapist, Dr Terry Lynch brings a terminal “Schizophrenic” “back to life”, he cheerfully helps the person to gradually build themselves up with tasks, to demonstrate their real ability to them.
*I initially refused strong Psychiatric Drugs (and remained non functional for the years I consumed them, costing the Irish taxpayer a Lot of Money).
“…Walden who lost a son to opioids . . “. They killed lots and lots of people; but if they go to prison – who else might eventually go to prison?
Medically Psychopathic Behaviour
“….An inquest in 2018 ruled that the use of olanzapine was appropriate …”
What the Inquest says is “..if necessary a doctor can kill a patient in MH..”
This is a case that Doctors have been ‘found out’ in, but the reality could be – that they regularly Kill within ‘Mental Health’, and consider it to be their right to do so.
I have presented my own experience previously on Mad In America.
The ‘Elephant in the Living Room’ here, has got to be that most “Schizophrenics” that “Act Out” in the Community have recently come off “medication” (and are not suffering from “Insanity” but from “Drug Induced Withdrawal Syndrome” i.e. They Are Innocent).
There are no vitamins in the supermarket!
Thanks Karen,
The whole thing about this “form of medicine”, is to gain “co operation” from the patient.
Schizophrenia is treatable isnt it? So if the person gets treatment they get on with their lives don’t they?
Thank You Dr Timimi,
I’ll need to read this article carefully.
Macdonaldisation:- about 2 million people are in jail in America, 1% percent of people in America are estimated ‘Schizophrenic’ , 1% estimated Autistic, up to 10% with ADHD, several per cent estimated Bipolar, and several per cent Depressed and Anxious. So theres lots of ‘unreliable’ people in the Country.
Once a person processed as a Psychiatric Patient tries to come off their “antipsychotics” they will more than likely go MAD.
When a “Schizophrenic” stops taking his “medication” he generally “relapses” – as does a person misdiagnosed with “Schizophrenia” (and put on “medication”).
“…Neurobiology
The researchers explain that “relapse” of psychotic experiences after discontinuing antipsychotics, especially very soon after stopping the drug, is likely due to withdrawal effects. One strong piece of evidence for this is that people who don’t have psychotic experiences but who are given antipsychotics for other, unrelated conditions (like nausea or lactation problems) sometimes end up experiencing psychosis after stopping the drugs…”
Apologies if I’m slightly off topic above.
I never really got to sample the “new wonder drugs” because by the time these drugs came to the market I had cut mysdlf down to miniscule non intrusive doses of the really old drugs, and that was good enough for me.
Then the old drugs were removed and I did try miniscule doses of the new drugs.
Ultimately my GPs tried to make out I must be severely unwell mentally because I was prepared to consume very small doses of these new drugs, so I stopped taking the new drugs, but when I did I also discovered that they had no psychiatric effect whatsoever, at the level I had consumed them.
I wondered why my UK GP s were so keen to attempt to discredit me – but as it happens I can see issues in my history that would provide reasons for their behaviour.
Thank you Alex,
CTO’S
A recent Article in Jama Psychiatry from Mark Howoritz, (Sir) Robin Murray, and David Taylor, Scientifically contradicts in my opinion – the use of CTOs.
VERY SLOW AS OPPOSED TO ABRUPT TAPER
The article recommends a Slow Neuroleptic Tapering approach. And “Neuroleptic Withdrawal Induced Psychosis” is acknowledged as a problem / as opposed to “Abrupt Medication Discontinuation Relapse”.
CTO ABRUPT NEUROLEPTIC TAPER
Since most attempted Neuroleptic Withdrawals fall into an Abrupt Category, then these failed Withdrawals do not indicate “Relapse or Return of Illness” but “Problems with Drug Withdrawal”.
“…As there is some evidence that not all patients need lifelong antipsychotic treatment and some may have improved social functioning when taking less or no antipsychotic, cautious deprescribing should be a component of high-quality prescribing practice….”
ABRUPT TAPER VERSUS VERY SLOW TAPER
My own MH Records reflect:- 4 Hospitalizations a Suicide Attempt and “A Near Miss” in 5 Months, following the Permission to withdraw Abruptly from a Fluphenazine Depot Injection ; and 36 Years of Continual Wellness following my own decision to Taper Very Carefully.
ALSO NEEDED…
In my own case a Very Careful Neuroleptic Taper wasn’t enough, I still need to gain an understanding of how my “Neuroleptic Withdrawal High Anxiety” “Worked” and “What I could do about it”.
The Heading says it!
(I consider “mental health” to be a law into itself -)…
Steve, I notice that I have more or less disappeared from the Discussion section. Is there any reason for this?
Everything useful presented in this Research, by the World Experts on the Subject, has already been presented on Mad in America (by the “independently recovered”) – but the professional acknowledgement (IMO) is also very worthwhile.
(I consider “Mental Health” to be a law unto itself .
When I complained at a GP Surgery some years ago about genuine misuse of information:- a “doctor” by way of comment recorded to my notes: “…mildly agitated but no sign of thought disorder..”. Which would be like me saying: “..I have full confidence that Dr xxx has not engaged in shoplifting in the past six months..” )
Hi Ted, Scary Stuff.
Singer Bob Geldoff confided that after his wife’s tragic death some years ago he seriously considered suicide as an option – but he wasn’t incarcerated for this.
UK Comedian Russell Brand supposedly has a diagnosis of “Bipolar” and Singer Elton John’s behaviour was supposedly erratic at one time – but neither of these stars were conferred with a (UK type) “Conservativeship”.
Sponging off the Welfare State
Since the Psychiatric system has little success anyway, I believe the genuine “Experts” are the people that reject the Psychiatric system.
I was diagnosed as a relapsing “Schizophrenic” in Western Ireland, until I made Recovery 30 plus years ago as a result of stopping Psychiatric treatment.
At this time 30 plus years ago: My Psychiatrist (a University Researcher) was on the examining board of the Royal College of Psychiatrists; and the Professor of Pharmacology (at the local University), was President of the British Association of Psychopharmacologists.
Psychiatry today is still useless
Another 1st Class exposure, Lawrence.
It’s even possible to develop withdrawal syndrome while consuming drugs like Xanax.
I’d imagine most normal people experience positive and negative social thoughts inside their heads, as people are social beings and life is socially competitive.
In my experience very few qualified doctors are capable of distinguishing between a social thought inside a person’s head and the hearing of Voices outside a person’s head.
…It is possible for people diagnosed with “Schizophrenia” to survive successfully without “medication” but it would be recommended they withdraw very carefully from neuroleptics, as these drugs can cause weaknesses in the brains systems.
As far as I know the authors don’t recommend any methods for dealing with the “Neuroleptic Exposure High Anxiety”
– this is what’s missing from the paper.
The solutions can be found in Straightforward Psychology.
Sam,
Its amazing how successful the ‘information block’ (in these times) can be. People that ‘rock the boat’ can find themselves permanently unemployable.
“Peer” has got to be mutual support from others with similar experience. The Hearing Voices Network in London is only open during normal working hours, and I believe mostly supervised by non voice hearers. Can this be “peer” support?
Steve
Your account reminds me of my “Rehabilitation” many years ago, when a nurse explained to me that the way to get into work, was to start with half days and extend to full days.
I remember visiting a friend of mind (a shrewd psychiatric survivor) at the time, who advised me to go back to my Specialist and get my restlesness sorted out.
Once the restlessness was sorted out, I didn’t need rehabilitation .
Akithisia is “Stereotypical” – All Psychiatric staff should be able to identify it; and should be prepared to approach doctors neglecting their professional duties.
The main expressed problem my Consultant Psychiatrist had with me (many years ago) was my “inability to maintain routine” – but it was him that was sponging off the Welfare State – NOT me.
Thank you Sam.
Thank you Chris,
Akathisia Killing Fields
I attended a ‘Mental Health Legal Function’ in Central London several years ago where a prominent Mental Health Lawyer/Tribunal Representative provided an informative speech to newly qualified Mental Health Lawyers.
When I brought up the subject of Non Acknowledgement of Akathisia in Involuntary Mental Health Treatment with the speaker – his Answer was automatic and ‘off the cuff’ – he said that if Akathisia were acknowledged, then Doctors would NOT be able to prescribe the ‘medications’, (he then blushed very strongly).
The average family doctor prescriber is not even aware!
What I mean is: People with Lived Experience of Voices are the suitable Guides in the area of Voices.
Hi Sherry
Thank you for writing this, it is very helpful.
You’re ‘mental health drug withdrawal’ experience sounds as bad as a ‘dreadful illness’. I have my own personal experience of similar.
It’s possible to carefully stop taking drugs ‘suitable for Schizophrenia’; to experience Extreme Anxiety as a result; and to overcome this Extreme Anxiety (through normal Psychological Means).
Thanks Dmitriy,
People with personal experience are the experts not the Psychological or Psychiatric Systems.
“Drug Withdrawal Rebound Relapse Effect” explains the Creation of Schizophrenia.
If most people “relapse” fairly quickly when they come off “medication” – then most people don’t genuinely “relapse”.
This acknowledgement by the “experts” is better late than never.
It took me 6 years 1984 – 1990 to come down from a 25 mg monthly injection of modecate (“suitable for schizophrenia”) to 25mg of oral mellaril per day (suitable for hiccoughs). But my Drug induced disability ended in 1984.
Are the people wishing not to take ‘medication’ ‘psychotic’, or do they just have problems. If they were ‘psychotic’ surely they wouldn’t be able to communicate.
‘Psychotic’ is probably one of the worst things that can be said about a person!
Thanks Jocelyn,
I believe there’s a basic rule in terms of consuming substance; that any substance that makes a person feel better in the Short Term, will eventually make them feel worse in the Long Term.
I “relapsed” several times when I attempted to come off “Neuroleptic Medication” (abruptly) – but I didn’t relapse when I tapered carefully (and learned to cope with Neuroleptic Withdrawal “High Anxiety”):-
“….The researchers explain that “relapse” of psychotic experiences after discontinuing antipsychotics, especially very soon after stopping the drug, is likely due to withdrawal effects….”
I considered myself to be “in the clear” once I was no longer taking disabling doses of medication, because I could get on with my life.
To kill them, maybe.
I believe it’s fairly difficult for a person to pass themselves off as disabled in the UK, other than in the area of Mental Health. I wonder why this is?
Hi Karin, excellent article.
If a person can sit with suffering (even as an experiment) for a period of time, it can be amazing how the suffering can transform into something else.
Most acts of “Mental Health Suicide/Violence/Homicide” in my opinion are caused by Psychiatric Treatments, and society would be far safer without involuntary treatment. I can produce a lot of reliable evidence from my Medical Records to support this opinion.
“Anosgonosia” could probably be applied to anyone.
There’s been so many deaths on Fluphenazine that retrospectively could be traced to Akathisia and the Drug, that Doctors and Governments are hiding the information and getting away with it.
There’s also an unbelievable Withdrawal Syndrome attached to Fluphenazine WHICH can be overcome with help and patience i.e the “Schizophrenic” can walk again.
“….In 1998, Donald Schell, who had been taking Paxil (an SSRI) for two days, shot and killed his wife, Rita, his daughter, Deborah, and his nine-month-old granddaughter, Alyssa, and then killed himself. In 2001, a Wyoming jury in Tobin vs. SmithKline Beecham found:
“…SmithKline 80% liable for Schell’s actions…holding that ‘Paxil can cause some individuals to commit homicide and/or suicide.’” (here)…”
“…Psychiatrists are defined by their ability to dispense pills ostensibly designed to treat diseases of the mind. ..”
We all know people that have recovered. Did they Recover through taking pills, or not taking Pills?
As well as not taking Pills they would have utilised some type of “saving practise” – would this have been Psychotherapy or Something Else? I think Something Else.
Most recovered people probably found their own way.
*It’s important to only come off ‘medication’ VERY carefully.
Because if you talk about it “they’ll” come and get you.
Thank You Philip,
Fluphenazine began to (discretely) go out of business in 2016. I would say that this drug was responsible for its own Holocaust. I would even say that Fluphenazine probably killed more “diagnosed people” than “the Nazis” did.
Many Thanks Wendy,
It’s good that you survived to tell your story and help other people in the same predicament.
I’m going to study your website.
Hi, interestingly enough I was attempting to look through the life expectancy rates of different UK ethnic groups (in the past few days). I was able to find information on several groups but strangely could not find any reliable information on the Life Expectancy Of UK Afro Caribeannn People.
Chinese men in the UK had the highest disability free life expectancy and Asian women in certain groups had much lower disability free rates even though their life expectancy was the same as average.
But Irish Travellers and Romany People (the traditionally discriminated against), had a VERY low life expectancy of 50 years – for men. This could point to the fact that discriminated people die a lot sooner even, than might be expected.
I hope I’m not too far “off theme” in my comment here.
The Psychiatric Antidepressant approach is a form of Insanity.
I find topical psychiatric SEXUAL discussion a bit amusing as for the time I consumed any level of “therepeutic psychiatric chemotherapy” I was incapable of any type of sexual performance. At this time Sexual fulfillment was also probably the least of my problems.
Good Advice tapernurse and kindredspirit.
“…“While tapering can be uneventful, no doctor can guarantee a safe and successful withdrawal at this time.” Which is good reason the doctors should stop prescribing the SSRIs and SNRIs in the first place…”
Exactly! There’s no point on going on drugs that cause more serious “problems”, than a person has.
The average UK doctor (as far as I know) is not even realistically informed on what AKATHISIA is – and if they were realistically informed, (IMO) they would not prescribe ‘antidepressants’.
Anti depressants can cause suicide and Homicide and this is medically accepted, but when someone on antidrepessants goes mad and kills another person, the “authorities” tend not to know what to do.
Maybe there’s just (unresolved) “anxiety”.
Of Blessed Memory of Julie Greene:- All the Scientific Evidence points to the ‘Medical Approach’ making matters worse; and those that Genuinely Recover, recovering through abandoning the ‘Medical Approach’.
Thank You Robert for the brilliant Article,
In my opinion the Medical Model has proven that it has NO Solutions – only Disability and Early Death.
The Social Determinant Model has proven that it HAS Solutions and can even offer Self Actualization:
There’s such a thing as pushy parents pressurizing their children to become professionals when the children are not suitable. But I’ve never heard of this as a source if madness.
Sometimes parents pressurize children that are equipped but that don’t see a professional career as something they would like to be involved in. But these people usually escape successfully.
But lots of so called ‘professionals’ are completely incompetent and still manage to earn a reasonable living.
The Helping Hand
The people that do have genuine recovery are by far the best people to help other people recover – and it usually makes them feel good too.
Dr Philip,
I don’t know if unrealistic career expectations apply to me or not:-
The image above presents some of my craftsmanship. Initially the image might appear to represent a special finish (but the blue spots actually represent ‘snags’ that need to be put right).
About time!
I’ve heard it said that there’s an ‘alcoholic’ in every family, if this is true then it would discount a genetic component to ‘serious mental health diagnoses’.
Hi,
In terms of Economics how much does a dependent, non recovered ‘Schizophrenic’ or ‘Bi Polar’ cost the USA per year?
Akathisia is related to the
1. Starting
2. Stopping or
3. Changing of a drug, (it’s ‘traceable’).
So, if Akathisia were genuinely acknowledged, the information could lead to “historical investigations”.
But akathisia is not being genuinely acknowledged, so people are still dying from drug induced suicide, and people are
being blamed (and locked up) for drug induced behaviour that is ‘completely beyond their control’*
*(I’ve attempted suicide twice in a state of Neuroleptic Induced Acute Akathisia in my early 20s, 1980 to 1984.).
The Offending (Akathisia) Drug ‘Fluphenazine’ was still in use after 1983, but it began to be removed from the Worldwide market around 2016 on account of its “unreliable sources of production”.
“…For example, a study published in 1982 reported that when a group of patients with schizophrenia were each given 20 mg of fluphenazine, the difference between the highest and lowest blood level of the drug was 40-fold. Thus, a very low dose of an antipsychotic is sufficient to control the symptoms of many patients with schizophrenia, even if it does not produce full recovery, whereas other patients may require much higher doses to achieve the same effect…”
I’d say, most prescribers don’t understand the dosage blood volume difference, and this might be why so many people ‘GO MAD’ (Akathisia) on ‘antidepressants’ :-
My picture of CBT is that it’s the same as traditional psychotherapy but in straight forward terms.
When I “catastrophise”, and recognise that I’m “catastophising” I can definitely do something about it. But I don’t see CBT as an instant ‘cure’.
The “Catastrophisation” I suffered from, had followed my withdrawal from a Long Acting Modecate Depot Injection (“suitable” for “Schizophrenia”).
“..Let’s put this matter in context. For the last four decades or so, research psychiatrists have labored strenuously in their respective areas to uncover the biological pathologies that would validate their various diagnoses, i.e. would prove that they are real illnesses…”
The problem as I see it, is that Psychiatry has NO Solutions. Psychiatric Treatments deteriorate and disable people – and this is why ‘Severe Mental Illness’ is classified as a long term condition.
The Solutions exist only outside of Medical Psychiatry.
Thank you Dr Philip,
I hope I’m not too far off topic here.
I estimate that least 50% of all people become “Schizophrenic” in the same way as I did i.e. through the consumption of strong psychiatric drugs (and the people that recover, usually recover as a result of carefully ‘not taking their medication’).
“…In the most robust UK study to date, the incidence of schizophrenia was found to be ninefold higher in black Caribbeans than in the white British population…”
The above UK study is Bulls**t.
I believe Kanye Wests first Psychiatric Drug prior to the advent of ‘his’ ‘BiPolar’ ‘Mania’ was the Antidepressant Lexapro.
Hi Rose,
Your story sounds like a good warning to anyone thinking about seeing a Psychiatrist with an ‘anxiety problem’. The warning maybe being that ‘the Psychiatrist might not have a clue’.
As soon as I saw Zoloft I was wondering where Zantax was. But you found the right path in the end.
I recovered, in my 20s, through a micro withdrawal process. The Consultant Psychiatrist had offered me the option of Abrupt Withdrawal from a Depot Injection but this proved ‘unsuitable’ (even though depot is supposed to leave the body very slowly).
I’ve noticed that the generally offered abrupt withdrawal (option) from Depot Medication usually ends up badly, but I think this is because the person hasn’t been given a decent chance. So I think that what Psychiatrists describe as ‘Genuine Schizophrenia’ is more a bit of a ‘Lottery’.
Thank You Dr Florence,
“…Without a self-articulated framework, those deemed “mad” will remain subject to the symbolic and material violence of experts…” – Violence / Torture.
If every “Severely And Enduringly Mentally Ill” person can completely recover through non drug (/non physical) means as I was assured by a Clinical Psychologist in Ireland in1983, and as the British Psychological Society (to a large extent) supports – then I wonder why so many Qualified Psychologists appear to behave as if they accept differently?
“…Mr Nugent said Mrs Palmer was admitted to a psychiatric unit at the hospital under the care of Prof Fahy. She was kept there for a week. To the consternation of her husband, her own family and her friends who contacted the hospital, she was released. ..”
“…”This is hell”, nine times over. “A disgusting waste of two beautiful girls – two human beings” on the reverse. These were among the last words written by Mrs Catherine Palmer, jotted on a note found in her trouser pocket by Garda Michael Harte after her death…”
I notice the people that do genuinely recover tend to recover independently, of the Very Expensive UK Mental Health System. In other areas of Medical Achievement the NHS is considered to be maybe the best in the world.
Thank you Sarah, your writing is very easy to read and register. It seems that the result, of whats on offer from Psychiatry by way of help, is equivalent to some type of industrial disaster.
I notice the UK seems to be making consistent Human Rights Progress (Directly Questioning Fixed Beliefs with Scientific Evidence):-
“…Understanding Psychosis and Schizophrenia. The problems we think of as ‘psychosis’ – hearing voices, believing things that others find strange, or appearing out of touch with reality – can be understood in the same way as other psychological problems such as anxiety or shyness…”
Many psychiatrists believe that severe mental health problems like schizophrenia must be treated with medication, but if you don’t want to take antipsychotics, there are alternative treatments you can try. You may find it’s possible to manage your symptoms, or to make a full recovery, without medication. This page covers:
Talking treatments
Arts therapies
Ecotherapy
Complementary and alternative therapies
Peer support groups
Healthy lifestyle changes…”
“…For example, 72 per cent of those with first episode psychosis treated via an Open Dialogue approach returned to work or study within two years, despite significantly lower rates of medication and hospitalisation compared to treatment as usual…”
theloniusmonk,
I came off my Modecate Depot Injection (with permission), because of its disabling side effects in late 1983, and ended up in hospital fairly quickly afterwards. I was put back on an increased dosage of Modecate while in hospital – and I experienced an Akathisia induced suicide attempt in early 1984.
I then tried to come off the Modecate Injection again, but I couldn’t, so I asked my doctors for a medication with less side effects. Another medication Depixol Depot Injection was recommended – but after taking the Depixol injection I became suicidal (with Akathisia) and I had to fight my way back into hospital (where I stayed for less than 2 days).
I then asked doctors to prescribe me an Oral “medication” which they did, but I found I also suffered from “Drug Withdrawal High Anxiety”. This “High Anxiety” could have driven me MAD, had I not learnt how to deal with it.
I was able to function with the Oral medication and as my ability to deal with my “High Anxiety” improved, I was able to cut the Oral Medication down very gradually, to eventually nothing.
Doctor David Healy was around during my “Drug Withdrawal” at Galway Ireland Regional Hospital 1983/1984, and I visited him with my notes, in Wales in 2018. Dr Healy provided me with a letter stating that he was confident that I had never suffered from Severe Mental Illness to begin with, and that it was likely that the treatment had been the problem.
But, if I hadn’t learnt how to overcome my ” Drug Induced High Anxiety” through Psychological Means, I’m sure I wouldn’t have been in a position to challenge any “Diagnosis” – I would more than likely have been DEAD.
“…Understanding Psychosis and Schizophrenia. The problems we think of as ‘psychosis’ – hearing voices, believing things that others find strange, or appearing out of touch with reality – can be understood in the same way as other psychological problems such as anxiety or shyness…”
Thank you Sam.
EMOTION AND THE DIGITAL AGE
Thanks Professor Ian Tucker and Dr Tim Beck for the great Article.
I was reading about Jack Dorsey CEO of ‘Twitter’ and ‘Square’ and how he lives.
He walks five miles to work several days a week.
He only eats one meal per day during the week (usually chicken and vegetables or salad), and doesn’t eat at all on Saturday.
He does 2 hours Vipassana Meditation every day, and for his holiday he went to a 10 day, all day meditation retreat.
He’s one of the richest people in America but his main enjoyments could probably be practised by anyone.
(He has a very nice house also, I believe, and he might date supermodels).
In a tribal society a creative person can have value especially when the tribe is under pressure, but in an industrial society people that don’t conform are an “excess to requirements”. “Schizophrenia” was invented around the same time as the industrial revolution.
There were lots of other things around prior to the industrial revolution, but no “schizophrenia”. Once the medications arrived – the job was done. The “schizophrenics” could be “switched off”.
Neuroleptics AKA “Antipsychotics” (according to my verifiable experience) CAUSE the Symptoms associated with “those at Risk of Psychosis”, they do not alleviate them.
I felt okay not taking “antipsychotics” to begin with. But when I attempted to come off them some years later (abruptly, with permission), I had 4 hospitalizations in 5 months a suicide attempt and an almost suicide.
It took me 6 years to carefully withdraw from a dosage suitable for “schizophrenia”. But I wouldn’t have made it, if I had not come to the realization that I was suffering from the “High Anxiety” of “antipsychotic drug withdrawal”.
I had never previously experienced anything like this Anxiety. My exposure to these drugs could have driven me MAD.
To cope with the High Anxiety of Neuroleptic drug Withdrawal, I had to learn to sit with “acutely uncomfortable feelings”, and to “stay out of my head” at the same time. When I “balanced off” my thinking would return to a “hypothetical level”, which was always safe for me.
I Recovered as a result of stopping Neuroleptic / Psychotogenic Drugs.
“….Statistics suggest a black man in the UK is 17 times more likely than a white man to be diagnosed with a serious mental health condition such as schizophrenia or bipolar…”
John Weir Perry, Stan Groff, David Lukoff, Richard Bentall, Sinead Gallagher.
“….The problems we think of as ‘psychosis’ – hearing voices, believing things that others find strange, or appearing out of touch with reality – can be understood in the same way as other psychological problems such as anxiety or shyness…”
Someone Else,
“….How an industry can claim to “know everything about the meds,” yet…”
You’ve hit the nail on the head!
The situation is Ridiculous!
Thanks Sam.
Some people claim that “Antidepressants are prescribed like sweets”. But taking these Drugs can have long term affects:-
APPLYING TO JOIN THE ESSEX POLICE
QUESTION
I am taking antidepressants for depression. My depression is really well controlled. Would this affect my application?
ANSWER
Each decision is made after a careful consideration of the facts. The severity of the condition is reflected by the type of antidepressant, its strength and the duration of treatment in addition to many other factors.
We would also consider the 2004 Home Office guidance which generally advises against accepting recruits whilst they are still being treated with antidepressants and for a period after stopping them. We recognise that this is guidance but guidance holds a particular status in law.
The main goal of the assessment is to determine your mental resilience and the probability of further episodes of impaired mental health. Police work is like no other and good mental resilience and emotional stability are paramount.
“…This was so clear that the US FDA demanded that a black box warning be put onto the label…”
These drugs can also cause Homicide:- The Characteristics of Akathisia induced Behaviour are:-
1. The Behaviour follows the stopping starting or changing of a “Psychiatric Medication”
2. The Behaviour is Extreme
3.The Behaviour is out of Character
What Neuroleptic drugs do is create conditions of “Indifference”. So a person is not worried about what’s on their minds, or anything else.
Buddhist Psychology/Philosophy encourages a state of “Equanamity” where a person is aware of their circumstances but accepting of them. From this position problems are not too difficult to deal with.
Dr Robin Murray towards the end of his career also acknowledged the existence of “Neuroleptic Withdrawal Syndrome”. This condition is IMO, what holds people in “Long Term Severe Mental Illness”.
The Black Psychiatrists and MH Workers In my Opinion are likely to do as much damage as the White Psychiatrists and MH Workers.
Your experience must have been full of great suffering but as a Psychologist you’ve gone through the eye of the needle and come out the other side. How many so called experts can claim this?
I’m a bit of a fan of Eckhart Tolles myself. Though, I’m still trying to see exactly what he’s got.
I hope to come across more of you on Mad in America!
The UK seems to be one of the countries that’s consistently making advances in “Mental Health”.
I doubt my heart would be functioning on 1000mg per day!
Jill, I was prescribed 25mg of Seroquel per day and I was taking about 6 mg of Seroquel per day (I used to bite it in 4). When I stopped the Seroquel I still had years of unsuccessful sleeping.
6mg Seroquel taken 10 minutes before I went to bed, used to knock me out.
Well done Angela. And thank you for telling us about it.
Klonopin sounds like a good drug to start off with – to drive a person MAD.
I was given permission to come off my meds abruptly, and I didn’t last long. But it worked when I slowly tapered over many years. I also found workable answers for my ‘High Anxiety’ within Psychology and Self Help.
And thank you also James!
Psychiatric Care Fails to Address High Suicide Rates of Native Alaskans. Psychiatric care as I understand it might make matters worse.
Thank You Jill, it really is Snakes And Ladders.
Psychiatric Abuse goes hand in hand with Diagnosis, and this is why (in my opinion), “Schizophrenia” should be internationally outlawed.
There’s been a mass chemical Killing of people labelled with “Schizophrenia” by Psychiatry in the past 60 years that would equal a tiny fraction of the “mercy killings genocide” which took place in parts of Europe in the 1930s.
SCIENTIFICALLY
“Anti Psychotic” Drugs cause Suicide and Homicide (Akathisia), Disability, Ill Health and Early Death.
“Akathisia Suicides” are ‘philosophically’ covered up through a Policy of Psychiatric Corruption and Self Interest, and “Akathisia Violence” is blamed on the “Patient”.
Coming off “Antipsychotic” Drugs responsibly can lead to Full Recovery. A Fact that has been demonstrated many times on this Website.
“Anti Psychotic” Drugs can also cause “Schizophrenia” in the Misdiagnosed – Black People are NOT 9 times more likely to develop “Schizophrenia”:
“…In 2006, ÆSOP reported a ninefold increase in the risk of developing schizophrenia in black Caribbeans when compared with the white British population..”
I’ve been on these drugs myself. I was disabled while I took them, and I found it extremely difficult to come off them.
I notice that most people that genuinely Recover as a result of stopping “medication” Recover in similar ways.
A problem I can see with the “Hearing Voices Network” in London is that they only seem to have meetings “during normal working hours”, whereas most Peer Groups have meetings outside of normal working hours.
Most people are unlikely to be available between 9am and 6pm to attend a London HVN Meeting, so the potential for people to gain or to contribute is very limited.
Thank You Madison Natarajan,
I appreciate your inverted comma treatment of ‘Psychosis’.
Many psychiatrists believe that severe mental health problems like schizophrenia must be treated with medication, but if you don’t want to take antipsychotics, there are alternative treatments you can try.
You may find it’s possible to manage your symptoms, or to make a full recovery, without medication. This page covers:
Talking treatments
Arts therapies
Ecotherapy
Complementary and alternative therapies
Peer support groups
Healthy lifestyle changes…”
Thank You Linda,
I’m very sorry for your loss.
I’m glad you got out, and wrote constructively about the misery. Your book will help others.
Nobody gets much better in the Psychiatric system as far as I can see. I know I didn’t.
Thanks Dr Ana,
I wonder if the GP prescribers know anything about AKATHISIA?
I would describe the people in the Study not as “Psychotic” but maybe with distress.
Two of the most exclusive eye hospitals in the world The Western Eye Hospital and Moorefields Eye Hospital are based at London in the UK.
When I attended both of these NHS Eye Hospitals with eye problems and mentioned, that Psychotropic drugs I had consumed in the early 1980s had affected my eyesight, doctors at both of these hospitals kept what I said off my Records and entered negative Mental Health entries instead.
At Moorefields Eye Hospital the Consultant himself recorded “takes Seroquel for his Psychiatric Problems” into my Notes. Whereas my prescription of Seroquel at 25 mg per day – would NOT have been suitable for any “Psychiatric Problem” whatsoever. Seroquel at 25mg per day is only used for Off Label Purposes.
The Consultants casual approach might reasonably predict the actual standard of medical care available to a person “with Psychiatric Problems” in some Nhs medical facilities in the UK.
I came off neuroleptics with basic Psychotherapy but “people” can “Fu*k Off” with the term “Psychosis”.
But this is Very Good News!
Neuroleptics are not needed as Mad in America has continually maintained, and we’re getting to a point where “Schizophrenia” doesn’t exist.
I think the term “Psychotic” is widely misused. If a person can benefit from communication then surely they are not “Psychotic”.
IMO the answers to Depression and Anxiety, were ‘invented’ in India, and are available more or less for free. And we are very grateful in the West to be able to access them.
You describe nasty and vindictive behaviour from the Psychiatric Authorities against a senior citizen. Its like the entire system is corruptly stacked against a “target”. If Kerry survives it proves “them” wrong.
I can’t agree either, with the notion that psychiatric drugs make people safer. It’s well established that psychiatric drugs can cause Suicide and Homicide; and shorten life expectancy considerably.
The LINK below represents how a ‘humane helping hand’ can have an extremely successful outcome:-
Fair play to the Australian Health Minister for supporting an ‘open minded’ investigation into the increase in Suicide among young Australians.
Death
On 14 June 2020, Rajput, aged 34, was found dead hanging from the ceiling fan in his home in Bandra, Mumbai.[67] He had reportedly been suffering from depression for about six months. No suicide note has been found as of 15 June 2020.[68] According to Mumbai Police IPS officer Vinay Chaubey, medical prescriptions and medical reports were found in Sushant’s room and an investigation is underway.[69][70]
“…One policy conclusion that could be drawn from this study is that the attempt to use drugs to make mental patients less dangerous is the obverse of what is needed. ..” – Completely true again.
Psychiatric medications (usually taken for “work stress”) can cause Suicide Violence and Homicide in people with no underlying “mental illness” or violent tendencies.
Completely true. Jails are not full of violent “schizophrenics”, they are full of people that attack other people when they are drunk.
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
“..Early death, by up to 25 years, is frequently found to be associated with long-term use of neuroleptics/tranquilizers (euphemistically called “anti-psychotics)…”
Drug induced Suicide (Akathisia) in the first few years after Diagnosis contributes also to the early death figure. Below is a LINK concerning my own experience, demonstrating Psychiatrists being prepared to set up situations whereby complainants can be killed:
I can only presume “this Practice” to be “Common Medical Practice”.
Thank You Ashley,
Psychiatric Drug induced Suicide, Homicide and Violence tend to be closely related. Society would be a lot safer without “antidepressants”.
Sam
When they present studies concerning “antidepressants” and recovery rates and scientific percentages I think they’re “waffling”.
“Antidepressants” have never established themselves as having any value in terms of effectiveness.
In my opinion the Epidemic in Irish Suicide and Familicide can be directly traced to the commonplace use of Psychiatric Drugs in the “normal population”.
“..An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex,” he wrote…”
Society is full of potentially gratuitously dangerous people without “Mental Illness”. Whats so special about the “Mentally Ill”?
I’m sure it’s possible to improve life without taking a moral perspective!
.
“Anosgonosia” reminds me of a “neologism” and if you put this along with thinking cats have “schizophrenia” then E Fuller Torrey is definitely “schizophrenic”.
Thank You, John and Irving and James
You are part of a group of ethical professionals and activists that are patiently and successfully turning the tables on very bad behaviour in “Mental Health”. The results of this in my opinion, can be clearly seen in the UK.
“…In reviewing the studies it was sometimes the case that only the treating psychiatrist was rating the effectiveness of the procedure, not the patient…”
– Which in the case of electric shock would be fairly “useless”.
As regards “symptoms”; if a person is okay with a “symptom”, and it doesn’t affect anyone else; is there anything “wrong” with the symptom?
Dear Sera, thank you for writing this.
Its true that none of us are saints, some of us get away with our misdeeds, and some of us get sent to jail.
“…Virtually every family in the country, the research indicates, has been subject to overtesting and overtreatment in one form or another. The costs appear to take thousands of dollars out of the paychecks of every household each year. …”
Thanks Will and Faith,
As usual this is a very well written Article.
I remember (reading) from your own experience Will, that you were incarcerated as a ‘seriously unwell’ person until the insurance money ran out, and then you were “released”.
Results: The suicide rate in schizophrenia between 1875 and 1924 was 20 per 100 000 hospital years, a lifetime rate of less than 0.5%. The suicide rate for all psychoses was 16 per 100 000 hospital years. Current rates of suicide for schizophrenia and other psychoses appear 20-fold higher.
(‘Schizophrenics’ that don’t ever take medication are 20 times less likely to Kill themselves Or other people).
In the UK ‘Severe Mental Illness’ Diagnosis of Black People is supposed to be at least 10 times that for White People. This difference is what I’d be wondering about as regards ‘black suicidality’ in the USA, as I know from my own observation and personal experience that Psychiatric drugs can cause ‘irresistible’ suicide.
Dr Richard,
Against Psychiatric Treatments
I don’t see it as a question of “Either/Or”, as most people that consume strong psychiatric drugs are likely to remain longterm psychiatrically disabled (costing the country about £75,000 per person per year or about £3 million per person, in the course of their lives, if they live long enough).
In the past 36 years I have cost the Irish/Uk taxpayer nothing in Mental health terms – as a result of carefully leaving psychiatry.
If “basic psychotherapy” works with “neuroleptic withdrawal syndrome”, I don’t see why it wouldn’t work with “original problems”.
SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS FRAUD “LICENCE TO KILL”
From: [My Email Address – Removed]
To: Medical Newton (NHS CENTRAL LONDON (WESTMINSTER) CCG)
Sent: Friday, 16 November 2018, 00:42:07 GMT
Subject: Att. All Partners and Dr Baluch
Dear Sirs/(Madams)
In your Letter dated October 17 2018 – you seriously misrepresent me.
TRUST
My trust in Newton Medical was broken in October of 2012 when (to my horror) I discovered my name had been on a Severe Mental Illness Register since 2002. At this time (2002) I had been working as a Building Subcontractor in the **House of Parliament Buildings (and can substantiate this).
OCTOBER 8 2018 VISIT TO NEWTON MEDICAL. REGARDING HEALTH AND SAFETY ON BUILDING SITES
On October 8 2018 I explained (and showed ) to the Reception Manager and to Dr Baluch at Newton Medical, that at my last appointment on **July 20 2016 Dr Simons had given me in writing a sheet of paper from the Appointment Notes stating that – “he could see no reason that I could NOT work on a Building Site” . While at the same time Dr Simons had provided me with another sheet of paper from a “Legal Adviser” (July 20 2016)
(which made reference to the historical 1986 Irish Record Summary) but also at the the bottom of the page stated – that I had a “Diagnosis of Schizophrenia…” and “had NOT DISPUTED this diagnosis..”.
I explained on October 8 2018 that I had shown and discussed both of these contradictory statements received in July 20 2016 with a Building Health and Safety Officer who advised me to get this contradictory situation resolved – as the medical suggestions could undermine my credibility, and could affect me in the event of an accident on a Building Site.
I have not suffered any disability in my 30 years in the UK; but Medical Claims of Present day Severe Mental Illness are invalidating. I presumed Newton Medical (promoting the disability) to be the first place to approach – this is why I called to the Surgery on October 8 2018.
DISTRESS
When I clearly demonstrated the Malpractice properties of the 1986 Irish Record Summary to Dr Simons in two interviews in October/November 2012 – at the end of both of these interviews Dr Simons shirt was completely saturated and sticking to his body (he was genuinely traumatised).
But, there is no mention anywhere on my records of this Malpractice.
MY BACKGROUND
I made Full Recovery in 1984 as a Result of carefully tapering from the Modecate Depot Injection with the help of Practical Psychotherapy – and returned to normal life and independence.
I attempted to come off strong drugs in 1983 but when I did, my brain was completely broken, and I didn’t last long. I managed on my third attempt in 1984 though, with a careful drug taper; and through a similar ‘psychotherepeutic process’ – as described in “The Untethered Soul” by Michael Singer and “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle.
Dr David Healy did not administer the Haloperidol I consumed in 1980/81, but he was around at Galway in 1984 when I moved towards independance.
Dr Healy provided me with a professional Letter at Bangor, Wales in 2018 stating that he was confident I had never originally suffered from “Severe Mental Illness”. This was exactly what the Irish Priest I had visited in Central London in 1980 had also maintained.
What Happened to Me?
I spent the Summer of 1980 in Amsterdam but there is no mention of this on the English side of my Medical Records ¿¿¿
In 1986 Pharmacology Professor at Galway University Brian Leonard was President of the British Association of Psychopharmacologists.¿¿,
In 1985 my Psychiatrist at Galway, Dr PA Carney was on the examining board of the UK Royal College of Psychiatrists.¿¿
(If a person can recover from ‘Schizophrenia’ with basic Psychotherapy then this would be the way forward).
In my opinion there is no such thing as “Schizophrenia”. The reason I was able to come off strong psychiatric drugs (and recover) was because I was able to find a way to deal with my Neuroleptic Drug Withdrawal Anxiety.
Prior to coming off strong Psychiatric drugs I was diagnosed as ‘the worst schizophrenic in Ireland’.
CLAIM
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
NONSENSE
Black Men are NOT 17 times more likely to suffer from Genuine “Psychosis” as white men, but once they enter the psychiatric system they are as likely as anyone else to remain “PSYCHIATRIC”.
“Schizophrenia” is either a life long chronic disease or it’s not. A person with a diagnosis of “Schizophrenia” either remains long-term chronically mentally ill or they don’t.
Psychiatric drugs In my experience are disabling to the extent that a person cannot function normally when they take them, and psychiatric drugs also have withdrawal syndromes which can make it almost impossible for a person to stop taking them.
I think the fact that doctors are not aware of the overall problems with psychiatric drug treatment and dependency and long term outcomes, indicates how poor the standard of “Mental Health medicine” is.
Please help,
I attended a Maudsley debate where Dr John Read debated, alongside a very genuine Lady doctor who had been seriously damaged by ECT. I believe she attested that she did make a recovery through psychological means. But I don’t remember this Lady’s name off hand.
“…the only danger is a slightly higher risk of suicide when people first start taking it, because they feel so much better…”
I’ve heard this before – its just clever talk!
(I have never attempted suicide OFF medication).
Hi Marcello,
The thing about the Recovery movement is that the people have really hard times and they can all completely Recover (no matter how crazy they are).
All the people in “Normal People” are Normal but they could all be “Diagnosed”.
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
Which speaks for itself.
How About Fact No 14
Psychiatry administers physical treatments that “work” through completely disabling an individual; rather than offering non physical treatments, that are proven to completely recover an individual.
Berzerk
I think at this stage the GP s are mostly ‘bought and sold’. They might be aware that anti depressants are “trouble” but they mightn’t consider themselves to be in much of a position to do anything about the situation.
“…For Evan, my take is his parents’ and the larger Durst family’s refusal to discuss the probable murder of his beloved Aunt Kathie by his uncle caused analogous problems for Evan…”
How would any reasonable child cope with the “normalisation” of “family member murder”?
Thank you Peter, it’s only determined effort that has brought the fatal dangers of these drugs to the surface.
“…2.5 times as likely to attempt suicide ..” this is not a good advert for antidepressants.
Thank you for this worthwhile article, Francesca.
Its nice to see you back on Mad In America.
You make a lot of sense.
I can identify with the drug disability you describe, this is most peoples main problem.
It took me 6 years to cut from 25mg per month of Fluphenazine LAI injection (suitable for Schizophrenia), to 25mg per day of Thoradazine (suitable for Hiccoughs).
Thank you for presenting this, Jim.
Its amazing what groups of people and institutions can do, and get away with.
SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS FRAUD – AS HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSE
RESPONSE TO GP DELISTING LETTER:
From: [Name Removed]
To: Medical Newton (NHS CENTRAL LONDON (WESTMINSTER) CCG)
Sent: Friday, 16 November 2018, 00:42:07 GMT
Subject: Att. All Partners and Dr Baluch
Dear Sirs/(Madams)
In your Letter dated October 17 2018 – you seriously misrepresent me.
TRUST
My trust in Newton Medical was broken in October of 2012 when (to my horror) I discovered my name had been on a Severe Mental Illness Register since 2002. At this time (2002) I had been working as a Building Subcontractor in the House of Parliament Buildings (and can substantiate this).
OCTOBER 8 2018 VISIT TO NEWTON MEDICAL. REGARDING HEALTH AND SAFETY ON BUILDING SITES
On October 8 2018 I explained (and showed ) to the Reception Manager and to Dr Baluch at Newton Medical, that at my last appointment on July 20 2016 Dr Simons had given me in writing a sheet of paper from the Appointment Notes stating that – “he could see no reason that I could NOT work on a Building Site” . While at the same time Dr Simons had provided me with another sheet of paper from a “Legal Adviser” (July 20 2016)
(which made reference to the historical 1986 Irish Record Summary) but also at the the bottom of the page stated – that I had a “Diagnosis of Schizophrenia…” and “had NOT DISPUTED this diagnosis..”.
I explained on October 8 2018 that I had shown and discussed both of these contradictory statements received in July 20 2016 with a Building Health and Safety Officer who advised me to get this contradictory situation resolved – as the medical suggestions could undermine my credibility, and could affect me in the event of an accident on a Building Site.
I have not suffered any disability in my 30 years in the UK; but Medical Claims of Present day Severe Mental Illness are invalidating. I presumed Newton Medical (promoting the disability) to be the first place to approach – this is why I called to the Surgery on October 8 2018.
DISTRESS
When I clearly demonstrated the Malpractice properties of the 1986 Irish Record Summary to Dr Simons in two interviews in October/November 2012 – at the end of both of these interviews Dr Simons shirt was completely saturated and sticking to his body (he was genuinely traumatised).
But, there is no mention anywhere on my records of this Malpractice.
MY BACKGROUND
I made Full Recovery in 1984 as a Result of carefully tapering from the Modecate Depot Injection with the help of Practical Psychotherapy – and returned to normal life and independence.
“…To compound neuroleptics’ ‘sledgehammer’ approach, neurons are very adept at growing new receptors to compensate for those that are blocked. Psychotic symptoms then rebound with a vengeance. …”
BUT
this Approach from Eckhart Tolle in dealing with the Pain Body, might sound crazy, but actually works (with practice):
“…This accumulated pain is a negative energy field that occupies your body and mind. If you look on it as an invisible entity in its own right, you are getting
and accidents are often created in this way. Some pain-bodies drive their hosts to suicide.
When you thought you knew a person and then you are suddenly confronted with this alien, nasty creature for the first time, you are in for quite a shock. However, it’s more important to observe it in yourself than in someone else. Watch out for any sign of unhappiness in yourself, in whatever form — it may be the awakening pain-body. This can take the form of irritation, impatience, a somber mood, a desire to hurt, anger, rage, depression, a need to have some drama in your relationship, and so on. Catch it the moment it awakens from its dormant state.
The pain-body wants to survive, just like every other entity in existence, and it can only survive if it gets you to unconsciously identify with it. It can then rise up, take you over, “become you,” and live through you. It needs to get its “food” through you. It will feed on any experience that resonates with its own kind of energy, anything that creates further pain in whatever form: anger, destructiveness, hatred, grief, emotional drama, violence, and even illness. So the pain-body, when it has taken you over, will create a situation in your life that reflects back its own energy frequency for it to feed on. Pain can only feed on pain. Pain cannot feed on joy. It finds it quite indigestible.
Once the pain-body has taken you over, you want more pain. You become a victim or a perpetrator. You want to inflict pain, or you want to suffer pain, or both. There isn’t really much difference between the two. You are not conscious of this, of course, and will vehemently claim that you do not want pain. But look closely and you will find that your thinking and behavior are designed to keep the pain going, for yourself and others. If you were truly conscious of it, the pattern would dissolve, for to want more pain is insanity, and nobody is consciously insane.
The pain-body, which is the dark shadow cast by the ego, is actually afraid of the light of your consciousness. It is afraid of being found out. Its survival depends on your unconscious identification with it, as well as on your unconscious fear of facing the pain that lives in you. But if you don’t face it, if you don’t bring the light of your consciousness into the pain, you will be forced to relive it again and again. The pain-body may seem to you like a dangerous monster that you cannot bear to look at, but I assure you that it is an insubstantial phantom that cannot prevail against the power of your presence.
Some spiritual teachings state that all pain is ultimately an illusion, and this is true. The question is: Is it true for you? A mere belief doesn’t make it true. Do you want to experience pain for the rest of your life and keep saying that it is an illusion? Does that free you from the pain? What we are concerned with here is how you can realize this truth — that is, make it real in your own experience.
So the pain-body doesn’t want you to observe it directly and see it for what it is. The moment you observe it, feel its energy field within you, and take your attention into it, the identification is broken. A higher dimension of consciousness has come in. I call it presence. You are now the witness or the watcher of the pain-body. This means that it cannot use you anymore by pretending to be you, and it can no longer replenish itself through you. You have found your own innermost strength. You have accessed the power of Now. …”
The fact that “Antidepressants” can cause suicide is a bit like – a “sick joke”.
To be completely honest, I cannot identify with non psychiatric ‘medication’ induced Suicide.
I know people often find life very hard, but most of the time they don’t kill themselves.
I know I can cope without neuroleptics, with the help of ‘basic psychology’ – so I’d wonder how many MH Workers are up to the job.
“….To compound neuroleptics’ ‘sledgehammer’ approach, neurons are very adept at growing new receptors to compensate for those that are blocked. Psychotic symptoms then rebound with a vengeance….”
I am incapable of imagining suicide in “Mental Health”, not being related to Psychiatric Drugs.
Hi Sera,
I’m not a therapist, but I can see why this might be a tricky question.
The main problem I see is the Control and Authority thing in ‘Mental Health’, otherwise I’d imagine it would be perfectly okay to ask the question (if it was suitable) and to advise, or support a person as they would like.
(I recall seeing an article some time ago on a BBC Website where seemingly a lot of young British people privately dwell on suicide – but obviously most don’t go ahead with it).
Samantha,
I can tell you for a fact that Psychiatric drugs cause Suicide and Mental Illness.
I have had regular suicidal hospitalizations, on the drugs below..
..but never before going on them (1960 to 1980) or since coming off them (1984 to 2020).
The paper seems to suggest that ‘schizophrenia’ might actually exist as a type of neurological condition – but if this is the case then what about Open Dialogue, The Hearing Voices Network and other Psychological solutions that are proven to work? Where do these fit in?
I know from coming off Neuroleptics myself, that it is possible to learn ‘to cope’ with the ‘Horrors of Neuroleptic Withdrawal Syndrome’ through ‘very careful drug withdrawal, and suitable anxiety management techniques’.
‘Psychosis’ itself is a transitory symptom, but ‘neuroleptic induced dopamine supersensitivity’ is not.
I’ve heard a few people talk about meditations triggering ‘psychosis’ and its not too surprising when you think about it. I also know from my own experience that antidepressants and different psychiatric drugs can trigger “lunacy”, and quitting them can also trigger “lunacy”.
I was only able to come off “my own schizophrenic drugs” (very slowly); when I learned how to cope with my very severe “drug withdrawal anxiety”.
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
It is acknowledged though, that “alcoholics” that learn to live without alcohol, often live happy and productive lives.
Lack of long-term outcome data means you have no idea what the “treatment” is likely to do to you and your brain!
“….Anatomy of an Epidemic gives facts and figures on the astonishing rise in social security disability cases due to mental illness. Whitaker makes a comparison between the advent of Prozac in 1987 and the subsequent 37-fold increase in disability cases…”
Most of these people (the “mentally” disabled) will die in treatment.
…as in make genuine and complete Recovery.
This is known as Papal Infallability!
According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous:- the end of the line for an Alcoholic comes when he can’t live with alcohol and he can’t live without it. This is known as the “Jumping off Point”, when the alcoholic feels life is no longer worth living. But if the hopeless Alcoholic is lucky his new life is just about to begin.
Euthanasia or Government Sponsored Suicide is now available for lots of European people, even young physically fit adults who have now arrived at the “end of the line” with “Mental Illness”, Trauma, Depression Antidepressants (and other psychotropics). But it is very possible to turn this corner.
In the middle ages an elixir was discovered in Ireland and Scotland and it became known as the “Water of Life” or “Uisce Beatha”.
It gave pleasure and happiness and friendliness to people who consumed it, and it also had medicinal qualities.
But most reasonable people were aware that it should be used very carefully, as too much of it could cause harm.
The “potion” was known for short as “Uisce”, and in English the pronunciation became “Whisky”.
And you can’t contradict the Pope because the Pope is divinely guided by God.
Sam, I promise you I was a lot less of a risk to myself off strong “medications”!
Hi Eric,
Its nice to see you back again.
“…..the relapse rate after taking pills for depression is two to three times higher than with psychotherapy. Similar results are found for treating anxiety….”
I think the “relapse rate” might be worse for anxiety: Psychologist Dr Jordan Peterson developed severe anxiety from his anti anxiety “medication”, while still on the “medication”.
(I have suffered badly myself from the effects of psychiatric drugs, and I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone).
Thank You Dr Gail,
It must have taken a lot of courage to write this!
‘Anyone’ could be diagnosed as mentally ill for saying they believed that they were not mentally ill.
I live in London (UK) where the majority of ‘normal men’ have ‘histories of violence’; this can be seen from the ‘battle scars’ on their faces. How can a ‘MH risk of violence’ be determined in settings like this?
My own suicidal hospitalisations (and MH disability) stopped when I stopped taking “my medication”.
“…The person with schizophrenia, however, not only hears the cough but may immediately decide it must be a signal of some kind,..”
I wonder how a person can practice “meditation” if they are on psychiatric drugs; and if meditation is used instead of psychiatric drugs, I wonder if this would not contradict the “doctors position”.
Thanks Julie,
Your best work was towards the end.
Steve
I don’t see my original comment in the discussion area.
Overcoming “Schizophrenia” doesn’t have to cost 1 Penny, and it can be done without the help of “western” psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists etc.
Dr Ayurdhi,
I attended a ‘Brahma Kumari’ stress management course in Central London a few years ago, where a young lady explained how the Brahma Kumari believed Stress ‘worked’.
She said that when something upsets us, its not the thing itself we’re bothered about. But, that we’re bothered because the thing opens up historical stress that’s within us. And the way to deal with the Stress is to accommodate it in the present.
Then she said “You see we are all Schizophrenics in real life”.
I myself have been told that I never originally suffered from “Schizophrenia”. But I have been exposed to heavy duty “schizophrenic” drugs and been diagnosed worse and worse during my psychiatric experience.
I recovered when I stopped taking the strong “schizophrenic” “medications” and then I suffered from quite a Lot of Catastrophic Stress. And as far as I can tell the Brahma Kumari Lady was 100 per cent right.
Hi Harry,
Thanks for telling your personal story and I’m glad you survived.
Have you come across the box set “Normal People” where everyone is “normal” but they still have to go through the wringer.
Ryan Air Boss Michael O Leary went to Trinity and that’s Irelands Oxford, that’s the kind of posh chums you might have – if you got that extra mark.
But the only ‘psychology’ that’s factually worth anything comes from the “non western” world!
Yes Julie (sadly departed),
You describe it exactly, as it is.
[I had 'something' similar with a doctor some years ago when I made a realistic and legitimate complaint. The doctor recorded me in my notes following this verbal complaint as "..mildly agitated but with no sign of thought disorder...", so I complained again expressing it in writing.
And that seemed to 'work'....]
If traditional methods can cure mental distress (as they can), then disabling and harmful chemical methods are unnecessary.
Thanks for this David,
“….We are now all the 100%. In today’s world, if you are not crazy you may be nuts!…”
Brilliant!
Steve,
Oprah Winfrey doesn’t seem to criticise Psychiatry.
Deepak Choprah seriously questions western medicine but does not seem to criticise Psychiatry.
Even Jordan Peterson after his dreadful drug withdrawal experience is not critising Psychiatry (too much).
The majority of politicians would be too legitimately frightened to challenge Psychiatry.
Thank you Dr Paula, I like this article.
I think the American voters more or less knew ‘capacity wise’ what they were getting when they voted Donald Trump in, and he doesn’t seem to have changed much over the years as President.
I wouldn’t trust the average Psychiatrist to be competent to judge the Capacity of an American President, as most are at least intentionally deluded.
I’m very interested to see though, whether Donald Trump will get voted in again.
Is it not illegal to hit children in Canada (as in most western countries)?
I believe I saw an article recently in the BBC that said that bad eating habits were more deadly than smoking and drinking (combined).
The only really worthwhile research in this area, has got to be successful Peer Research.
Blooding people involves getting them to commit ‘acts’ that tie them into a group.
This is (tragically) interesting because I have had 4 first cousins from one side of my family that have lost their lives on antidepressants, and none of them had much wrong with themselves to begin with.
No first cousins on the other side of my family died in similar circumstances, but at the time, these relatives would not have had access to ‘psycho tropic’ medical opinion.
.
Thanks Erin,
I really like this article, especially at the end when you recover, as a result of stopping ‘medication’.
Dear Malcolm
I’m very sorry for your loss. I have attempted suicide while suffering from drug induced acute akathisia more than once, and if I was in the same position again I would probably attempt suicide again.
“…This device was reportedly able to intervene directly in neurophysiological processes, creating certain emotional states such as calmness or elation, as well as behavioral reactions in animals and human beings…” ..and potentially states of Brain Damage.
Thanks Caroline,
You’ll get there in the end!
I would judge the psychiatric drugging of children for any reason to be many times more harmful than corporal punishment of children.
But I don’t think corporal punishment is in any way justifiable as effective, it’s more to do with adult satisfaction in physical abuse.
Theres probably a very good reason the USA army bans Seroquel.
In my experience even on very low non therapeutic doses of 25% of 25mg per day, these drugs can cause very frightening irregular heart rythm.
“HIGH ANXIETY”
The reason a lot of people find it difficult to withdraw from “antipsychotics” is because of “Antipsychotic” Withdrawal symptoms of overwhelming “High Anxiety”.
When I suffered from .my own “Withdrawal High Anxiety” I was eventually able to to see that if I didn’t engage with the Anxiety at the time; it eventually ran out of steam; and I was able to intuitively deal with whatever the problem was.
“Antipsychotics” Cause Suicide and “Mental Illness”
According (I believe) to Dr David Healy “antipsychotics” are 20 times more likely (than not) to cause suicide in “Schizophrenia”
I attempted suicide several times on “Antipsychotics” 1980 to 1984. I never attempted suicide before taking “antipsychotics” 1960 to 1980 or after successfully stopping “Antipsychotics” 1984 to 2020.
I recovered as a result of successfully stopping “antipsychotics” in 1984, and have remained well since.
Robert, What Might An Alternative To “Antipsychotics” Be?
From Dr Terry Lynchs Book “SelfHood”
Below:-
“Paranoid Schizophrenia” Recovery through Practical Psychotherapy Explained
“…I referred briefly to Stephen’s story in the chapter on self-generated security. Prior to attending me in his late thirties, Stephen had been diagnosed five years previously as having paranoid schizophrenia.
The level of loss of the components of selfhood, including the ability to make oneself feel safe, is at the extreme end of the scale in people diagnosed as suffering from schizophrenia.
He attended me to explore possible avenues of recovery. I could see how Stephen was diagnosed as having paranoid schizophrenia.
He saw threat and danger everywhere, when objectively there was none. Stephen’s level of selfhood was at rock bottom, and this was a fundamental underlying reason for his problems. His paranoia was entirely understandable as seen from his perspective, given that one of his main experiences was that he constantly felt unsafe, unprotected and unable to generate any personal security for himself. This was borne out in his second session with me.
As I mentioned briefly in the section on self-generated security, ten minutes into the session, Stephen looked terrified, and I asked him why. He replied ‘I’m not sure I can get out of this place alive’.
There were only the two of us in my office, and nobody in the waiting room. Objectively, there was no threat to Stephen, but he genuinely felt terrified for his life. He described the raw terror he felt almost constantly. I focused on enabling Stephen to progressively raise his level of selfhood. In particular, I worked with him on self-protection and self-generated security, because his lack of these dominated his life, the reason for his fear-filled thinking. I reassured him many times that in general he was much safer than he thought he was. We explored the various experiences of terror and paranoia in detail.
Stephen gradually comprehended that he was indeed much safer within these situations than he had thought. I explained to him that his terror-filled, paranoid thoughts were an outward projection of his inner fear and self-doubt. In public places, he would often have thoughts such as ‘they’re talking about me. I can tell by the way they are laughing that they are laughing at me’. Now, he realized that what he was feeling was more accurately expressed as ‘I feel extremely unsafe, insecure and unprotected right now. I feel terrified, and I’m scared that there could be threats to me here in this crowded place’.
This change in his understanding brought about a considerable shift. Previously, his thinking was preoccupied by the supposed threat that could lie around every corner. Now he was bringing his attention back to himself and what he was actually experiencing. Stephen was now aware of his own terror and inability to make himself feel safe, whereas previously he was not aware of this and instead was entirely focused on the dangers that lay waiting relentlessly for him everywhere. As Stephen was now truly aware of the role he played in his paranoid thinking, we had something substantial to work on. I used every possible opportunity to discuss self-protection and self-generated security with him.
We explored his experiences of paranoia in great detail as they occurred. Our work became firmly grounded on what had actually happened within himself and his personal space in a given situation, rather than focusing on his projections into, and his assumptions about, others and the outside world. People experiencing paranoia also experience their thinking speeding up, reflecting their terror.
Thoughts keep coming, in an ever-more-frantic cascading sequence. The person creates an entire scenario in their minds based on their initial first thoughts. The initial thought may be somewhat based on reality.
For example, a person across the bar happens to look in their direction. The person runs with this, creating a complicated sequence of events in their minds, a fantasy created under the influence of immense terror and great lack of inner safety. In a matter of minutes, sometimes seconds, they become convinced that there is a sinister plot to harm them in some way.
I used these experiences to get Stephen thinking about the accuracy of his interpretations of these episodes. I explained the futility and the dangers of attempting to read people’s minds, a habit that generally results in erroneous conclusions. He began to experiment with these ideas in areas where it really mattered, in the real world. In public places, Stephen would remember our conversations, notice how he was feeling, and whether or not he was attempting to read the minds of others.
For example, when in a bar and a paranoid thought sequence was beginning to gather pace, he was able to stop for a minute, bring his attention back to himself. He could now connect with what was going on for him, look around him, and reassure himself that at this moment, he was not in any danger. In contrast, like a rabbit caught in headlights, Stephen would previously have become increasingly transfixed by an unfolding scenario outside of himself, that he was actually creating through outward projection of his feeling unsafe.
I had encouraged Stephen to see things as they were, to resist the temptation to read into people’s actions and gestures and create his own fictional version of events. His previous pattern of projection had being going on constantly for him, but at an unaware level. He did not realize that he was doing this himself. For example, if a person looked at him and then looked left, he often concluded that this meant he was in trouble. If they turned their face to the right, it meant he would probably be okay, for now at least. Stephen believed that he was just tuning in to what was really out there in the world, but he was in fact creating this scenario himself. I suggested to Stephen that he needed to separate out the other person’s action from the meaning that he (and not the other person) was placing on this action.
I explained that he was relinquishing his power over himself to other people, most of whom neither wanted this power nor were aware that they were being dragged into this situation.
Stephen grasped these ideas and applied them in real-life situations, and in time he was able to extricate himself from his previous pattern of terror-based paranoid thinking.
We explored methods of raising his level of self-protection and self-generated security. These included repeatedly reminding himself that he lived within his personal space and boundary, that this was his space, that he was safe within this space, and that there was much he could do in any given situation to make himself safe.
When feeling unsafe, he would appraise the situation, see things and people as they were and be aware that any meaning he attached to them was entirely his creation and had little or nothing to do with other people or the situation. He reassured himself repeatedly every day that he was safe, that he could make himself safe and protect himself in any situation. When he experienced an episode of extreme fear or paranoia, he practised what we had done together many times in my office.
He separated what was really there from the story he had created, and then reassured himself several times that what he feared would happen had not actually come to pass.
This practise had the desired effect. His level of self-protection and self-generated security began to increase, slowly at first, then gathering pace. Stephen made considerable progress in raising his level of selfhood, of which, for him, self-protection and self-generated security were key factors.
Because he was doing well, his psychiatrist agreed to reduce his medication slightly, and I subsequently continued the process of gradually reducing Stephen’s medication.
Stephen has been off all schizophrenia medication for over three years. He lives a full life, goes where he likes, thrives in social situations, and has a level of selfhood higher that at any previous time in his life…”
Thanks Linda,
You’ve really been through the wringer – but you made it!
You had to figure it out for yourself. I remember a doctor friend of mine telling me that these drugs are one of the most dangerous drugs a person can take (we were discussing Ketogenic diet and epilepsy).
This article is very informative and very helpful.
You seem very tolerant even to those people that have nearly destroyed you. You might be right in the idea that they did not know what they were doing. I have come across some dreadful behaviour myself from very experienced clinical experts.
With nearly 20% of USA Adults on Psychotropics then maybe 40% + must have sampled them at one time or another, so you’re not the only one that’s almost DIED.
This is a British Ladies Extremely Credible Near Fatal Experience on “Anti depressants”
I think I can go some way in ‘establishing’ with documentary evidence, from Registered Doctors and the General Medical Council, that ‘Mental Health Diagnosis’ is completely unreliable:-
Schizophrenia is the ‘bread and butter’ of Psychiatry.
I was diagnosed as the “worst schizophrenic in Ireland” by Galway University Neuroscients in 1984, and then went on to make full recovery.
Dr David Healy wrote me a Letter in 2018 saying that I never had it to begin with. Dr Healy was present at the Psychiatric Unit at Galway in 1984 during my last very brief instay.
They often say that the man in the street is the best judge of mental illness or recovery.
In 1986 I went to see a priest/’social worker’ in London who I had previously visited in 1980 prior to admission to the Maudsley Psychiatric Hospital, and who knew me.
The Priest asked me in 1986 if I was still taking drugs, I told him that I took a little medication. He said he didn’t mean medication, that he meant illegal drugs. I told him I had never taken illegal drugs, but the priest didnt believe me. The notion of Mental Illness had never occurred to him!
By that token Corinna, if a person were to work as a waiter they mightn’t have recovered.
Dependency on the Psychiatric System might imply non recovery. But dependency on the system and treatments could be as a result of the system and the treatments.
I’m anonymous on Mad In America because my background is my own business.
I’m a Catholic and I believe my religion promotes a certain amount of suffering in life – so if you can get on successfully with your life as you describe, then you have definitely conquered “schizophrenia”!
I’d love to read another article from you on how you did conquer “schizophrenia”. Because I would be completely amazed that anyone on “schizophrenic” medication would be capable of functioning at your level. So you must have either quit medication or survived on low doses.
Anyway I hope to see you again on MIA.
About 25% of people are vulnerable 75% are not.
Hi Steve,
A lot if the ‘psychotherapy’ I got was from ‘books’ and from ‘trial and error’, and from 12 Step groups and Buddhist Philosophy.
The thing about 12 Step groups is that what’s shared in the group is reasonably safe (providing its ‘personally emotional’) as nobody can ‘grass’ another person up, because everyone one there is ‘crazy’ anyway.
I dont have much time (bar a few innovators) for Psychiatrists anyway, because of my own experience within the MH system, and my recovery outside of the system.
I dont know much about Donald Trump other than what I see in the media, but I’d be interested to see how much support he gets in the coming election.
It seems very strange to me that everythings shut down. The world has never experienced this kind of thing before – so I’m wondering what its about.
It makes sense to me to genuinely protect all those that are vulnerable from infection – but to allow life to go on as well.
I’ve heard progressive therapists state from their own experience, that nobody ever ‘breaks down’ without justifiable life history reason.
If I hadn’t been able to access ‘basic Psychotherapy’ when I stopped taking ‘Antipsychotics’, I would have had to go back on ‘Antipsychotics’ and Disability Benefit.
In my experience basic inexpensive ‘Psychotherapy’ works and ‘Antipsychotics’ disable.
Psychotherapy (innovators not included) is more or less owned by the DSM.
Hi Dr Philip, nice to see you back on MIA again.
‘Depression Delusion’ by Dr Terry Lynch is one of the best books I ever read.
From Dr Terrys book “SELFHOOD”: –
“PARANOID SCHIZOPHRENIA” RECOVERY STORY
“….Stephen looked terrified, and I asked him why. He replied ‘I’m not sure I can get out of this place alive’. There were only the two of us in my office, and nobody in the waiting room. Objectively, there was no threat to Stephen, but he genuinely felt terrified for his life. He described the raw terror he felt almost constantly….
….I focused on enabling Stephen to progressively raise his level of selfhood. In particular, I worked with him on self-protection and self-generated security, because his lack of these dominated his life, the reason for his fear-filled thinking…
…Stephen was now aware of his own terror and inability to make himself feel safe, whereas previously he was not aware of this and instead was entirely focused on the dangers that lay waiting relentlessly for him everywhere….
….In contrast, like a rabbit caught in headlights, Stephen would previously have become increasingly transfixed by an unfolding scenario outside of himself, that he was actually creating through outward projection of his feeling unsafe…
…This practise had the desired effect. His level of self-protection and self-generated security began to increase, slowly at first, then gathering pace. Stephen made considerable progress in raising his level of selfhood, of which, for him, self-protection and self-generated security were key factors. Because he was doing well, his psychiatrist agreed to reduce his medication slightly, and I subsequently continued the process of gradually reducing Stephen’s medication.
…Stephen has been off all schizophrenia medication for over three years. He lives a full life, goes where he likes, thrives in social situations, and has a level of selfhood higher that at any previous time in his life….”
There’s no need for any Psychiatric Abuse.
Hallucinations and Delusions
If a person can learn to live in Harmony with their Hallucinations (as many do) – the problem doesn’t exist:-
“…When I wrote DIVIDED MINDS (under the name Pamela Wagner) with my twin sister, Carolyn S Spiro, I never dreamed that one day I would be able to write the words : voices don’t bother me any more…”
“Delusions” are generally dependent on “pre occupation” (in the same way “anxiety” is); and if they are “put down” for any length of time they Lose their Power – in the same way as “Emotional Reasoning” does.
If you exchange “SCHIZOPHRENIA” for a “NERVOUS BREAKDOWN” what do you get?
A person suffering a “Nervous Breakdown” will have the same symptoms as “Schizophrenia”, and is unlikely to recover without support.
If a person wants to overcome or cure the Above SYMPTOMS, this can be done through very straightforward inexpensive Psychotherapy; it doesn’t require the handing of a persons life over to the Psychiatric Services.
Information on how to successfully overcome the Above SYMPTOMS can also be found in inexpensive ‘books’.
All of the ABOVE Symptoms are also SYMPTOMS of “Antipsychotic” Withdrawal and Long term “Antipsychotic” Withdrawal, substantiating that “Antipsychotics” cause “PSYCHOSIS”.
The symptoms of ARMS could include
1. Intrusive and irrelevant thoughts:-
This could include 90% of all normal thought.
2. Heightened sensitivity to sounds:
According to the UK Health & Safety Exec., if a person can’t hear a conversation at 1metre distance, then the Background Noise Environment is potentially causing hearing Loss.
3. Being too literal or concrete in thinking:
The interpretation of this, can depend entirely on the Status of the Person ‘doing the thinking’.
4. Many researchers argue that these states could predict the later development of psychosis….
…On stopping “Antipsychotics”, according to Robert Whitaker, a person is likely to suffer from a condition of “High Anxiety” and its how a person deals with this that decides whether they completely recover or not.
..The ABOVE could also be described as SYMPTOMS of:-
1.Sress
2. Black and White thinking.
3. A person with a sense of humour
…for me when I stopped ‘Medications’ and was ‘pre occupied’; I had to stop ‘pre occupying’, and ‘sit with my feelings’ until my Anxiety subsided; – and then ‘there was No Problem’.
Thank you Dr Williams.
It actually is a Holocaust!
Sorry Magdalene,
It’s not that important!
Thank You Magdalene,
On the Subject of “Eckhart Tolles ‘wisdom’ dissolving the DSM …”
Is it possible to be “deluded”, “anxious”, “angry”, “catastrophic”, or “depressed”, without compulsive thought?
Or is it that simple?
“Medications” are highly dependency forming and a lot of the time near enough impossible to come off.
To quote (I believe Alan Frances) “symptoms” that don’t create problems are irrelevant.
In my experience any medication “that works for mental illness” is likely to physically disable a person. There are also 100 different things that can affect anyone’s involvement in a workplace other than “mental illness”.
I think it is scientifically accepted that ‘Antidepressants’ cause suicide and homicide in a (so called) small percentage of people that consume them.
“….only reason it wouldn’t is if I had developed a different neurological problem during treatment that was unrelated to TMS…” they’ve got their ‘lines’ prepared.
There’s a tendency to think with Mindfulness and Mc Mindfulness that the only problem is inside in a person’s head, but in Contradiction the Real World Actually Does Exist.
People often recommend trusting Doctors in terms of antidepressant consumption, suitability, benefits, side effects, withdrawal syndrome etc., BUT does the doctor have a clue??
It looks like the Doctor has NOT got a clue!
(…and how could they have?)
Steve,
That’s my experience.
Auditory Hallucinations
Most fully qualified MH Clinicians in the UK and Ireland that I have come across, cannot tell the difference between:-
1. An Auditory Hallucination (outside the head)
and
2. Normal Social Thought (inside the head)
“..Fluphenazine came into use in 1959.[6] The injectable form is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines, the safest and most effective medicines needed in a health system.[..”
4 out of every 10 people on this drug attempt suicide. Doctors and Researchers consider it acceptable to “bury” these suicides and to attempt to “bury” those that expose the dangers.
“….schizophrenia, outcomes – in terms of rates of hospitalisation and homelessness, levels of distress and suicide, and overall wellbeing…”
There’s quite a lot of hidden recovery from “schizophrenia” in the UK – people that drop out of the MH system, enter into the “main frame” and remain consistently well. I know a lot of people like this and I believe Dr Joanna Moncrieff has written about this phenomenon.
Schizophrenia is supposed to be a long-term chronic disorder worse than paraplegia and Full Recovery – presents a problem.
Even though there is no compulsary ‘medication’ consumption in Ireland a lot of people are put on long-term Injections and never recover – as a result.
Irelands largest export is Pharmaceuticals and some people pay for this with their lives.
We’ve had “lock down” in the UK for the last few weeks, with 24hr Corona Virus News Saturation. Then suddenly Care Homes get mentioned, and it’s reported that deaths of 4,000 people have not been recorded in the official figures…
..What’s the point in Having a “Lock down” if about 30% of people dying are trapped in “Death Machines”.
… not just in the UK
I don’t blame you. The system is extremely convincing. I’m even almost taken in myself when I watch the ‘caring promotions’ on television.
Magdalene,
You’re a great writer yourself. I’m going to look out for both of these books.
As regards ‘Attachment Theory’ I can remember seeing the picture of the little monkey in a cage with its dummy mothers and I thought it was very cruel. I’m concious of ‘Attachment’ myself, but in a ‘Buddhist theory context’ which has a totally different meaning.
I believe this man could completely Dissolve the DSM with a tiny pamphlet from his own wisdom.
You have definitely opened my eyes in this article to a few things that I knew existed but hadn’t investigated due to the lack of available information.
‘Emotionally Insecure’ Parent is a term I’ll remember.
The psychologists and professionals seem to think that they’re experts on human nature, but I’m not so sure about that!
Kawthar Alli,
From what I can see the Spiritual Interpretation you describe is likely to work.
There’s no real blame in the Muslim approach which makes everything a lot easier – in terms of recovery. Plus there’s an expectation that a person will completely recover.
A lot of the time myself, I try to depend on intuition and once I’m in Grace I can trust this guidance. But when I’m in fear my thinking is of no value to me.
(I believe Nigeria has probably the highest “Schizophrenic” Full Recovery Rate in the World).
The only thing I can say, is that IF the Country wants to move back into Full Production regardless of the Corona Virus and the amount of people that ‘Might / or Might Not’ DIE as a result – is that there is an effective International PRECEDENT in Covering Up deaths in Mental Health, and this could be UTILIZED.
We’ve already seen a bit of this in the UK with thousands of people dying in Care Homes and not being accounted for.
It seems like a lot of indigeneous people would sooner be dead than live a “western life”. And that they often kill themselves prematurely to avoid this.
It makes sense in the ‘real world’, that any substance that makes a person feel better, will eventually make them feel worse.
It’s the same for the alcoholic, eventually the alcohol ‘stops working’.
The only people that recover from “Schzophrenia” are those people that Reject Psychiatry and the Bio Medical Disease model of “Schizophrenia”.
Am I right or am I wrong?
On Mad In America we have examples of these recovered people that have gone on to become Psychologists and Psychiatrists.
A person doesn’t have to suffer from ‘Schizophrenia’ to become ‘Psychotic’ as a result of stopping ‘medication’. This can happen to any person.
Martin84
I attempted to Kill myself several times while on ‘Medication’, but never before starting ‘Medication’, or after successfully stopping ‘Medication’.
I recovered as a result of stopping ‘Medication’, but if I wasn’t able to do this successfully (as I initially wasn’t), I would still be judged to be ‘Chronically Schizophrenic’ (…or Dead).
But even after carefully stopping strong ‘medications’ I still suffered from a ‘Long-Term High Anxiety’ condition that I had never suffered from prior to starting ‘medication’.
Thankfully, I learnt how to survive this terrible condition in a somewhat ‘similar manner’ to what Eckart Tolle eloquently describes, in ‘The Power of Now’.
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him
SICKNESS ORIENTATION
“..The World Health Organisation has described schizophrenia as a “leading cause of disability, and more disabling that paraplegia or blindness in 18-35 year olds….”
“….Those interviewed included people with a wide-range of diagnosis, including schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder and depression….”
Thank You Kawthar Alli,
This makes complete sense to me:-
“…The last theme highlighted the role of Islamic psychology and spirituality in exploring the subjective meaning of Jinn. According to Islamic psychology, humans are spiritual beings that have an innate divine guidance called fitrah and can receive spiritual inspiration through the Ruh (soul), which has the ability to transform the self.9 However, this can become blocked due to being distracted by the worldly life and due to mental distress, which can lead to a loss of purpose. Skinner⁹ stated that the aim of Islamic psychology in therapy is to help the client open parts of themselves (especially their spiritual heart) that may have become closed off from consciousness, and reconnect to God. This highlights that Muslim therapists working with Muslims have the advantage of being able to go beyond the unconscious and delve into the spiritual self of the client. This synchronicity is likely to enhance the therapeutic relationship…”
“…For several weeks now, I have been waking in the night with feelings of intense anxiety. I constantly monitor myself for symptoms of a possibly fatal illness. I can’t concentrate very well, and my usual ways of coping don’t seem to be working. I feel a bit safer inside my house but I also feel trapped….”
I know what you mean by this, I’ve experienced feelings like this myself, but not this time over the Corona Virus!
Most people I mix with are responsible, but don’t seem too upset, and the other people I mix with are speculative it’s a “conspiracy”. This lock down though, could in the long term “materially” change a lot of ordinary people’s lives, for the worse.
Hi O.O.
I don’t judge you at all, and I think your contribution is very worthwhile.
It’s only comparatively recently that I have come to view “psychiatry” as Fraud – while I was drug dependant I believed in it.
It sounds like a potentially very threatening environment though.
In Ireland (as far as I know) psychiatric drugs cannot be forced on a person outside of hospital, so if someone remains legal they can avoid drugging. However the “medications” are often in injection form, and if a person stops taking them the reult is often ‘rebound insanity’.
Hi Caroline,
Psychiatric Drugs are certainly not good for a person’s health and I thought I would never get off them, but I did.
I’m enjoying the isolation of the Corona Virus at the moment, I’m trying to get back into running in the park, and the temperature is 25 degrees Celsius today in London.
I know lots of people who redesigned their lives after
long breaks and very long breaks and in advancing years.
Even today I find the ignorance around psychiatric drugs, “diagnosis” and “Mental Health” really frustrating.
Thanks for the great Article.
I believe medical treatment in the US is mostly private and all people without the economic resources are not going to get very good care.
Thanks for the informative article Lucy,
I believe I’ve read articles from John Crace in the Guardian, and watched him speak at a Maudsley Debate:
“…..I wake up early and for a brief nanosecond all is well with the world. Then my mind turns to….the reality of the coronavirus pandemic. Anxiety electrifies me. It’s not just a sense of existential dread, …”
Me:
I wake up early most mornings, and expect to wake “anxious”. I focus on my body and eventually the anxiety does reduce. Half an hour later I can’t even clearly picture what I had been “terrified” about, BUT if I was to get into it at the time, I know it would become very real.
I found my solutions that seem to consistently work, outside the official and funded system. I don’t know what life is like for anyone else, but I think a lot of people might have experienced similar to me. I’m not a great Fan of “Mental Illness” either.
I didn’t worry too much about the virus initially, until a medical friend of mine told me that the serious stages can be very uncomfortable. My heart goes out to anyone in this dreadful position.
SCHIZOPHRENIA FRAUD
” Imagine if you had schizophrenia—that concern or suspicion could turn into frank paranoia.”
In my case it’s turned into “frank boredom”.
I was diagnosed as the “worst Schizophrenic in Ireland” – until I stopped taking my ‘medication’.
And after 30 years of complete recovery I caught my GP in London claiming for me as a sick person – even though I hadn’t cost a penny in 30 years!
“….managing anxiety about situations we don’t control…”
A friend of mine said “…people can’t cope with powerlessness…”
Poor Boris Johnson (UK Prime Minister) is now in Hospital Intensive Care struggling with the Corona Virus:-
When Dr Christiaan Bernard first began heart transplants many years ago, I heard a story about some boys from another school, regarding a heart transplant trial they claimed they carried out on two mice (that they managed to catch).
According to the boys, they removed both hearts from both mice and exchanged them. And the result was that one mouse died on the spot, but the other mouse leapt to its feet and ran off. Nobody believed them, but it was a good story!
Tich Nich Han says that Christians hope to find heaven in the next life, but Buddhists can find great happiness in this life.
There is no such thing as Schizophrenia.
Example:- 2nd Generation Afro Caribbean man nearly 10 times more likely than white Uk man to be diagnosed with Schizophrenia.
The last MH doctor I had contact with in Ireland many years ago , now a psychiatrist in the UK, recently, (following a visit), reformulated my ‘MH Diagnosis’ to a ‘Misdiagnosis’, which I believe would be appropriate, as my MH recovery was genuinely due to stopping MH treatment.
According to UK MH statistics, a 2nd Generation Caribbean man is about 10 times more likely to be diagnosed as ‘Schizophrenic’ in the UK than a generic white man – which CANNOT be realistic.
But very few ‘diagnosed’ people ever manage to break free from the system. Most ‘diagnosed/misdiagnosed people’ eventually become chronically ‘schizophrenic’, and die in middle age.
Because there’s a big cover up job.
GPs were prescribing these drugs in good faith (without full relevant information). If the drugs go down then the GPs go down as well.
I believe SSRI s (contrary to other drugs) were promoted as safe during pregnancy when there was no evidence to support that they were, and that ‘depression’ was promoted as a ‘dangerous illness’ when most of the time its not.
There are lots of young people around that mightnt be disabled with “autism”, but are not 100% – which matches up with the common use of antidepressants in the past 20 years.
Hi Laurel,
Congratulations and thanks for the article, (I’ll study it carefully).
I suffered ‘very high anxiety’ when I tried to come off ‘antipsychotic’ medication suitable for “schizophrenia”.
I was okay refusing ‘antipsychotics’ at the beginning (of my psychiatric career in 1980), but when I tried to come off them some years later in 1984 – I was incapable.This is why I believe that ‘antipsychotics’ cause “schizophrenia”.
But I was able to stop taking antipsychotics at a disabling level, and very gradually reduce from there.
‘High Anxiety’ though remained a problem:- I was plagued by “circular catastrophic never ending preoccupations”.
What I found through trial and error was that, if I was able put the ‘preoccupations’ down:- I’d eventually come out onto the other side, and then my “head” would (magically) be able to deal with whatever had been “bugging me”.
Buddhism has spiritual techniques that work similarly – ‘Detachment’ leads to ‘Equanamity’.
Diet and exercise and meditation, are thankfully not too difficult for me.
Experts say that when the “Brain” is exposed to “antipsychotics” – it tries to come back to normal; and to do this the dopamine receptors become more sensitive. So when the “antipsychotics” (that block dopamine) are removed – the person can go “chemically” mad.
I completely came off all medications many years ago, and my Anxiety levels are also now very low – most of the time.
With birth control and advanced technology, there is no such thing as a genuine shortage of resources. Theres more than enough to go around (- even enough for some people to have more).
Thanks Will,
It needs to be said that this Epidemic could result in a culling of vulnerable people. Those Labelled “mentally Ill”are generally in poorer health (as people at the most discriminated level generally are) plus the fact that they are likely to get the poorest standard medical treatment.
[Even though I’ve been well for the past 30 years; in the last few years I have come across some diabolical “attempted taking advantage of”; which I have been prepared to challenge].
The native Americans said that they didn’t like the white people because they looked needy all the time and they treated each other badly and that they thought the white people were MAD. The Native Americans also said that nobody could OWN the land – they couldn’t.
The situation now is that one group of people believe they should own everything, even when there is more than ENOUGH for everyone, especially with the advances in the TECHNOLOGY of Supply and Production.
There is NOW no shortage whatsoever, in Resources.
I’ve got enough toilet paper to last me a few more days, but I don’t know what’s going to happen after.
Thank you Paula,
“..In the United States and other countries that have a military, there is often a great deal of talk about supporting veterans, but way too often, research aimed at learning what will be helpful is misguided and can even be harmful…” …very harmful!
I hope I’m not too far off topic!
I suffered from neuroleptic withdrawal “PTSD”; and It often took the form of “Anxiety” or “High Anxiety”.
This type of Advice from Eckhart Tolle really works:-
“…I have a long-standing and deep curiosity about the phenomenon of psychosis…”
What would you describe as psychosis?
Why don’t pharmaceutical companies just tax Americans, instead of poisoning them?
What is the rationale for the fact that there’s so much more of it going on now?
The rationale might be that there are a lot more people around than are needed and a long-term mentally disabled person doesn’t need to be provided with a non job to keep them busy.
“…The majority of people taking antidepressant medications have never had major depressive disorder…” I’d say that, that’s about right.
These people run the risk of developing serious iatrogenic damage and disability. They could very well become chemically psychiatric as a result of following Medical Advice.
The symptoms of street drugs can match “schizophrenia”, and the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal or alcoholism can match “schizophrenia”. But these situations can be very successfully and quickly dealt with in 12 Step Programs – unless “other parties” want to capitalise.
‘Antipsychotics’ can definitely create positive symptoms of Insanity (Akathisia). The negative symptoms of “schizophrenia” are equivalent to ‘complete demotivation’ – what ‘antipsychotics’ are designed to create.
I notice on inspection of Patient Information Leaflets for SSRIs like Lexapro and Prozac that the information is very vague and confusing.
Patient Information Leaflets.
If the Patient Information Leaflets clearly described Akathisia, or Serotonin Syndrome, or Tardive Dyskinesia – then the consumer would know what to ‘Watch Out For’. But they don’t:- they ‘go around in circles’ in such a way as to ‘successfully mislead’.
And this has resulted in an increase in USA health and life expectancy?
What’s happened to the profession of “Psychology”.
Why are they “lying down” when it’s not in their interest?
With “Schizophrenia” – the only Genuine Recoveries that have have come about, have been through “Psychology”, and other non pharmaceutical approaches.
My good luck was that I could tell when I was in a state of Acute Akathisia. Each time the Acute Akathisia followed a medication introduction, medication change or a medication discontinuation.
Though expressing this did not make me popular.
I was looking through Kanye Wests biography as he has been topical recently, and I noticed a lot was made of his brief (as described) “Psychosis”, which I thought was a bit ‘over the top’ considering his artistic background.
Seemingly he takes an SSRI which is a drug that is more than capable of causing “psychotic appearing” behaviour (in a minority of people). I find it strange that this does not seem to have been taken into account.
But maybe it wouldn’t be the thing to do.
Susan,
I agree with you, and I wish I could describe things in such articulate terms.
Professor Gotzsche,
BBC News – German police arrest man over high-speed rail tampering
When this man ‘messed around with the tracks’ he was arrested for Attempted Murder – and rightfully so.
There’s nothing funny about doctors playing around with pharmaceuticals and people’s lives.
Thanks for this contribution Will and Rachel.
I can identify with your disappointment at College. I felt the same way about the potential of Psychology when I was young. But Practical Psychology worked for me, when I was coming off ‘antipsychotics’ and suffering from terrible Anxiety.
In this (so called) Study UK born Afro Caribbeans are nearly 10 times more likely to ‘suffer’ from “Schizophrenia” than a UK traditional person. This can’t be realistic:-
I know that Psychiatric Drugs cause Disability and Illness and that coming off psychiatric drugs Can be very difficult, and that Doctors in Mental Health tell lies all the time – and I can prove this:-
SCHIZOPHRENIA:- Disabling Anxiety is usually the problem here, when “medication” is halted. But its possible to see this as a type of “transference”, and to reduce it by 90%.
DEPRESSION:- Life can be full of stress and unhappiness, and ‘mental illness’ goes some way in describing this.
BIPOLAR:- When unhappiness burns itself out, an extreme happiness can temporarily take over.
ADHD:- The clients are completely normal
BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER:- This is a scam.
But look at how corrupt Doctors are in MH in the UK, and how corrupt the UK General Medical Council is:-
“Over 95% of all SMI cases were perfectly sane until ….”
“Judges” have a tendency to ‘believe’ doctors, even though psychiatric ‘medications’ have been proven to cause – even homicidal and familicidal lunacy.
As far as I can see Buddhism has a lot of merit attached to it and can definitely increase happiness in life. Rufus May Doctor of Psychology in the UK (and ‘recovered person’) uses Buddhist techniques with success in his “schizophrenic curing” Work.
I don’t have opinions on Scientology because I don’t know what it is.
Removed for moderation.
‘Why don’t you want to take your medication?’
This a complete dead end question.
Psychiatry often double speaks completely normal behaviour and I notice other official people have a tendency to back this up.
I was raised a Catholic in Ireland in the 1960s and I don’t have strong opinions on Catholicism but if someone in Irish society today had strong opinions (usually “anti”) – It would be considered very normal.
Lots of people seem to have strong opinions on Scientology – which which is also usually considered to be normal.
Generally speaking Buddhist spokespeople like Richard Gere are considered normal – even though they might be very “preoccupied” with Buddhism.
GPs ‘now’ prescribe these drugs so they’re bought into responsibility with Psychiatry for outcomes, even though they mostly were not informed of the capacity of the drugs.
If the drugs go down then GPs go down.
It looks to me like things are opening up a bit in the UK (and Ireland) regarding the problems with “antidepressants”
BBC News – ‘My anti-depressant withdrawal was worse than depression’
I don’t think the BBC would represent this type of article, even a year ago.
I think the momentum is due to patient and persistent human rights campaigning.
Unfortunately sticking to their guns means killing children; when these children could ultimately overcome their gloom.
I think I’m a good example of someone who can reliably “say” that “antipsychotics” cause “Schizophrenia” as the circumstances surrounding my Original (1980) Diagnosis were quite odd, the Formulation was odd, and the History was factually inaccurate.
The original UK (Diagnosis Formulation) Doctor “committed suicide” around 2000, and the original Irish (Diagnosis Formulation) Doctor was barred from practising medicine within 6 months of this “suicide”.
I ended up in hospital several times (1983/84) when I attempted to discontinue “antipsychotics” and was more seriously diagnosed each time.
The prescribed depot “medication” had been causing extrapyrammidal disability, and when I stopped taking it, I was able to return to normal work and a normal longterm life (1984 – 2020).
I can describe the psychological means with which I was able to deal with ‘drug withdrawal syndrome’ when I came off “antipsychotics” – which was similar to a Step No 3, in a 12 Step Fellowship.
I don’t believe in “Schizophrenia”. I don’t believe drugs like Cannibas cause “Schizophrenia” – they might cause ‘fuzzy thinking’, which usually abates with discontinuation.
Dear Dr Peter,
Its too big a scam to be allowed to collapse and there’s lots and lots of money changing hands. At this stage we’d need to Prosecute entire National Medical Councils and I don’t know if this would be likely to happen.
We don’t compulsararily trust Priests in Ireland, and we need to take the same approach towards Doctors (for common sense reasons).
“….psychiatrists are the only people in the state who can have anyone locked up without their having committed a crime and can do so with impunity…”
And sometimes without evidence.
CoronaVirus + Social Justice
I have viewed a very informative corona virus, Joe Rogan interview, featuring epidemology expert Michael Osterholm
Who stated that in China most older men 70 yrs + smoked, and those infected with the Corona Virus had a 10% chance of dying; while most older infected (non smoking) Chinese women had a much lower 2 % chance of dying.
Michael Osterholm stated that In the USA smoking wouldn’t be a great problem; but OBESITY affecting 40 yr + males would present serious problems, affecting the death rate.
According to the todays Sunday Express, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has ordered all 70 yr + people to stay at home, but has NOT placed a similar enforcement order on middleaged OBESE men.
..and doctors are covering up.
But unfortunately in Ireland there are quite a few people already locked up in the Central Mental Hospital for “dangerously acting out” on “antidepressants”..
…evidence of this Suppression is that the Psychiatric Drug Treatment is NOT presented by the Defence as the most likely cause for the Defendants Behaviour.
AKATHISIA
[..It is Medical Fact that Psychiatric Drugs can drive Normal People MAD enough to Kill their Loved Ones..]
“Antipsychotics” themselves cause “Schizophrenia”, I “relapsed” several times when I was given permission to come off them abruptly.
But when I tapered very carefully, I was able to make full Recovery from “Schizophrenia”.
The drugs can drive people MAD but people are not being adequately warned.
When the drugs cause suicide – “..it’s just too bad..”
and when the drugs cause homicide
“..the person is charged with murder..”
I’m not all that expert on “Depression” but “Anxiety” is a good one for me. Anxiety is also I believe quite close to depression.
Anxiety is not an illness. Anxiety responds to straight forward psychological approaches that can be accessed organically (i.e. without professional contact). And what works for Normal Anxiety also works for Extreme Anxiety.
“Depression is the same as Diabetes” is in my opinion just “Silly Talk”.
I thought “Mental Illness” was a figure of speech, until I noticed medical staff with very serious and dedicated expressions on their faces promoting it as true. God help us!
Italians are naturally a very soft hearted people, as are Americans.
Thanks Noel,
There is Good News.
I know lots and lots of people that have experienced feral upbringings and extreme hardship that have completely recovered with the support of Independent Self Help Groups.
One reason is because these drugs can drive some people completely MAD.
BBC News – ‘My anti-depressant withdrawal was worse than depression’
If a person earns a “Good Living” from “Psychosis”, then anything can be “Psychosis”.
Autism and not exactly Autism.
I’m just reading the rest of the article now – and some of it is very sad!
It’s good to see you writing on MIA again!
Thank you Noel,
This article brings my history home to me. I was going around the place under the influence of compulsive anxiety practically all the time. But thankfully it’s not like that at all now.
The anxiety was drug withdrawal induced and therefore quite irrational to any “counsellor”. I learned my own ways of coping (which worked).
As a Catholic I never expected to be happy, so life is in a sense a bonus.
“…. I am also grieving the life I will never have, isolation and poverty…”
I hope not! I hope your life turns out very well.
There was a time when a graduate education guaranteed a person a good income. Does this still apply today?
Rachel777,
We know the score:- More people recovered before the arrival of medication than after the arrival of medication; and more people moved back to independence; and life expectancy was more or less the same as average.
Frank,
Most people that earn a good living do it through funny handshakes, there’s not much difference between a welfare check and the average wage packet.
In the UK most of the welfare administrators, are on supportive welfare themselves.
It’s only common sense! This is where the whole thing should be going!
When something like this happens in Ireland, not once is Akathisia mentioned.
According to “Mental Health”, if you suffer from “Bipolar” – there is no cure.
I got my Practical Psychology ‘organically’:-
Dr Wayne W Dyer (author of ‘Your Erroneous Zones’) was one of the innovators I studied.
Its very important as well, that Psychologists don’t “milk” the system at the expense of the “sufferer”.
Hi Alex
“….the most direct and powerful condemnation of psychiatry and psychatirsts that I’ve ever seen coming from within the industry. …”
It’s the only way to do it!
“Deteriorate” is probably a good word.
According to Dr David Healys Historical Research 1896 to1996 at North Wales: A hundred plus, years before the ‘arrival of medication’ a ‘Schizophrenic person’ was NOT more likely than the average person, to take their own life. But that a ‘Present Day Schizophrenic Person’ ‘consuming medication’ is about 20 TIMES more likely than the average person, to take their own life.
Every hospitalization I experienced at Galway, Southern Ireland (bar the first) between 1980 and 1984 was a ‘suicidal event’ for me. But after (very carefully) coming off strong psychiatric drugs in 1984, I experienced no more hospitalizations; no more ‘Suicidal Events’; and no more Disability.
In my estimation Dr David Healys Historical ‘Morbidity and Mortality’ Research and Dr Joanna Moncrieffs Historical ‘Recovery’ Research combined, are Scientifically Groundbreaking.
The combined Historical Scientific Research clearly demonstrates that ‘Psychiatric Drugs’ administered in ‘UK Psychiatry Today’ are NOT helping ‘Patients’, but Disabling and (Mercy) Killing them.
What this Valuable Research Article seems to support is that more people recovered from ‘Schizophrenia’ before ‘medication arrived’ than after.
cidrols,
You have it in one. “…that MEDICATIONS ARE MORE LIKELY EXACERBATING THE PROBLEMS OF TODAY!..”
PRACTICAL PSYCHOLOGY
The way I DEALT with my ‘antipsychotic’ withdrawal “HIGH ANXIETY” was to FOCUS on how my BODY felt, and NOT on my THINKING.
WHEN my Anxiety SOFTENED, there was NO PROBLEM; and I KNEW what TO DO.
SITTING WITH FEELINGS is NOT EASY – BUT IT WORKS.
.
.
Thank You Dr Joanna, this article is very worthwhile.
In this Study I believe 40% of the dose reduction or discontinuation group made ‘Recovery’, and 17% of the Maintenance dose group made ‘Recovery’.
I made Recovery in 1984 as a result of carefully withdrawing from depot medication (with the help of practical psychology). Dr David Healy was there at the time.
“…He believes that all diagnoses of schizophrenia are “misdiagnoses”.
“Schizophrenia doesn’t tell you anything meaningful about the cause of people’s problems, the content of their experiences or their outcome – the three things that a diagnosis should do. It’s a ragbag category. It needs to be scrapped.
I had a psychotic episode; unconscious material was coming up which was meaningful and related to my emotional past. Madness is a creative response to pain.”…”
No. The Western Ego needs to be extincted.
Hi Ron, This is a great topic. You explain the subject very clearly.
It seems to me that there are mostly two types of ‘delusions’: fear based, or ambition based.
I can understand a person thinking people are watching them or have planted microchips in their brains, if they have been on the receiving end of extreme intrusion. But I notice people can be ‘pathologically’ intrusive anyway, even as groups.
A friend of mine (who works in Mental Health) told me that that sometimes neighbours harass people to such an extent, that they only leave their houses at night.
I see ‘delusions’ as ’emotional reasoning’ – when my head is away from an idea, and I look at it again, I see it ‘rationally’. I have to do this all the time.
This Jordan Peterson Utube video is a departure on the antidepressants – it’s about a change in diet bringing miraculous results.
I think the very unfortunate situation Jordan Peterson is in, can easily be compared to ‘the end of the line situation’ for any person exposed to Psychiatric Drug Dependency Treatment.
If it wasn’t for his ‘position in life’ he mightn’t still be alive. …
…Or he might even be diagnosed now as “Schizophrenic”.
Anxiety Withdrawal was my main problem, and Will Halls advice on this is much the same as Dr Rufus Mays. And it works.
If you take your meds you remain psychiatric. But coming off the meds is difficult.
…”Borderline Personality Disorder,” “Schizophrenia,” and “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”…”
Every person I have ever met with “Borderline Personality Disorder,” has been a really decent person – with anything but a disorder.
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” I’ve got a friend and he’s got 6 children and he maintains that even the Dalai Lama would find looking after 6 children difficult. Normal children have a lot of energy.
I support the idea that drugs make people sick. I used to support Psychology (because I had good experiences) but I realise now that this system can be abused as well.
The whole Idea about heavy metal I thought, was to go ‘crazy’!
THERES NO SUCH THING AS LEGITIMATE “MENTAL HEALTH DIAGNOSIS” IN THE UK:- AS PER GMC
Even though there is no Death Sentence in Western Europe – A person can be literally killed in Psychiatry.
With any other ‘medicine’ the evidence of illness can be seen on the chart, and can’t be played with. But with Psychiatry a ‘doctor’ can invent anything they want, and this will be backed up by the next ‘doctor’.
“..so that we can invest our money in curing therapies…” even the most basic Psychotherapeutic principles can cure the so called “major mental illnesses”.
Psychiatric Drugs are profoundly disabling – even, for people that have been misdiagnosed or were not mentally ill to begin with.
Exposure to Psychiatric Drugs can cause ‘Mental Illness’ even in well people, through the creation of changes to the brain.
“Schizophrenia” is a Serious, Long Term Disabling Disorder.
“Schizophrenia” was a Serious Long Term Disabling Disorder for me for about 5 years, until I carefully stopped medical treatments “suitable ” for “Schizophrenia”.
Most people in the Western World have eating problems. Most people in the Western World consume food that will eventually kill them.
It was Hitler himself (I believe), who put an end to the Psychiatric Killings.
I love his lectures as well!
“…He used to defend antidepressants, so I hope he comes with a different perspective after this event….”
He might very well.
My impression in the UK is that “the mooted right wing Newspaper”, the “Daily Mail” is very fair in its representation of “Mental Health Treatments”.
Hi,
I don’t believe ‘antipsychotics’ make people safer, I believe on balance that Psychiatric Drugs make Society a lot more unsafe.
Hi registeredforthissite,
“…People with horrible personalities who unwarrantedly hurt people who have done no wrong to them, who consistently lie etc..”
I’ve witnessed some dreadful game playing within the Mental Health System in the UK, and the total incapacity of any complaint system, and I have only been on the Mental Health periphery. I’ve witnessed doctors in telling outright lies and covering up for other bent doctors.
But I also have a very tricky (though very dated) history, and this might be why I’m coming across this type of medical uselessness.
My natural tendency is to defend myself and I have been doing this to the best of my ability and resources.
You have it in one!
Apologies:- for wrongly spelling the UK Researchers Name, (above):- It is Professor Martin Knapp of the LSE ; NOT Professor Robert Knappe
OVERCOMING ‘SCHIZOPHRENIA’ THROUGH COMING OFF ‘ANTIPSYCHOTIC’ MEDICATION
‘ANTI PSYCHOTIC’ & DISABLED
I was Disabled in Ireland between 1980 and 1984 while I co operated with Psychiatric Drug Treatments. When I consistently complained about the problems with the treatments, I was eventually offered the option of abrupt (neuroleptic/antipsychotic depot injection), discontinuation.
SUICIDAL HOSPITALIZATIONS
Between December 1983 and April 1984 I experienced 4 hospitalizations one Suicide Attempt and one almost Suicide Attempt.
SEVERE DIAGNOSIS
By April 1984 my Diagnosis was one of very Severe and Chronic Schizophrenia.
VERY CAREFUL DRUG TAPER
After this, I decided to Taper very carefully from the
(‘Antipsychotic’) injection, with oral medication.
INDEPENDENCE
With reductions in ‘medication’, I was no longer disabled and was able to came off ‘disability payments’, and move into independence.
DRUG WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME
I suffered from “Neuroleptic Withdrawal High Anxiety”, and I would have fallen back into the ‘hands of Psychiatry’, if I hadn’t found effective ways of dealing with it.
REALISATION
At this time I had a type of Realisation. I was able to recognise that I was suffering from a High Anxiety problem and figure out what to do about it. And this Approach has worked for me in the Long Term.
‘HIGH ANXIETY’ PROBLEM & SOLUTION
1. When I was overwhelmed with High Anxiety
– I wasn’t able ‘to think my way out’.
2. If I could stop trying ‘to think my way out’
– the High Anxiety would eventually balance off.
3. When the High Anxiety balanced off
– I was OK, and I knew what to do.
4. When the High Anxiety returned
– From past experience I knew how to deal with it.
RECOVERY
I have not claimed Mental Health Disability Benefit nor been admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital since 1984; and have not consumed any Psychiatric ‘medication’ in many many years.
It also took many years to adapt to the Withdrawal Anxiety.
AKATHISIA
“…The worst symptom for dad was akathisia. Akathisia is an absolutely god awful condition where the person feels an incredible, irresistible restlessness, and an inability to sit still. It was so severe he was suicidal…”
.
‘Anti Psychotics’ are extremely disabling.
POTENTIAL SAVING TO TAXPAYER
The saving to the Taxpayer of full Recovery throughout a person’s working life can be calculated at about £3 million (per recovered person)*.
*Professor Robert Knappe of the LSE has previously calculated the cost of SMI/per person/per year/to the taxpayer at £65,000.
*(£65,000 × 45 years of non disability equals about £3 Million).
….It’s Deadly Medicines & Organised Crime.
Steve
It’s the “Amygdala”. Once the Amygdala is activated ‘the worst thing is going to happen’ – for anyone.
“High Anxiety” is what drives people back on to neuroleptics when they try to withdraw.
The High Anxiety is Automatic, and if it’s Automatic it’s a symptom of Withdrawal.
The terrors of Neuroleptic Withdrawal were worse for me, than any previous Anxieties I had ever experienced.
If you look at how terrible this mans experience is, you can see how Ill Equipped the best Western Medicine is in the area of psychiatric drug withdrawal.
I underwent my ‘disaster’ in the 1980s in Galway Southern Ireland. Where I nearly died (more than once) in the process of attempting to withdraw from psychiatric drugs.
I was able to come off Neuroleptic medication, but I had to do this extremely slowly over a number of years (not abruptly in one go).
I also had to learn to psychologically adapt to coming off the drugs, because my brain didn’t come back the same.
I support your view that you’re being sabotaged, medicine is supposed to support humanity not create human misery.
SF Ireland
After the Irish Election I don’t know where Sinn Feinn who came out strongest stand, on ‘Mental Health Equality’ – they are strong on Housing, Social Issues and the Health System.
At the moment they’re in talks with the Greens and others looking to form a coalition.
These drugs are rapacious creditors they take a lot more than they give. ‘Psychiatry’ is all about double speak.
This is what’s needed:-
“….Of greater importance is what the centre calls “mindcrafting” – a blend of meditation, counselling and Jungian psychoanalysis. Its aim is to rebuild the patient’s self-esteem and give them the “strength of mind to keep one step ahead of others in the context of globalisation, with its rapid development of information technology and the rule of money and stress.”…”
“…It’s been noted in other studies that married people – of all sexualities – are less likely to die by suicide..” I think there might be exceptions.
‘..The medication almost killed my dad..’ ,
I believe her.
Thanks Bob,
Bonnys Obituary is not a time for grievance.
I completely support the idea of ‘the non existence of schizophrenia’ as a medical illness. The only people that genuinely recover, do this through non medical means.
Your Article refers to Dr David Healys Study suggesting a 20 fold increase in ‘Schizophrenic Suicide’ with the introduction of strong psychiatric drugs.
You also mention an overall increase in Suicide with an increase in Psychiatric medicine in Society:-
At the moment in Ireland there is a Epidemic of Suicide/Homicide/Familicide being carried out by Completely Normal People taking Psychiatric Drugs as an aid to coping with Modern Day Life Stress.
To make Society safer surely these drugs should be taken off the market.
The anxiety does ring a bell. I was talking to a friend of mine (a doctor) about Psychiatric drugs causing mental illness and he was cynical.
And then he related his own experience to me with a skin medication (most Irish people are prone to skin problems), which made him very anxious, but he said it was the chance he took, as it is well known that certain skin medications can cause High Anxiety.
This is you:
‘….Laura McCabe
A Pennsylvania native, Laura holds a BS degree in Business from Virginia Tech. She’s always had a passion for business, investing in the stock market and becoming the owner of a small fashion accessory business while still a teenager. Among other things, she has worked for four Pennsylvania government agencies and been employed as an analyst and manager in the consumer packaged goods industry…’
“….despair, high anxiety, distractibility, demoralization, the experience of hearing voices, a strong individuality, or one or another of countless more—…”
I suffered from some but not all of these symptoms as a direct Result of Psychiatry; and it took me a long time to overcome them!
I did find some philosophies effective in my struggle for peace. For example, I was able to identify my ‘High Anxiety’ as ’emotional reasoning’ – and figure out ways to reduce it.
‘….75% of people hate their jobs..’ – this is probably true, (though I have enjoyed most of the jobs I’ve done).
The Treatments cause Suicide and Homicide.
CULTURE OF DENIAL
Culture of “denial” allowed breast surgeon to do unnecessary operations on hundreds of women, inquiry finds
It’s not surprising to me that Carl Rogers would avoid Diagnosis – because the only way to help someone in counselling is to concentrate on what they need help with.
I think ‘Diagnosis’ is obstructive.
“….I was told I would have to take mind-numbing Thorazine-like drugs for the rest of my life…”
Mental Health Diagnosis is mostly a play on words, and the idea that psychiatric drugs are medicine is rubbish. But if a person says this, they can become very unpopular.
If maybe 15% of the population are taking SSRI s, would Hospital Emergency Staff know anything about AKATHISIA??
“…The mother who is alleged to have murdered her three children last week presented to Tallaght hospital on the day before with suicidal thoughts and was sent home. Mental Health services in Ireland are grossly sub standard, will you make it a #GE2020 issue on the doorstep???…”
Exactly what I did 36 years ago complaining of being suicidal as a result of Adverse Drug Reaction to recent drug exposure, and WAS admitted by the Charge Nurse (who overrode orders).
My experience was that I nearly went MAD trying to come off neuroleptics, it took me years to come to a position of balance.
I don’t think there is such a thing as a genuine illness of ‘Schizophrenia’.
“…According to a NICE draft guidance (PDF), J&J’s own economic model suggests an average price of about £10,550 ($13,720) per course for Spravato before any discount…”
Someone intends to make a lot of money.
Thanks Paula,
The Article title says it all.
I was actually looking for the kindle version of The Zyprexa Papers, but at least I know now that its coming out.
I think some of these ‘psychiatric controllers’ must be psychopaths, their behaviour is really nasty.
Peter Goetzche has supported the idea that Psychiatric drugs do more harm than good, and (I believe) that even ‘Schizophrenics’ can Recover without consuming them, with support from (even) non professionals:-
But this is exactly true, and has been reliably recorded many times on Mad In America.
Probably the only Genuine Recovery from ‘Schizophrenia’ has been through rejection of the Psychiatric Drugging Approach and there is plenty of solid evidence to back this up.
Hi Ayurdhi, this is a good subject.
You’ve got the medical top dogs in charge, connected up with pharmaceutical, political, and financial interests – and the ‘professionals’ underneath are the serfs. And if they rock the boat they won’t eat.
The top dogs decide what the illnesses are, and what the cures are. And the politicians controlling the public funding – fall in line as well.
The corruption has been around a long time, it’s obvious, it’s visible – and it’s Blatant.
“… a study published in 1982 reported that when a group of patients with schizophrenia were each given 20 mg of fluphenazine, the difference between the highest and lowest blood level of the drug was 40-fold. …”
Dear Dr McLaren,
‘Dangerous’ is the term used to describe Irish doctor, Dr Ivor Browne, who can turn ‘Long Term Mental Illnesses’ into Recoverable Events (without medication).
Non Bio/Bio
The Bio approach doesn’t work that’s why “Schizophrenia” is classed a long term Mental Illness, characterized by enduring disability, physical ill health, and early death.
The only people with “Schizophrenic” Diagnosis that I’ve heard of genuinely recovering, have managed to do this through the non bio approach, and rejection of the bio approach. So, for me it’s straightforward.
Mad Mother,
Treatment induced Akathisia was the worst experience of my life.
Currently, in Ireland theres an Epidemic of Homicide and Suicide, by peaceful people with no original Mental Illness, who’ve been prescribed ‘anti depressants’ by their doctors for ‘modern day life stress’.
When people on ‘antidepressants’ ‘Act Out’ the community is often alarmed and confused, and underlying serious mental illness is often promoted by the ‘experts’.
If 15% of people in Ireland take ‘antidepressants’, this would translate into maybe 300,000 people. If even 1% of this figure were prone towards Acute Akathisia this would translate into maybe 3,000 people, and this is where the Epidemic comes from.
“….And you say, ‘What happened to all of those beds? What happened to all of that work? And where are those people?’ And in many cases, those people are living on the streets.”…”
“..What happened to all of that work? ..” sounds a bit like locking people up in institutions could provide a living for other people!
And, a person doesn’t have to be “mentally ill” to be “homeless”.
Good Article,
“…Researcher Peter Kinderman remarked that mental illness diagnoses “frequently and uncritically reported as ‘real illnesses’ are in fact made on the basis of internally inconsistent, confused and contradictory patterns of largely arbitrary criteria.”..”
The only requirement for membership to Alcoholics Anonymous is a desire to stop drinking!
Thank you Michael,
Reading your article I was impressed by how absolutely terrible it must have been for you as a young person, all those years ago.
And then you overcame “Schizophrenia” got back to college, got a BA and then an MA, became a Psychologist, and provided services to others, that weren’t available, for you yourself.
Your story is really amazing.
Do you remember the film “The Promise” with James Garner and James Woods? It could have been a bad dream!
The extension of “schizophrenia” is amazing and frightening.
I looked up the Pamphlet and I thought the descriptions were fairly honest.
“….THE HSE AND clinical psychiatrists have strongly criticised pamphlets being delivered across Dublin regarding antipsychotic medicines.
Leaflets warning people about the dangers of taking prescription antipsychotic medication were sent to residents in south Dublin by a group linked to the Church of Scientology in recent weeks.
The pamphlets are titled “Antipsychotics: The facts about the effects”, and are part of what is described as a psychotropic drug series published by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR)….”
“…..The information contained within this leaflet is misleading, inaccurate and shows no evidence of any understanding of the complex biological, psychological and social contributors to mental illness. The HSE advises that if this leaflet causes concern to any person who is being treated with antipsychotic medication, that they contact their GP or a member of the mental health team that is looking after them. …”
In honesty would Tich Nhat Hanh pass the test, or Eckhart Tolle, or any of the other heavy weights? Would Elanour Longden?
“…The applicants are then rated on the eight qualities that make up FIS: verbal fluency, hope & positive expectation, persuasiveness, emotional expression, warmth & understanding, empathy, alliance capacity, and alliance rupture repair. Only about 10% of peer counselor applicants pass the assessment….”
Joanna
I eventually managed to come off my ‘long acting neuroleptic injection’ many, many years ago through a very careful drug taper, and psychological means – similar to below:-
I’ve remained well since, so there is no such thing as “Schizophrenia”.
KateL,
Please hang in there.
Dear Robert
On the Subject of The Unanswered Question:
Maybe the psychiatric experts were so used to interpreting or misinterpreting symptoms of normal behaviour or so called mental illness at their own convenience – that they had lost the ability to tell the difference (I’m serious).
“….Despite paying $8,000 more a year than anyone else, American families do not have better health outcomes, the economists argue. Life expectancy in the United States is lower than in Europe…”
Professors Angus Deaton and Anne Case.
Most people don’t have “mental illness” to begin with
– they either have “substance problems” or “psychological problems” (hallucinations and delusions included).
The only Factual Recovery from “Schizophrenia” on record, comes from people that reject Psychiatic drugs in favour of a Non Psychiatric approach (often of the ‘Spiritual’ Variety).
It is a Holocaust.
Most of the ‘schizophrenics’ I knew (years ago) in Ireland had very little wrong with them, as far as most people would be able to see, other than the doctors diagnosis.
Their problem was that when they tried to stop taking the ‘drugs’ they got into trouble. But there was no acknowledgement of ‘drug withdrawal syndrome’, so when they developed problems they were seen to be relapsing.
Most of these people are now dead – well before their time.
He describes the Dynamic of Anxiety (and what to do about it) brilliantly. Having said this his “Recovery” happened in a different country.
Thanks Sarah,
This series is very worthwhile.
Life has always been stressful, but I think it’s become a lot more stressful now for the average person and the average (in the process of being deskilled) middle class person – because all the money is going in one direction – and this is being supported worldwide.
There are lots and lots of clever ways to undermine the population majority of unimportant people; and it’s still easy enough to get a very badly paid job.
I’ll have to study all your episodes first, to see if you can suggest any solutions.
A friend of mine is in a self supporting peer group. And the subject of “medication” is a very sensitive point within this group.
My friend said that it was very important NOT to advise anyone on this subject, BUT that a person could always relate their own experience of what worked for them (and what didn’t) in their own Recovery.
Exposure To Strong Psychiatric Drugs Causes “Severe Mental Illness”
A Black Man in England is 10 times more likely to be diagnosed with “Schizophrenia” than a White Man. But Complete Recovery Rates from “Schizophrenia” for Black Men are Not proportionally higher.
I believe this is because Exposure to Neuroleptic Drugs (aka ‘anti psychotics’) causes Long term Mental Illness, regardless of whether a person is, ‘Well’ or ‘Unwell’ to begin with.
Yes!
AKATHISIA
In Psychiatry what causes suicide causes homicide, and psychiatric drugs cause suicide.
The increase in consumption of Psychiatric Drugs in Ireland has created an Epidemic of Homicides and Familicides committed by Normal People taking “medications” for “modern living” related Anxiety.
Whenever I listen to Eckhart Tolle Iearn some, because of his ability to explain and motivate.
The Peers have the success, that the most qualified Psychiatrists don’t. So I think if a person wants a solution they might go to the peers.
Also, even the most qualified Psychiatrists often make people worse.
Dr Peter,
EVIDENCE BASED MEDICINE AND THE EXPULSION…
“….Torrey wrote to call attention to Gøtzsche’s association with an organization called the Hearing Voices Network, which, Torrey claims, “promotes the belief that … auditory hallucinations are merely on end of a normal behavior spectrum.” …”
On this subject (alone) Torrey tends to disagree with you – yet there is ample evidence that you are factually right.
Are you going to present the Evidence…?
.
They’re taking the piss!
In the first three to six months the person is totally unused to drugs and more than likely without information – and the staff are trained to keep quiet. So its a lottery!
“…Males with schizophrenia attempt suicide at a much higher rate than females; approximately 60% of them will make at least one attempt.
Particular times that people with schizophrenia tend to be suicidal include
1) Periods when they are very psychotic and out of touch with reality,
2) Periods when they are very depressed,
3) In the first 6 to 9 months after they have started first taking medications, when they are thinking more clearly and learn that the they have schizophrenia (and all the negative aspects that this connotates)….”
IN MY CASE AND I THINK IN MOST CASES:- NEUROLEPTIC INDUCED AKATHISIA IS CAUSING THE SUICIDE ATTEMPTS…
Since Akathisia can also cause uncontrollable Violence I would say on balance, Society would be safer without Neuroleptic Medication.
“…From paracetamol (known as acetaminophen in the US) to antihistamines, statins, asthma medications and antidepressants, ..” AND NEUROLEPTICS.
NEUROLEPTICS
They are profoundly disabling, and if a person can come off them successfully, then they can regain their ability to perform.
Mood, Personality, and Behavior Changes During Treatment with Statins: A Case Series
“…“Probable” causality was limited to those who experienced occurrence following drug initiation, had the drug discontinued, and improved following drug discontinuation…”
That’s what happened to me with Neuroleptics!
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_Peterson
“…In 2019, Peterson entered a rehabilitation facility after experiencing symptoms of physical withdrawal when he stopped taking clonazepam, an anti-anxiety drug. He had begun taking the drug upon his doctor’s recommendation following his wife’s cancer diagnosis.[143][…”
.
Mood, Personality, and Behavior Changes During Treatment with Statins: A Case Series
“…“Probable” causality was limited to those who experienced occurrence following drug initiation, had the drug discontinued, and improved following drug discontinuation…”
There might be a ‘small’ group!
The choice of words is very appropriate, here:-
“…The colossal overuse of psychoactive drugs produces chronic patients, often based on problems that are inherently temporary….”
Someone Else,
I support the complete nonexistence of “Schizophrenia” as a disease or a condition. But I do support the idea that a person might need help in dealing with trauma.
I don’t support the long term invalide idea of even non drug support.
I attend Peer groups in London in the UK and I’ve seen people completely falling apart get back on their feet again, consistently, with a little bit of genuine help.
The Peer movement wants people well, and doesn’t get paid or have anything to benefit from keeping people sick.
“..Dr. Fromm-Reichmann was a psychoanalyst famed for her compassion and her skill in reaching even the most seemingly intractable cases of “schizophrenia” with intensive psychotherapy — and without neurotoxic drugs..”
I was eventually diagnosed as such a dreadful “schizophrenic”.
To overcome my “Schizophrenia” I had to do two things.
1. Come off my Neuroleptics very S L O W L Y.
2. Come to terms with the HIGH ANXIETY of my Neuroleptic Withdrawal, which I achieved through recognising its Dynamic.
Less than 3 years later I decided to re immigrate back to the England so I went to visit a local priest to ask him for a character reference. Which he provided:-
But, in his 1986 Character Reference Letter the local priest seems to suggest that I had been very well – over the period of time my Consultant Psychiatrist considered me to be a hopeless “Schizophrenic”.
Surely Medical Opinion Cannot Overide Facts:-
If a person remains sick while cooperating with treatment, and makes complete recovery as a result of stopping treatment, then the treatment is the problem.
I think Dr Shipmans argument was that the people that died in his care, had died of there own accord. But he didn’t getaway with it.
“….They did not understand it at the time, but discovered along the way, what the receptor saturation curve means, namely…..”
What worked for me in the 1990s was meditation. It wasn’t very expensive maybe £20.00 and taught by the Western Buddhist Fellowship (in Central London).
I’d been on antidepressants, which I believe were prescribed, to cover for my suicidal reactions to Strong Psychiatric Drugs.
I had come off maintenance doses of psychiatric drugs suitable for schizophrenia, and I was certainly miserable but I wouldn’t equate this to genuine clinical depression.
I am aware that meditation might not work for everyone – but it certainly did work consistently for me.
(I now have 30 years plus independence of the MH Services).
I scanned through the Article and I still believe its “Deadly Medicines and Organized Crime”, but I might be prejudiced (I was disabled for several years by Psychiatric Drugs + I was nearly killed several times by Psychiatric Drugs + I made full Recovery, with the help of psychology, as a result of carefully stopping Psychiatric Drugs).
You should put your articles into a book, Lawrence.
It’d be a bestseller if it didn’t get banned.
I think you’re being discrete:-
“…Aggressive diagnosing/medicating may partly explain why healthcare costs are much higher, yet lifespans are falling here…”
I’m sure there’s a bit more mileage in the series!
Alex
You are a brilliant writer.
..because their brains have been damaged.
Note, that the “antipsychotic” drugs cause the classic symptoms of “schizophrenia”.
…The Tribal lifestyle has been mooted as a solution for LONLINESS ….
There’s either a pill now available for LONLINESS or there will be soon.
Brilliant Dr Lawrence,
The worst member of the AA is probably better at helping someone with a “Drink Problem”, than the best Qualified Doctor or Psychologist.
“….C. People used to go to AA meetings or substance abuse counselors in order to kick an alcohol/drug habit, which was considered a non-physical problem. But then it was declared to be a literal physical (brain) disease and thus also became a doctor’s realm — addiction medicine. These doctors lure and steal clients by offering addictive medicine to addicts!..”
(The organised rehab centres are extremely expensive but subsidised by the taxpayer (in the UK), and once an alcoholic recovers and stays off the booze for a period of time, the counsellor approaches them with a suggestion of attempted social drinking. Acoholism is a relapsing disorder so the client is encouraged to relapse).
I like the way you include everyone in the madness description. It’s the truth!
In my opinion the Psychiatric approach is a form of “Schizophrenia”.
Rachel777,
Taking an SSRI is not too serious, but if a person reacts they can be labelled Bipolar, and then they are in TROUBLE.
This is an undertood phenomenon, and it is equivalent to poisoning the water supply.
Why are Psychiatrists allowed to do this?
Madmom,
As far as I was concerned the main thing was not to get caught in the clutches of the system again. So once i got off the worst of the drugs, I took it easy. But once I got off the worst of the drugs I met the requirement for being well i.e. I could apply myself.
Even so the reactive anxiety was absolutely horrendous. (‘CBT’ can work for this).
There is no compulsory treatment in Ireland as far as I know, once a person is out of hospital – and this makes for more reliable standards.
Will,
I firmly believe Psychiatric Drugs cause “Schizophrenia and Bipolar” as we know them today.
I also believe that I can substantiate this from my own experience and from my own medical records (and I intend doing so).
I was talking to a doctor friend of mine over Christmas about the use of psychiatric drugs and he predicted in years to come that, “these days” would be viewed as the dark times in “Mental Health” when doctors didn’t know what they were doing.
He related to me that cancer recovery has become commonplace now, not because of better drugs, but because doctors have become so expert at using them.
In “Mental Health” there’s a lot “medical experts” can learn from the “non co operative patients” that make Full Longterm Recovery as a result of rejecting Professional Advice.
There’s a capacity for psychotherapy to attempt to abuse as much as psychiatry.
I believe psychotherapists need to split in terms of those that support psychotherepeutic recovery for people diagnosed “Schizophrenic” and “Bipolar” – and those who can’t handle this.
It took me 6 years to go from an ‘antipsychotic’ ‘maintenance dose’ to a ‘totally non thereuptic’ dose (…and eventually this became nothing).
But even then I would n’t have been successful if I hadn’t made the ‘realisation’ – that I had to detach from my ‘head’ completely when I was in ‘Catastrophy’ – and when I was able to do this – my Intuition took over and guided me.
And Matt Stevensons (death), not too long after exposing and campaigning under his own identity.
Psychiatrists Are Saying Trump might be Dangerous…
…includes a C.P.N. nurse who actually called at my house in Ireland in the 1980s when I refused to take my monthly depot injection. When I explained the problems I was having with Akathisia to him, he was at the time sympathetic – but he did NOT record my problems on the records.
The above study does refer to extrapyrammidal movement problems BUT does NOT refer to Akathisia Induced Suicide – which is something the Authors were Aware of.
The Psychologist at the same Psychiatric Unit as I attended, promised me in the 1980s that ALL the “patients” attending could make complete recovery without medication and through psychology.
There’s a Licence To Kill on “Schizophrenics” so it’s not good to be one of them.
(And the country I come from biggest Export is Pharmaceuticals).
Hi Bob,
“…That people diagnosed with schizophrenia needed to be on these drugs, and that to speak about research that questioned that belief, which I had done, was to expose people to harm…”
“…In 2016 he published an editorial arguing that disease classifications should drop the concept of “schizophrenia”, as it is an unhelpful description of symptoms.[8]..”
I’d completely drop the term “schizophrenia” and not replace it with anything else – and concentrate on helping a person with (any) “problems” the person might have.
I’d see an approach like this eradicating “Schizophrenia” – but would this be whats wanted???
How can people like Charles Nemeroff get away with their “behaviour” (in Mental Health). If this was to happen in any other area surely they’d be prosecuted.
The “Mental Health” corruption has got to go higher than doctors and drug companies!
As someone that’s consumed strong Psychiatric Drugs over a period of time (and recovered as a result of discontinuation), I’d say that that the overall mental and physical damage done by the drugs is worse than the “conditions” the drugs are supposed to treat.
“….He also began to investigate iatrogenic harms of antidepressants—the notion that the drugs used to treat the condition are, instead, making it more chronic and resistant to future treatment. He began asking questions: Why did those who continued to take the drug long-term have more risk of relapse than those who decided to stop taking the drug? Why did those who tried more drugs have higher risk of relapse?..”
Slaying the Dragon,
There are literally millions of stories like this in progress right now!
Thank you very much for writing this Bob. It is realistic.
In the developed World “Schizophrenia” is clearly caused by Psychiatric Drugs.
“…..The long and the short of it is that I no longer see myself as “mentally ill.” I also no longer need to jump out of my skin from chronic discomfort, regret for my past and fear for my future. What I think I’m up against is the human condition. The stress response is part of that. Like all things human, the stress response is mixed. In the right circumstances, it is a life-saving, life-enriching gift. In the wrong ones, it is a curse that can make my life a living hell….”
“….In 2019, Peterson entered a rehabilitation facility after experiencing symptoms of physical withdrawal when he stopped taking clonazepam, an anti-anxiety drug. He had begun taking the drug upon his doctors recommendation following his wife’s cancer diagnosis.[144][14….”
“….Jim van Os, a professor of psychiatry at Maastricht University, is part of a growing number of professionals around the world calling for the end to the concept of schizophrenia….”
The difference between me and a “long term disabled schizophrenic” is that I was able to come off strong Psychiatric Drugs in 1984 through psychological means – even though I initially nearly died several times in the process.
(And a historical doctor was prepared to ackowledge drugs ‘causing problems’).
The “untreated” “schizophrenics” might get into trouble for stealing a loaf of bread, or a pint of milk but are not generally speaking, even as dangerous as the average person.
Even “schizophrenics” that “act out” on medications (akathisia) usually do so by going into a corner and quietly suiciding.
Unfortunately there are lots and lots of completely normal Americans, now living in worse than 3rd World conditions of destitution (much the same as the destitute “schizophrenics”).
International Jails are generally full of people that have behaved violently under the influence of Alcohol not under the influence of “Schizophrenia” (and President Trump *”has a genetic connection” with alcoholism).
The Republic of Ireland has an Epidemic problem with familial Homicide and Suicide committed by normal people (taking antidepressants) – NOT “Schizophrenics”.
*I don’t believe in the principle of alcoholic genetic liability – its a Psychiatric Principle.
Thanks Sarah, You’re always brilliant. I’ll have to analyse this article for nuggests of wisdom!
Somatic Psychotherapist Peter Levine demonstrates PTSD Recovery
Dear Sam,
What other medical speciality would employ people that are trained to operate at the standard of Psychiatry. I think for the most part they’d be unemployable!
“…..No doubt for daring to expose this, I will be subject to the usual barrage of secret complaints by anonymous authors, which will be investigated in camera by an unnamed committee considering evidence I am not allowed to see, who will reach a decision that favours the status quo, and for which there will be no effective appeal. Because that’s how psychiatrists operate…”
Don’t worry Dr Niall you’re already in “negative popularity territory”.
“…..TMZ broke the story, Britney spent 30 days at an L.A. mental health facility after she began rapidly going downhill … she stopped taking the drugs that kept her stable after they stopped working and doctors still have been unable to find the right combination….”
Dear Dr Niall,
I like your straight talking style.
“….The one thing they will never do is have a fair, open, transparent and, above all, honest debate about the realities of being mentally disturbed in Australia…” It sounds like “they” are the ones that are disturbed!
“…..a person with that kind of wealth would be attracting a lot of people toward them, many of whom may not have their best interests in mind.” It’s hard to imagine the same paternalism applied to a male rock star….”
2 things that should be obvious to ‘Professionals’ working in ‘Mental Health’:-
Psychiatric Drugs cause ‘Longterm Mental Illness’.
Psychiatric Drugs cause Suicide.
Is there some type of drive on to sabotage society and disable people? It looks to me like there could be!
Sylvain,
This is exactly it, getting people on to drugs. To say Ketamine can genuinely help anyone is bollocks.
It’s like saying Tranquillisers (Neuroleptics) work – they don’t.
In the UK a 2nd generation Caribeann Man is 10 times more likely to be diagnosed “schizophrenic” than an indigenous UK man, but is not many times more likely to completely recover. Its the Psychiatric treatments that cause the “long term conditions”.
I have a friend that’s in Alcoholics Anonymous and he says that if a person stops drinking and life stays okay then that’s good. But if a person stops drinking and they find other problems begin to cause trouble then this is something the AA could help them with.
“…that theirs is the only conceivable approach to mental disorder and that all criticism is malicious…”
The 47 year old veteran (you mentioned) might be better off attending a 12 step group mixing with people who understood exactly where he was coming from.
“….When psychiatrists are so insecure that they need to assail the UN HRC, we know there is something seriously wrong.9..” Psychiatrists are doctors that are not employable doing anything other than what they do (prescribing “medications”) – I think this is what’s wrong.
[In the long run, as far as I can see, psychiatric treatments make people more, not less distressed].
TERRIBLE ANXIETY
Q. Do Psychiatric Drugs cause Anxiety?
A. In my experience they can cause Terrible Anxiety.
Q. Is it possible to overcome this Anxiety?
A. Yes it definitely is.
Q. How?
A. In lots and lots of Normal Ways (and by carefully coming off the medication).
Hospitalization (or Crisis) can be caused by trying to come off “medication” too quickly.
It took 6 years for me to taper from 25mg of Modecate Depot injection (maintenance dose) per month; to 25 mg per day of Thioradazine (tablet form) which is be about 8% of a (300mg Thioradazine per day) Maintenance Dose.
I was okay with the 6 year time frame, as my disability came to an end, when I stopped taking the Depot Injection.
Nice to see you on Mad In America again, Dr Peter. You’re an honest and courageous doctor.
Some “doctors” would promote “anything”!
He’s unemployable!
ANXIETY
I don’t know how children deal with their anxiety, but I know how I deal with my own – I detach if I’m able and if I’m not able, I think in circles. If I’m able to detach, my intuition eventually takes over, and I know what to do.
Someone told me that intuition is not a 6th sense, it’s the 1st sense that a baby has.
It might be very difficult though for a person to overcome anxiety if they re in an impossible situation – which I’m glad to say, I’m not.
Frank,
I think I can prove what you’re saying is true.
How about the disease of “Non Existent Severe Mental Illness”.
It’s nice to read your “Mad in Norway” introduction communicated in excellent English; I’m a survivor through experience myself. Good Luck and please keep in touch. I’m sure we can benefit from the contact.
I don’t think Norway is a full member of the EEC, but I think it is closely connected.
SCHIZOPHRENIA $$$
What does “has a Diagnosis of Schizophrenia” (in isolation) mean?
“….Approximately three-fourths of people with schizophrenia have ongoing disability with relapses[35] and 16.7 million people globally are deemed to have moderate or severe disability from the condition.[169] Some people do recover completely and others function well in society….”
“…Schizophrenia is a severe long-term mental health condition…”
“…Doctors often describe schizophrenia as a type of psychosis. This means the person may not always be able to distinguish their own thoughts and ideas from reality…”
“….Symptoms of schizophrenia include: hallucinations – hearing or seeing things that do not exist outside of the minddelusions – unusual beliefs not based on reality muddled thoughts based on hallucinations or delusions losing interest in everyday activitiesnot caring about your personal hygiene wanting to avoid people, including friends…”
“…Schizophrenia does not cause someone to be violent and people with schizophrenia do not have a split personality….”
Representation of Schizophrenia in Isolation is something Professionals in the UK do again and again. There’s Good Money in it.£££
I think Public Medical Systems can shop around for suitable care not available nationally, within the EEC,
I know Ireland uses UK Health facilities.
The thing about Hurdalsjøen is that it practically offers a “cure”.
If you look at the people who recover (from “Schizophrenia; Depression; Anxiety; BiPolar”) a lot of them recover from the Dr Wayne Dyer (Deepak Chopra, Eckhart Tolle) type of approach.
(Not to distract) The Mental Health System reminds me of the Industrial Farming System:- Its very cruel, it’s ‘invisable’, and every bit of value belonging to the ‘animal’ is exploited.
[I was in a Famous NHS London Eye Hospital a few years ago after being sent there by my Optician to double check me for Glaucoma risk.
I was examined by a youngish doctor, and I mentioned to them that I had historically consumed psychotropics and that they had affected my eyes. The doctor told me that this was not the case, even though Patient Information Leaflets to most Psychotropic drugs warn of Eye Damage.
The doctor kept what I had expressed regarding my own experience off my records, and entered into my notes a Severe Mental Illness Diagnosis].
Thanks for this Article. The corruption can’t be exposed enough!
Philip,
Dr Huda has nowhere else to go!
In my twenties when I was coming off medication I ended up in hospital several times until I was able to finally reduce right down. And then I made full recovery and return to normal life – as the medications had been disabling me.
I had complained about the “medication disability” but my Consultant Psychiatrist had kept this off my Records – even though he himself had stated “my disability” to be my Problem.
For me Recovery depended on my Ability to deal with my Rebound High Anxiety.
“Mooji” wasnt around at this time but I found Psychologist “Dr Wayne Dwyer” very insightful.
Eckharte Tolle ‘Power of Now’ also has good solutions which he says can be benefited from ‘organically’.
(The psychiatric treatments break the mind and a person needs the right kind of help to recover).
Dear Dr Joanna,
This is an interesting point if it is approached scientifically, especially with the beneficial research work you do. I apologise for any cynicism.
Otherwise, I think “Relapse” might depend on how the doctor might choose to describe the situation (even with standards in place).
For example “Paranoia” could be described as Anxiety. Or “Psychosis” could be described as Hysteria.
Severe Mental Illness categorization is supposed to refer to a person who is more disabled – than blind or in a wheelchair. So it’s difficult to say exactly what a Non Relapsing Severely Mentally Ill Person would be.
I believe activist Will Hall recounted once in an article that he was incarcerated as acutely mentally Ill In a mental hospital until his insurance money ran out – and then discharged as well.
I can prove I recovered as a result of stopping my depot injection medication in 1984.
(But the reference above suggests, I’ve always been okay).
The Drugs in my opinion, cause the illness and what I had to get was a ‘Power of the Now’ or “Mooji” perspective: https://youtu.be/vdKs13kf13A
…and this worked.
Medical Tourism is what it’s probably going to be at the start; but maybe cheaper than at home!
I’d imagine lots of successful variations will eventually develop, as the users help each other.
With a bit of luck it will take off!
Dear Moderator,
I was putting the above comments together on my mobile while the battery kept running out, and I had difficulty editing them.
Of the above moderated comments (originally December 6, 2019 at 4:39 pm), I have provided three nearly identical versions. Please take which ever one suits you.
There’s another two empty comments – please remove them.
Thanks a lot.
Fiachra
INITIAL BATTERING NOV 1980.
The “medications” I was given Every Day for two months were: 100 mg Haloperidol per day; 1000 mg of Largactil per day; 50 mg of modecate per month; and ECT and Lithium towards the end of my stay:-
Haloperidol at 100mg is on average equivalent to 4,250mg of Chloropromazine (Thorazine).
My DAILY Polypharmacy Cocktail would have been roughly equivalent to 6,000 mg of Thorazine per DAY for 2 MONTHS, after which I was a complete PHYSICAL MESS and have never fully recovered.
MAD
But Psychologist Dr Richard Bentall went MAD on a lot less (of the same drug Haloperidol)
SLOW TAPER
By 1990 I had tapered down to 25mg per DAY of Thioradazine equivalent to 25mg of Chloropromazine/Thorazine which would be LESS than .05% of what I had consumed per DAY in hospital in 1980. Thioradazine at 25 mg per DAY would also be equivalent to about 8%of a daily maintenance dose of 300mg Thorazine.
WHAT HAPPENED
I had originally returned to London in August of 1980 after spending a number of months living and working in Amsterdam Holland. In London after some contact with the Police my passport was not within my belongings
INITIAL BATTERING NOV 1980.
The “medications” I was given Every Day for two months were: 100 mg Haloperidol per day; 1000 mg of Largactil per day; 50 mg of modecate per month; and ECT and Lithium towards the end of my stay:-
Haloperidol at 100mg is on average equivalent to 4,250mg of Chloropromazine (Thorazine).
My DAILY Polypharmacy Cocktail would have been roughly equivalent to 6,000 mg of Thorazine per DAY for 2 MONTHS, after which I was a complete PHYSICAL MESS and have never fully recovered.
MAD
But Psychologist Dr Richard Bentall went MAD on a lot less (of the same drug Haloperidol)
The Study (above) was undertaken by Dr David Healy, who had witnessed (in his training) my recovery as a result of carefully tapering from “my medication”.
SLOW TAPER
By 1990 I had tapered down to 25mg per DAY of Thioradazine equivalent to 25mg of Chloropromazine/Thorazine which would be LESS than .05% of what I had consumed per DAY in hospital in 1980. Thioradazine at 25 mg per DAY would also be equivalent to about 8%of a daily maintenance dose of 300mg Thorazine.
WHAT HAPPENED
I had originally returned to London in August of 1980 after spending a number of months living and working in Amsterdam Holland. In London after some contact with the Police my passport was not within my belongings.
.
WHAT HAPPENED Contd.
I ended up in a Bail Hostel; then in the Maudsley Psychiatric Hospital, and was in November 1980 transferred (door to door) to the Psychiatric Unit at Galway, Southern Ireland.
AMSTERDAM
The UK side of the Irish notes contains no mention of Amsterdam. A confused History is provided by the UK accompanying Doctor (on Admission at Galway in November 1980) and written up and signed for by the Admitting Irish Doctor, Dr Fadel. The UK doctor signs nothing.
In Amsterdam I had been socially acquainted with a Northern Irish Born Again Christian that closely matches the person in the description (below)..
..who had been concerned about a conversation we were supposed to have had – that I couldn’t place.
MAUDSLEY PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL
On arrival at the Maudsley Hospital in 1980 I walked through one door and then through another – and then I was in.
MAUDSLEY “DISCHARGE SUMMARY”
There exists a handwritten “Discharge Summary” (as described by my Historical Irish Psychiatrist Dr PA Carney – to the Irish Medical Council) from “My” UK Maudsley Psychiatrist in my Irish Notes.
But this “Discharge Summary” contains NO date of Arrival to the Maudsley Hospital; NO Mental Health Diagnosis; NO identification of the Professional that accompanied me to the hospital; NO evidence of any Admission Procedure; and NO mention of Amsterdam.
Within the “Summary” “My” UK Psychiatrist does not mention ever having met me, and is very vague on nearly everything, Bar a strong suggestion of suspected Street Drug Taking by me (even in hospital). He says I had consistently denied Street Drug Taking, as I would, as I had never Knowingly or Willingly consumed Street Drugs.
INITIAL BATTERING NOV 1980.
The “medications” I was given Every Day for two months were: 100 mg Haloperidol per day; 1000 mg of Largactil per day; 50 mg of modecate per month; and ECT and Lithium towards the end of my stay:-
Haloperidol 100mg is on average equivalent to 4,250mg of Chloropromazine (Thorazine).
My Polypharmacy Cocktail would have been roughly equivalent to 6,000 mg of Thorazine per DAY for 2 MONTHS, after which I was a PHYSICAL MESS and have never fully recovered.
MAD
But Psychologist Dr Richard Bentall went MAD on a lot less (of the same drug Haloperidol)
The Study (above) was undertaken by Dr David Healy, who had witnessed (in his training) my recovery as a result of carefully tapering from “my medication”.
SLOW TAPER
By 1990 I had tapered down to 25mg per DAY of Thioradazine equivalent to 25mg of Chloropromazine/Thorazine which would be LESS than .05% of what I had consumed per DAY in hospital in 1980. Thioradazine at 25 mg per DAY would also be equivalent to about 8%of a daily maintenance dose of 300mg Thorazine.
WHAT HAPPENED
I had originally returned to London in August of 1980 after spending a number of months living and working in Amsterdam Holland. In London after some contact with the Police my passport was not within my belongings.
I am very sorry to hear of Julie Greene’s passing. She contributed quite a lot to The Struggle in the last few years with her brilliant writing, and there was the feeling, that the best was yet to come.
Julie Greene was also one of the very few people to honestly acknowledge my own Psychiatric Experience:-
Most of the “schizophrenic” people I knew in Ireland were very ‘Adult’ but trapped in Psychiatry, by the ‘medications’.
1. Thought disorder – logically you are correct and the doctor is not.
2. Grandiose Delusions – look at the amount of interest this article has generated!
4. It would be possible to claim anyone to be mentally ill, on the grounds that they disagree that they are mentally ill.
and clinicians backing each other up in Mental Health – this is exactly what they actually do.
“…As Dutch psychiatrist Jim Van Os has claimed, an entity called schizophrenia does not exist….”
Yes:- there are people that hear voices and can live in harmony with them; there are plenty of eccentric people that thrive; paranoid violence is often celebrated, lots of happy people are actually delusional; when people come off neuroleptics they can suffer terrible anxiety but can learn to deal with it.
The reason I was able to withdraw from Neuroleptics and Overcome “Schizophrenia” and Neuroleptic Disability, was because I was able to find Psychological Approaches that worked.
…and what worked for me in overcoming “Schizophrenia” would not be too difficult to describe.
You describe Stephen Gilbert well. He was very thoughtful and compassionate and realistic.
Michael,
The Psychiatrist (in the LINK below) completely bypasses “Schizophrenia”…
….BUT has a reliable history of curing “them” through non drug means (or helping them, cure themselves).
..and his “colleagues” consider him dangerous!
Thanks Lauren.
Your article makes a lot of sense to me right now (and by coincidence I was listening to Deepak Chopra myself today).
Thanks Chaya,
A lot of identification with you Jesse In your historical plight. I remember a guy saying to me once that the only reason we survive, is to help other people survive.
It’s good to see you putting the public media system to a positive use. Like Someone else said – I must get on to twitter myself.
Thanks again for the Article.
…and commonplace!
Thanks Michael and Someone else,
You explain yourself very reasonably in this brilliant article, Michael.
I don’t believe in “Schizophrenia”; or “Psychosis”(most of the time). I believe “mental health drugs cause long term mental illness” and that normal solutions (to distress) can be found, outside of “medicine”.
I experienced “very high anxiety” when I attempted to withdraw from neuroleptics and ended up in hospital several times as a result, before eventually discovering non drug solutions – which can be proven to work.
3. I did say “Nurses are drugging the food to make patients drowsy.”
“… Covert medication is the practice of hiding medication in food or beverages so that it goes undetected. Tablets may be crushed or liquid forms of medication may be used for patients who are either not in a position to give consent or refuse consent because of lack of insight….”
“…A patient’s irrational refusal to take medication can be frustrating for the nurse. Crushing the pill into applesauce or ice cream saves time and effort, and spares the patient the aggravation of quarreling. But while hiding medication is sometimes ethically justified, often it is not….”
Conclusions. “…The covert administration of drugs is common in Norwegian nursing homes. Routines for such practice are arbitrary, and the practice is poorly documented in the patients’ records…”
“….In response to this case the following focused question was formulated: In patients with mental disorders (schizophrenia, dementia and so on), is use of concealed medications in food or drink, rather than prescribing medications in the usual way or forcibly administering them, ethically justifiable?…”
“……Covert administration is only likely to be necessary or appropriate where:
a person actively refuses their medicine
that person is judged not to have the capacity to understand the consequences of their refusal.
Such capacity is determined by the Mental Capacity Act 2005
the medicine is deemed essential to the person’s health and wellbeing..”
This is quite interesting for me in the sense that I mix with people that have withdrawn from substance and can compare this community with the “Psyciatric/Severely Mentally Ill” community.
Most “Psychiatric” people are gentle with just about a reasonable amount of “problems” whereas the substance community are often completely mad (but undiagnosed).
What I believe got me free from my Neuroleptic dependency was the idea of Step No 3 of the “12 Step Fellowships” but within my own understanding:- the idea of “stopping” as my head was incapable of doing anything in the state it was in!
It brings back the misery of “psychiatry” to me. Having to “please” defeats the purpose.
When I was in my early 20s I was given permission to come off drugs completely, but I couldn’t. I experienced hospitalizations and suicide attempts. But then I discovered that I could cut the medication to a level that didn’t disable me (and get back to life).
“…A new study by UCD and Jigsaw yesterday shows one in four young people in Ireland suffers from anxiety . .”
I believe Robert Whitaker said, that everyone suffered from Anxiety.
.
That’s for sure!
It makes sense to me that people who are at risk of going without their basic needs, are not going to gain much from psychotherapy. Unless the psychotherapy can show them how to survive better.
But in Western Europe according to my (historical) experience a person can only be so poor!
I consumed tricyclic antidepressants for a number of years and found, starting them, being on them, and stopping them, made no difference to my mood whatsoever. But I hadn’t been clinically depressed to begin with!
I was a completely disabled person until I scaled down on “antipsychotics”.
I notice South Africa has a big ‘export’ market in Rehab Care; and the Philippines has a big ‘export’ market in qualified medical staff (who refund the country). I’d imagine any country that develops Care that gets People Well – should profit.
Very interesting Open Dialogue explanation within this UTube video for ‘psychosis’ – but no amount of analysis could have helped me deal with “my High Anxiety” on attempting to withdraw from “antipsychotics”.
But “CBT”/”Buddhism” did help me deal with this “antipsychotic drug” induced “Stress Disorder”.
So the Non Drug Approach can work successfully at both ends.
Screening + Drug Treatment = Increase in Veteran Suicides = Not a Good Advert.
I can identify with suicide attempts on drugs; and genuine recovery with routine non drug approaches.
You mean it’s about promoting the (very expensive) “electronic drugs”?
SCAPEGOATING
If “most people” carrying out “Mass Shootings” come from the “Normal” division of the population, NOT the “Severe Mentally Ill” division; then I don’t see how “Getting Tough” with the “Severely Mentally Ill” will reduce the “Mass Shootings”.
Thank You Leah for standing up effectively against Injustice.
Thank you very much, for your research and advice.
The holistic approach did work for me for Psychotropic Drug Withdrawal (Neuroleptic LAI), and for Mental Wellbeing and Happiness.
I rebounded several times and nearly killed myself, before deciding to taper carefully. The Rebounds were recorded as Relapses; or more Chronic Severe Mental Illness. And then I had 35 years of complete wellness.
My Name was Placed by my GP Surgery, on a Severe Mental Illness Register in 2002, while I worked on House of Parliament Building Norman Shaw House:
I wonder how this fits in with Person Centred Care
Thanks for highlighting an obvious source of human distress; it can’t be emphasised too often.
But, if “Global Mental Health” were to “acknowledge” Sociostructural determinates of distress – what might they do with them?
Factually, the average present day Psychiatrist has as much of an idea of a non tranquillisation approach, as does the average librarian, or taxi driver.
It would seem to me that a person can only be excluded by an exlusive group, and exclusive groups can exclude anyone, so everyone is vulnerable to being excluded. I think this is how a lot of the world operates, and this is one of the reasons why we have mental institutions.
In my own life I have experience of being in some generally inclusive groups. Some human environments naturally operate like this.
Thank you Dr Gnaulati,
It is an interesting question why people approve of ‘pride’ and ‘success’. I wonder how much difference there might be between men and women as observers on this.
A “Diagnosis of Schizophrenia” is on of the most Fatal things that a person can get!
Thanks for the Great Blog Eric
“Learning From the Voices in My Head” by Eleanour Langdon is available on Amazon (Ebook) for £2.95, and it is an excellent and very readable book.
I don’t know whether to laugh, or to cry:-
“…The researchers hypothesized that bipolar disorder itself might lead to Parkinson’s disease since both syndromes are theorized to be disorders of the dopaminergic system. However, the researchers acknowledge that the cause of both disorders is unknown and that bipolar disorder itself “is not associated with overt evidence of neurodegeneration…”
Myself I didn’t suffer longterm neurological difficulty until I came into contact with psychiatry.
But you try reporting this to a doctor or neurologist.
That’s what it might be in a sense “evil spirits” or “human ill will”, that surround a person. There’s no reason why a ceremony shouldn’t work – to chase out the demons.
“…and one which will tell a person, to their face, that their experience is not true, not real, and not valid.”
In my case Yes and No, the Academics and Neuro Scientists that looked after me completely omitted my recent historical experience in the summer of 1980. I had spent several months in Amsterdam prior to returning to London and ending up in the Maudsley Hospital for 2 months, and then returning to the Galway Ireland Regional Hospital.
But there was no mention of Amsterdam where I had worked and lived for several months and had been socially acquainted with a young Northern Irish “Born Again Christian” man who matches the description of the person below..
(he had been concerned about a conversation we were supposed to have had, but that I couldn’t place)
.
The Maudsley Psychiatrist in 1980 though vague on nearly everything else had placed a strong emphasis on “street drug abuse”. Which I repeatedly denied.
(Retrospectively I would deny knowingly or willingly taking street drugs).
When I was transferred to Ireland in November of 1980 the Mental Health “History and Formulation” (without Amsterdam) was quoted by the UK accompanying Doctor and written and signed for by the Admitting doctor, rendering the information IMO, Unreliable.
This Standard was accepted by my 1980 Consultant Psychiatrist and Academic Researcher at Galway Ireland.
The UK accompanying Doctor from 1980 (I believe) ‘committed suicide’ around 2000; and the Admitting Doctor at Ireland from 1980 (based in the UK in 2000) was barred from practising medicine.
Dear Chris Maylea and Indigo Daya,
Thank you for this very worthwhile Article.
I believe the Facts On The Ground should indicate what works, and should be followed – not Academia.
I’ve been. “Diagnosed” as “Schizophrenic” “Chronically Schizophrenic” and “Schizo Affective”, but have many, many years of proven Wellness behind me, as a result of leaving the Mainstream Psychiatric system.
My “Severe Mental Illness Disability” the Hallmark of “Severe Mental Illness”, also left me very quickly when I left the Mainstream Psychiatric System.
Had I remained “Severely Mentally Ill” for the past 40 years I would have cost the Irish Taxpayer about €3.5 Million (€80,000/Yr X 40yrs);
I cost the Irish Taxpayer about €0.35 Million (€80,000 X 4Yrs), prior to taking charge of things myself.
Exactly!
This is as a result of the hard work and persistence of individuals and organisations like Mad in America.
Everyone can probably identify with a nervous breakdown (especially ‘under stress’). But people recover, don’t they?
During a ‘Nervous Breakdown’ a person might be incapable and full of fear. A person “diagnosed with schizophrenia” might know where they are, but be disturbed.
So what’s the difference between a “nervous breakdown” and “schizophrenia”?
My external circumstances are not too different over the years but I’m happier. But a lot of people might be trapped in impossible situations.
(I remember a doctor friend telling me when someone is in a job that’s full of stress and comes to see him he tells them that the solution might be to leave the job. But a lot of people feel like they can’t, and not necessarily for the money).
They are not Antipsychotics they are Neuroleptics.
“Antipsychotic” is a marketing term, but it is inaccurate as the drugs don’t do anything for “psychosis”, the drugs “switch the whole person off”.
Dr Peter
I admire any doctor that is prepared to help people trapped in “psychiatry”.
“….A lot of our conversation has to do with the fact that we have to open up institutions; we can’t let these people be on the streets.’”..”
The “Classic Mentally Ill” are not shooting people. Its a small proportion of the large percentage of “Mentally Well People” that take Psychiatric Drugs for convenience, that are going on the Rampage.
“..In 2013, the maid of honor in Tittl’s wedding committed suicide. Then his cousin committed suicide. Another relative was institutionalized with a serious mental illness that year….”
I’ve experienced the same thing myself regarding suicide and my own extended family; and I have also attempted suicide twice myself. My problem was Akathisia.
Hallucinations = Brain Damage?
I think the McMinfulness movement is about pulling Mindfulness down. I notice a lot of ‘catch phrases’ are used repeatedly, even though I doubt the people using them know what they mean.
Most of the ‘SMI’ recovery stories I’ve seen on MIA have the spiritual side of ‘Meditation’ included in them.
To prove the point:- When I was at school in Ireland, English was the 98% Official Language. Irish (Gaelic) was also taught and promoted at school for 12 years up to the school leaving age of 16. But the majority of students, after 12 years of schooling, were not up to standard in the language.
But any child can learn a language naturally in 6 months.
When I was at school (as an incentive) a good pass in Irish in the final exams was worth 2 credits which would guarantee a person entry into University. And anybody up to standard in Irish taking the final exams was more or less guaranteed this.
(But the students were still incapable of learning the language through the school system).
.
Doesn’t at all surprise me.
I notice lots of people who work in Mainstream Mental Health for some reason seem to live not too far away from “the Joker” they mightn’t act out, but its very much in there.
But the UK even acknowledges how hopeless the “Mental Health” System has become. Theres nothing of value to export.
Thanks Sarah,
Your Message is always extremely constructive and I’m very interested in your initiatives.
I was at a late night peer group myself (11PM to 12 AM), when I saw your Article and have been attempting to absorb it since.
Peer Groups Can Make a Big Difference.
….and there’s probably a Diagnosis for 1 in every 3.
Lancet is England I presume. And England seems to have far too many of its own “Mental Health Problems” to involve itself anywhere else.
For example 1 in every 4 adults in England have been prescribed a psychotropic drug in the past year.
..and it’s probably the same all over the ‘developed’ world.
HUMAN RIGHTS
Dear Dr Dainius Pūras,
Do “Schizophrenics” have the “highest” rate of Suicide?
I was diagnosed in 1980, at the age of 20; and between 1980 and 1984 experienced a series of Suicidal hospitalizations, culminating in 1984 with me discontinuing drugs (depot injection) suitable for schizophrenia – and made Recovery. The DRUGS had CAUSED the SUICIDAL Hospitalizations (and the DISABILITY).
In October 2018 I went (with my notes) to see Professor of Psychiatry Dr David Healy at Wales, who provided me with a Letter expressing that he was confident that I had never suffered from Schizophrenia to begin with.
Dr David Healy in 1984 had been Registrar to the Consultant Psychiatrist that had treated me between 1980 and 1984.
A LICENCE TO KILL
This was my Experience with Psychiatry:-
I attended a Western Buddhist Group in London many years ago to learn Buddhist Breathing Meditation, and this has improved my ‘happiness in life’ over the years, very much. I would recommend it to anyone.
Meditation is something a person can do independently, and the ‘patience’ to do it can be developed very gradually.
As far as I know Buddhist Breathing Meditation has been reliably ‘proven’ to improve happiness and quality of life.
Why is “every” Hearing Voice Group in London ON during “Working Hours”?
Do people have to be “Disabled” to attend a group?
Are these groups run by Professionals or Peers?
Nearby Groups
Camden Mixed Hearing Voices Group
Tuesdays, 12.00 – 1.00pm
Camden Voice Collective 16-25 Group
Wednesdays, 5.00 – 6.30pm
Camden Women’s Hearing Voices Group
Fridays, 2.00 – 3.15pm
Enfield Hearing Voices Group
Mondays, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Hackney I.R.I.E Mind Hearing Voices Group
Thursdays, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Hackney Women-Only Hearing Voices Group
Wednesdays, 3.30 – 5.00pm
Haringey Hearing Voices Group
Mondays, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Islington Hearing Voices Group
Fridays, 2.15 – 3.30pm
Lee House Hearing Voices Group (Hackney)
Fridays, 11.30am – 12.30pm
Westminster St Mungo’s Broadway Unusual Beliefs Group
Wednesdays, 11.00am – 12 noon
Even in my hometown in Galway, Ireland in the 1980s, there existed groups where people supported each other to successfully Recover from the “Severe Mental Illnesses” (of “Manic Depression” + “Schizophrenia”):-
I think the “Article Title” describes things fairly accurately. ‘Mental Illness’ is longterm – because the treatment approach guarantees this.
What can be done to improve the overall situation? I would say acknowledgement of the success of the Non Drug Approaches (Open Dialogue being one of these). And acknowledgement of the dangers of abrupt psychuatric drug withdrawal.
Great Broadcast.
I’ll definitely be getting the Book!
Some lovely videos on U tube of Steven as well.
Yes I support the motion. People that don’t consume “antipsychotics” live about 25 years longer!
Hi Elizabeth,
It doesn’t surprise me that people describe SSRI s as ‘Gateway Drugs’. I’m glad you survived to describe the horror.
How can anyone ‘diagnose’ anybody else as MAD when the drugs have this effect!
This is a Much Needed International Institute
THE ORIGINAL EFFECTS OF THE DRUGS
I think it makes sense that if a person regularly consumes a psychotropic drug, that the drug becomes part of the persons ‘Mental Balance’, and if the drug is abprubtly withdrawn that the persons System can imbalance.
I think it also makes sense that if a psychotropic drug is carefully withdrawn, a person is far less likely to run into trouble, as they can see where they are going at any given stage.
MY EXPERIENCE
I stopped taking my Long Acting Neuroleptic Injection in 1984 because of its Suicidal and Disabling (Akathisia) side effects and made Complete Genuine Longterm Recovery as a result.
I was initially given permission to ‘abprubtly’ withdraw from the Long Acting Neuroleptic Injection in 1983, but I didn’t last long. I checked myself into hospital after a short length of time and ended up back on the injection.
After a number of further hospitalizations a suicide attempt (and a near suicide), I decided to very carefully withdraw from the Neuroleptic Injection with the help of oral medication. My Disability and Suicidal hospitalizations ended as a result of coming off the strong medications, and I remained Long term Well (from 1984 to 2019).
HIGH ANXIETY
I suffered from Neuroleptic withdrawal “High Anxiety”, but fortunately for me, I was able to find psychological tactics to deal with this potentially disabling condition.
I was able to recognise that I was going into “Catastrophy Mode” when it was happening, and I could recognise that my thinking was locking me in, and that if I was able to allow the “Drama” to pass off, I would (with difficulty) revert back to normal.
Eckhart Tolle describes something similar to “High Anxiety” in his book “The Power of Now” and he recommends very good ways of dealing with it.
RELAPSE OR REBOUND
My Historical 1980s Psychiatrist ‘presented’ a number of Research Papers on the Long Acting Neuroleptic Injections – where he described the inability to withdraw abrubtly from these drugs as Relapse:- My Experience contradicts this.
I think its always been presumed that drugs taken to make people feel happier are likely to make them feel more unhappy in the long run. It’s only ‘recently’ that people have attempted to argue against this.
I think the “McMindfulness Approach” is about destroying, a very useful ancient practice.
In my opinion ‘Enduring Mental Illness’ shouldn’t be very enduring in ‘Psychology’. I remember Dr Peter Breggin (I believe) in one of his articles mentioning that a young person coming to him with Severe Diagnosis in the summer might be back at ‘school’ in the Autumn.
I believe a person can also make complete recovery with the help of a psychologist without confiding their ‘personal life’ to the psychologist.
‘Normalized’ is a good word. It’s part of the culture now for a person to ‘expect’ to maybe be killed in a hospital when they go in for routine medical treatment. People accept this as ‘just one of those things’.
With ‘Schizophrenia’ what people often suffer from when they attempt to Withdraw from strong Psychiatric Drugs is a condition described by Robert Whitaker as “High Anxiety”.
The way a person might deal with High Anxiety is the same way as someone might deal with normal anxiety:- “allowing the anxious feelings to pass off before examining the anxiety”. With High Anxiety this can be VERY VERY difficult BUT can be successful.
It’s also important to withdraw very SLOWLY from strong psychiatric medications.
If “Severe Mental Illness” IS a Long Term Mental Illness in Psychiatry requiring long term and Disabling Drug treatment ; I can’t understand how someone can Recover Completely* through Psychological means (and stopping the Disabling Drug treatment).
Examples of complete recovery throgh Psychology might be:-
You’re in a good position now to help your friends.
I think it was Dr Kelly Brogan that said that a person can develop symptoms so severe on SSRI drug withdrawal that they compare with Acquired Immunity Disorder Syndrome.
The slower the better was my own experience.
Thanks again.
What about all the companies, that rely on the Government to operate and to make money!
If you want to turn a a Well Person into a Severely Mentally Ill Person you can do so automatically with Neuroleptics (aka ‘antipsychotics’).
Dr Richard Bentall took some himself, and he went MAD.
“…Neuro-psychologist Dennis Staker had drug-induced akathisia for two days. His description of his experience was this: “It was the worst feeling I have ever had in my entire life…”
Hi Reed, thanks for the well written and very scary article. Normal Grief becomes Major Depressive Disorder, Potentially Bipolar and almost Schizophrenia.
I took the old tricylics and they made no difference to my mood, and it looks like the SSRI s don’t work for most people either.
I’ve experienced melancholoy, but I don’t think I have ever been clinically depressed, and I don’t know what I would do if I was.
As far as I can see the answer is within the Buddhist Approach, but this might be found under different headings. The Buddhist Approach wouldn’t at all stop me being “ambitious”, I’d have no problem following the two philosophies. But the Buddhist Approach does work!
Most so called madness in industrial societies wouldn’t be considered to be madness in the normal way, unless people wanted to take advantage. There’s also the need for social workers and other professionals to feed off
sick people for their own survival.
My own recovery from “Chronic Schizophrenia” was very quick once I got off drugs suitable for Chronic Schizophrenia and learnt to deal with my Withdrawal High Anxiety.
The Irish family might be one of the better type of families to become ‘sick’ in!
“..Whatever the exact cause or causes, it has also been suggested that the current Mental Health System is NOT adequately addressing the problem…”
“…Antidepressants Increase The Risk of Suicide, Violence and Homicide At All Ages
The FDA admitted in 2007 that SSRIs can cause madness at all ages and that the drugs are very dangerous; otherwise daily monitoring wouldn’t be needed: “Families and caregivers of patients should be advised to look for the emergence of such symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt” … “All patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. The following symptoms, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, and mania, have been reported in adult and pediatric patients being treated with antidepressants” (1).
Such daily monitoring is, however, a fake fix. People cannot be monitored every minute and many have committed SSRI-induced suicide or homicide within a few hours after everyone thought they were perfectly okay.
As the published trial literature related to suicidality and aggression on antidepressants is unreliable, we looked at 64,381 pages of clinical study reports (70 trials) we got from the European Medicines Agency. We showed for the first time that SSRIs in comparison with placebo increase aggression in children and adolescents, odds ratio 2.79 (95% CI 1.62 to 4.81) (2). This is an important finding considering the many school shootings where the killers were on SSRIs.
In a systematic review of placebo-controlled trials in adult healthy volunteers, we showed that antidepressants double the occurrence of events that the FDA has defined as possible precursors to suicide and violence, odds ratio 1.85 (95% CI 1.11 to 3.08)(3). The number needed to treat to harm one healthy adult person was only 16 (95% CI 8 to 100).
Based on the clinical study reports, we showed that adverse effects that increase the risk of suicide and violence were 4-5 times more common with duloxetine than with placebo in trials in middle-aged women with stress urinary incontinence (4). There were also more women on duloxetine who experienced a core or potential psychotic event, relative risk RR 2.25 (95% CI 1.06 to 4.81). The number needed to harm was only seven. It would have been quite impossible to demonstrate how dangerous duloxetine is, if we had only had access to published research. In accordance with our findings, the FDA has previously announced that women who were treated with duloxetine for incontinence in the open-label extension phase of the clinical studies had 2.6 times more suicide attempts than other women of the same age (5).
Looking at precursor events to suicide and violence is just like looking at prognostic factors for heart disease. We say that increased cholesterol, smoking and inactivity increase the risk of heart attacks and heart deaths and therefore recommend people to do something about it. Psychiatric leaders, however, routinely try to get away with untenable arguments. Many say, for example, that antidepressants can be given safely to children arguing that there were no more suicides in the trials, only more suicidal events, as if there was no relation between the two, although we all know that a suicide starts with suicidal thoughts, followed by preparations and one or more attempts. The same can be said about homicide. It can no longer be doubted that antidepressants are dangerous and can cause suicide and homicide at any age (5-7). It is absurd to use drugs for depression that increase the risk of suicide and homicide when we know that cognitive behavioural therapy can halve the risk of suicide in patients who have been admitted after a suicide attempt (8) and when psychotherapy does not increase the risk of murder…”
markps2,
Its extremely difficult to come off them!
“….The second-generation story: Prozac and other second-generation antidepressants are understood to provide, at best, a marginal benefit over placebo in the short term. In government-funded studies, the second-generation antipsychotics were not found to be any more effective than the first generation…”
I was placed 1st Generation Trí cyclic antidepressants many years ago and they made no difference whatsoever to my mood:- Going on them, being on them, and coming off them made no difference whatsoever to my mood!
In the tragic case below I notice the biomedical details are vague:-
The person consumes potentially lethal medication leaves the Psychiatric Unit and ends up DEAD – medically everyone knows the medication is potentially lethal BUT nothing more is said.
The Circumstances and Details are completely confused, BUT that’s OK.
In Civilian Life if a DEAD Body is Discovered It’s NORMAL To Investigate!
(Lethal in Psychiatry can = Intoxicating)
Eckhart Tolle the author of “The Power of Now” has stated (I believe) that a person can find “what he found” – purely from the information in his book. The book itself is cheap but the information in his book can be found also, for free (If necessary) on the internet. I’ve studied his book and what’s in it works.
It’s NOT the “Schizophrenics” that are killing people; its “normal people” under the influence of potentially harmful prescribed drugs.
Michael,
For me, (even beyond compassion) the reality of the situation is that the MH System is “Ineffective” ; and there are other very good ways of overcoming distress most of the time (even today) within the community.
Somebody told me that a lot of the natural healers were targeted as “witches”, and that we have lost a lot of natural healing as a result.
Just look at the ingredients in the food in the Supermarket!
Bamboozled
A doctor friend of mine told me he had a patient diagnosed with Bipolar and that this person wanted to stop taking their medication and that their family supported them in this.
My doctor friend told me that the person started a drug taper but it wasn’t successful and the person became unstable, and even their family wanted them back on the Drugs. I told him that a successful Neuroleptic Drug taper can be a rocky ride and take time.
NO 5. BAMBOOZLING
Thank you for this one Dr Levine. Dr Peter Breggin also has a description for this.
It’s very easy to get fooled by the Diagnosis, the Staff, and the System; but most of all by the Drugs. When I tried to come off these drugs I started to go MAD. So I reasonably came to believe in the Severe Diagnosis.
But I was happy to cut the drugs right down. They were changed along the way, and eventually I noticed that if I didn’t take them I slept less but I felt no worse.
When I checked the drugs out I found they had no ‘psychiatric’ effect at the level I was taking them. I knew then that the Problem had been the very convincing medically created drug dependency.
PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS CAUSE MENTAL ILLNESS AND I CAN SUBSTANTIATE THIS FROM MY OWN RECORDS:-
I think EVERYBODY knows somebody who was more or less okay, until they started taking psychiatric drugs (usually antidepressants), and went from there to being diagnosed more seriously; eventually becoming long term disabled and pathetically Psychiatric.
I “declined” “medication” on my introduction to Psychiatry in 1980. But when I was given permission to come off ALL “medication” in 1983, I quickly ended up in hospital and back on “medication”again.
In early 1984 I was back in hospital again following a suicide attempt.
Later on in 1984 I was suicidal and back in hospital again following an introduction of an alternative “medication”. The Prognosis on the Discharge Summary of this Hospitalisation stated that I would be back in hospital again before long. But I wasn’t.
THE PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS WERE THE PROBLEM
After 1984 I went on weaker oral “medication” and successfully tapered. Coming off strong “medication” meant that I became fit for work, and I returned to gainful employment.
I did develop a problematic HIGH ANXIETY condition as a result of coming off strong neuroleptics. But I was able to recognise the “CATASTROPHISATION” attached to the condition, and to build effective protection around this.
Many years later I wrote to the Registrar who had typed up the Discharge Summary to my last Hospitalization, and he wrote back: that they had been wrong, that I had been misdiagnosed, and that I could have been ‘condemned to disaster’.
The Diagnosis had been SCHIZOPHRENIA ; CHRONIC SCHIZOPHRENIA; ‘SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER’
That’s what they do say!
Below is my own Experience of Long Acting Injections + Akathisia + Genuine Recovery + Medical Uselessness
There’s 2 million Americans in Jail, and 4.5 million Americans on Serious Mental Health Disability; and the
the American Non Mental Health System is also privately managed.
“…. (There are no anti-pediatrics, dermatology or orthopedics movements.) ..” I think one of these might develop some time soon.
“…The burden of mental illness has dramatically increased over the past 35 years, such that “neuropsychiatric disorders are now the leading cause of disability in the United States.” ..”
But once the drugs used to treat the disability are safely removed with some humane support, theres NO more disability! Its like MAGIC!
Thank You Leah, for the work you’ve put into this document. The sunny video promotion with the gay colours is very very smooth.
I personally identify with Akathisia.
Okay
Hi Bob,
Thanks for the great blog.
If the objective isn’t to exterminate at least half of the population; to mechanise all production and manufacturing; and to just have good-looking and obedient people serving the rich :- then it might be very possible to completely reform the Mental Health System.
I think we’d have to move on though, and have some type of non judgemental reconciliation procedure. And then to live in peace.
Advises distressed “schizophrenics” to go out for a walk!
A friend of mine that attends a “support group” said that if you gave a psychologist £50 or £100 and he told you to go home and iron your shirt you’d feel taken advantage off ( – but this is what works).
I came off LAI drugs suitable for “schizophrenia” with straight forward CBT/Buddhist Mindfullness Practice.
If I calculate my 4 grandparents age span years ago in Ireland, on average they lived to their mid eighties with little medical help.
Its sounds like the victims are being held to account. I would imagine the “experience” of pain to be much worse after professional opiod misuse.
Hi Rachel,
“Dry Drunk” is an AA expression not a medical expression, and the treatment for “dry drunkness” is not medication, its adherence to a “Spiritual” way of life.
Hi Rachel,
A person can be seriously browned off, without going out and killing lots of people.
Practically all the shooters are on psychiatric drugs.
Men’s amygdalas are different to women’s and this is why men are more geared up towards taking “action”. This is why men on psychiatric drugs and suffering from the ill effects of these drugs are more likely to commit suicide than women.
Young men again are more likely than older men to “act” as young men are geared up differently, and this is why only younger men can do certain types jobs.
Paxil Boosts Estrogen, May Promote Breast Cancer Growth – would not surprise me at all!
Paxil is not even an antidepressant!
Thanks Jane for relating your experience, and the very helpful “tips”.
“…The US system costs more than twice as much, per person, as the universal coverage provided by the UK’s NHS. Even the government-funded part of the US system costs more per capita than the NHS…
..Why so expensive? It’s because US doctors prescribe more treatments, and those treatments cost much more than they do elsewhere….
…American hospitals and drug companies have enormous leeway to raise prices — insurers have limited bargaining power, and uninsured patients even less…”
(Professor Angus Deaton + Economist Anne Case)
I’m inclined to agree. Any type of control in “Mental Health” is open to exploitation and abuse.
When I engaged in my own psychotherapy I was at least an equal member, and the trainee counsellors were not interested in diagnosis.
I had suffered from a type of anxiety that I had never experienced before – when I withdrew from “medication” “suitable” for “schizophrenia”. My anxiety levels are now very much reduced.
I recovered through my own direction, with good “psychotherapeutic” support.
oldhead
A “Dry Drunk” is an Alcoholic that doesn’t drink but isn’t getting help for their “mental illness”.
“Dry Drunks” are often monsters.
Of all the group’s I believe the Alcohol Abusers are proven to be by far the most “dangerous”. Jails are not full of “scizophrenic” people that have committed seriously violent acts but full of Alcohol Abusers that have committed these acts.
Genetically Donald Trump might be tied in with Alcoholism, and he could even be the worst type of Alcoholic – the Untreated or Dry Drunk Type (of Alcoholic).
…..though most quietly commit suicide.
I’m very sorry about this, but most of the people that Act Out in Public are “normal people” prescribed “antidepressants” for things like work related stress.
These dead end Severe Mental Illnesses are only dead end illnesses in Psychiatry. With a non
Psychiatric approach the long term sickness doesn’t exist.
The technical descriptions seem to me, to “medicalise” the situation.
If a person has a “breakdown” they might benefit from the support of genuine people to get back together again. I think this might be why Soteria is successful.
According to Dr RD Laing, he once took a “chronic schizophrenic” teenager into his family and treated him normally and the “chronic schizophrenic” teenager made full recovery.
The hospital wards are about the promotion of sickness and remaining sick. The rules are likely to be wide open to exploitation and game playing.
Prescripticide
In the Australian case mentioned above, as in most similar cases which carry All the Hallmarks of Akathisia Induced Violence, the information on “medication” is very vague.
The Hallmarks of Akathisia Induced Violence are
1. The Behaviour is Extreme
2. The Behaviour is Out of Character
3. The Behaviour follows the Starting, Stopping or Changing of Psychiatric Medication.
According to my calculations 7.4 million divided by 200, equals 37,000 people in England, attempting suicide as a direct result of taking antidepressants; with 1 in every 20 of these estimated to result in successful suicides, equalling 1,850 deaths, as a direct result of taking antidepressants. This would have to be a national health crisis.
Hi Dr Eric,
I looked at you on Ted and it doesn’t surprise me that you can publish your results. You communicate very well and you look exactly like the kind of person another person could confide in.
THE ROLL OF THE DICE
“…The most dramatic example is suicide. Having no childhood traumas gives a 1% risk of attempting suicide by middle age. One trauma doubles the risk, two traumas doubles it again, on and on until the people with 7 or more traumas are 36 times more likely to attempt suicide than those who have none.17 Thirty-six times more likely!…”
I attempted suicide twice in my 20s in a neuroleptic drug induced state of Acute Akathisia, but I never attempted suicide before starting or since discontinuing the “offending medication”. And I recovered as a result of withdrawing from the drugs. So what category might I be in?
A “nightmare event” occurred to me 6 years ago in my early 50s when I was given a diagnosis of ocular malignant melanoma. I was told that the cancer might have already spread and that I might die; that I might lose my left eye due to treatment; or that considerable vision in my left eye might be lost. I knew at the time that if I started thinking in the state I was in, that I would “go mad”. I was able to hold off my thinking until I levelled off. When I levelled off , I wasn’t happy, but I wasn’t in danger of “going mad” and I knew I could make responsible decisions. Luckily for me the cancer outcome has so far been successful, and without too much damage.
I used the same tactic (of “avoiding my head”) when I was withdrawing from the “offending medication” that had caused my Acute Akathisia in my 20s, as I was going into “Nightmare Mode” regularly at the time.
Last year I visited the Registrar of my last Acute Akathisia hospitalization (34 years previously) (now an eminent Psychiatrist) and he stated in a well written letter that he was confident that I had never suffered from “Schizophrenia” to begin with.
But if I hadn’t withdrawn successfully from the “offending drugs” (through my “dealing with waking nightmare” technique), I wonder if any Psychiatrist would have been in a position to diagnose me as “non Schizophrenic”.
“…This has not helped his popularity with his colleagues, now well into negative territory…”
Does this mean you don’t get invited to the free pharmaceutical pizza outings?
The LINKS below concern a case of “Extreme Violence” which I Suspect could have been triggered by unrecorded/unreported (Depot type) “medication”, rather than “Severe Mental Illness”.
“…the treating psychiatrist appears to have been of the view that her psychotic symptoms were the result of medication she had been prescribed…”
In the case above the “person” had previously been exposed to Depot injection type “medication” and had reacted “Extremely” to it.
I Suspect possible “foul play”: in reference to an example from my own case in Ireland in April 1984 when through the intervention of a Charge Nurse, I was admitted in a state of Acute Akathisia to Galway Psychiatric Unit, though Staff had been previously instructed not to admit me.
48 hours later I discharged myself, never to experience Mental Health hospitalization (or Disability), again.
A few days previous to this hospitalization I had been injected with twice the introductory dose of Depixol Depot “medication” and released into the community (even though I had warned the junior doctor of the dangers).
Had I NOT been admitted at Galway and had the administration of the first time Depixol Injection (by the junior doctor) NOT been recorded I could easily have ended up DEAD with nobody the wiser. (I had previously experienced 2 suicide attempts at Galway in the same state of Acute Akathisia).
In Autumn of 1983 I had laid my (drug) Disability at the door of my Consultant Psychiatrist who had consistently held me responsible for it, and who had expressed this Disabilty as being my main (or only) Mental Health problem.
Notice that when patients do DIE after contact with the Psychiatric Services the investigations tend to be MILD.
“..Along his journey, Dan has realized his attempts were likely caused by the medications he had been prescribed ..”
I never attempted suicide before taking strong psychiatric drugs, and I have never attempted suicide since coming off strong psychiatric drugs.
A stressed parent can pass stress onto their child and most parents do at some level or another.
But it’s the consumption of psychotropic drugs during pregnancy that causes brain damage to children in the womb.
It’s Nice to see you back Dr Niall,
A lot of people say it’s life that causes “depression”.
I have a friend who experienced “Mental Unwellness” throughout his life. In his 50s he retrained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and practices this professionally now.
According to him ‘it’s not possible to be depressed without thinking depressed thoughts’. But over the years I have known him he appears happier and happier.
I overcame my own compulsive anxiety (and melancholy) through Practical Psychotherapy, after withdrawing in the 1980s, from (LAI) drugs suitable for “Schizophrenia”.
I can easily describe the Psychotherapy Process that worked for me. Most Psychologists are probably trained a long these lines.
(In the UK 10 times more 2nd generation Afro Caribbean men “get” “Schizophrenia” than do Indigeneous White Men. In my opinion the medical Treatment and Approach is causing this “Schizophrenia”).
Thank you Dr Timimi,
“…Diagnoses in psychiatry are not diagnoses..”
After 65 years of Neuroleptics (and “Longterm Schizophrenia”) researchers like Professor Robin Murray are now “promoting an idea” that it’s possible to carefully withdraw from Neuroleptics and improve as a result.
Professor Robin Murray also “promotes an idea” that when a person comes off drugs quickly and goes mad – it’s the original presence of the drugs, that is more than likely causing the madness.
Even though It took me 6 years to go from 25mg of Modecate per month to 25mg of Mellaril per day. Anxiety was still a big thing with me. But thankfully I was able to find ways of dealing with it.
Twelve step fellowship supports an idea of “acceptance being the key” – “acceptance in terms of Equanamity” for me is definitely the key.
I was at a 12 step meeting last night and some people present related their experience of being raised on disadvantaged London council estates. They said their neighbour’s might be Drug Dealers or Bank Robbers – but the “Nutters” were the ones everyone was really frightened of.
But since most “Nutters” come off their drugs abruptly without the advice they should be given, then they cannot be held responsible for going mad. I went mad several times when I attempted to stop taking drugs abruptly, with medical support. I had to completely abandon the medical approach to recover.
Trick or Treat
“…A coalition of health bodies wrote to the Government urging it to update legislation to ensure medical workers do not feel ‘vulnerable to the risk of prosecution for unlawful killing’ when treating coronavirus patients ‘in circumstances beyond their control…”. Todays Daily Mail
Health Minister Matt Hancock says:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-9160967/Covid-UK-Hancock-says-law-change-protect-GPs-legal-action-not-necessary.html
https://www.inverness-courier.co.uk/news/national/law-change-to-protect-medics-from-legal-action-not-necessary-hancock-11203/
POTENTIAL NEOLIBERALISM
EMAIL FROM ME TO SITE MANAGER
11 January 2021 13:09
Subject: Possibility of Exposure to Asbestos
Please find attached:
Photo 1 of Ceiling taken on November 30, 2020
Photo 2 of Ceiling taken on January 5, 2021
I talked to you this morning about my concerns regarding the possibility that I had been exposed to asbestos while working on ceilings before and after Christmas at XXX.
This morning at your office you provided me with a large folder from which I had difficulty finding information. I was then provided with an emailed Asbestos Survey which you suggested might be more helpful.
I’ve since looked through the (emailed) Asbestos Survey and I don’t see any relevant samples taken from ceilings in rooms XX (XXX Room) and XX (XXX Room) (as you call them). But I do see photos towards the end of the Survey of ceilings with textured covering all identified as containing Asbestos.
I’m still concerned, as this Survey does not reassure me.
Please return to me on this.
Yours Sincerely
ME
Sent: 12 January 2021 08:22
REPLY FROM SITE MANAGER
Subject: RE: Possibility of Exposure to Asbestos
The survey is carried out by professional company, and they only take sample of material they suspect to contain ACM. So the 2 rooms in question did not have any material which required testing, so would not be logged to have samples taken and analysed.
KIND REGARDS, SITE MANAGER
12 Jan at 09:37
EMAIL TO ME FROM PROJECT MANAGER
Subject: RE: Possibility of Exposure to Asbestos
We also had the XXX surveyor on site yesterday as he is preparing the final report of the removal of all asbestos for information for the O&M manual for the XXX.
I showed him the two rooms and the ‘suspect’ materials you showed in your photos. He had no concerns that these were ACMs. He is a very experienced surveyor, and he carried out the initial survey – they only test or sample substances they deem necessary. The R&D survey was full and complete and all asbestos containing materials present were removed apart from in some underground duct areas, the basement and the 12 main xxxxrooms which have been encapsulated by over-boarding.
You really have no need to be concerned.
REGARDS, PROJECT MANAGER
SURVEY DISCLAIMER
XXX completed this survey on the basis of a specified program of work and terms and conditions agreed with the Client. All reasonable skill and care, bearing in mind the project objectives and the agreed scope of work, have been exercised during the preparation of this survey report.
Following the issue of this survey report, responsibility to any parties for any matters arising, which may be considered outside of the agreed scope of work, will not be accepted by XXX.
This survey report is confidential. XXX will accept liability to no parties with the exception of the Client. Without the written agreement of XXX, no one with the exception of the Client, may rely upon or have the benefit of this survey report.
XXX asserts and retains all copyright, and other intellectual property rights, in and over the survey report and its contents unless these rights were specifically assigned or transferred within the terms of the agreement.
Any questions or matters arising from this survey report should be addressed to XXX.
Thank you Dr Timimi
“…Anything that offers success in our unjust society without trying to change it is not revolutionary..”
“Mindfulness”
Most people I know are at the same economic or social level as I am, some of them work for a living and some of them don’t. If I can be at peace with my “internal situations” I can be happy and focus on my external situations.
Some people might be externally harassed all the time and anyone could end up like this; but a lot of other people aren’t, and can improve the quality of their lives from inside themselves.
The most successful psychotherapy I know of, comes from the completely free 12 Step Movement; which has a lot of internal change attached to it.
I think, this late but eventual acknowledgement from ‘Horowitz, Murray, and Taylor’ is also extremely important
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
That it is possible to come off “antipsychotics” (and make recovery as a result) – but that coming off them abruptly can drive a person MAD.
It’s difficult to rely on people if everything is subterfuge! But it’s always been like this!
MISSD
Dr Wayne W Dyer said ‘Alcoholics Anonymous is where Jesus walks on Earth’. In my opinion Akathisia is where Hell exists on Earth.
The experience of Akathisia cannot be described.
‘Depression Delusion’ by Dr Terry Lynch was one of the best books I ever read. It was available on Amazon at a very reasonable price, and was ‘electric’ all the way through.
IMO the 1 percent of people at the top need good looking servants to look after them and other professionals to do their bidding and thats about it!
85 percent of the work people do, could be reorganised and automated – this work is preserved to keep people occupied.
It sounds like they want to have their cake and eat it!
Thank you for writing this credible account about your experience. I’m very sorry for your suffering, it was dreadful.
I used to think “Psychiatrists” were doctors that could be trusted.
I notice when children are out and about with their parents they often appear happy and good natured, but when they’re mixing with other children in a school setting they often appear small and weak.
Even in the aftermath of the “Haiti disaster” (years ago) the ‘poor’ Haiti child on television looked healthier (to me) than the average ‘European’ school child.
The basic needs in education are the 3 rs: Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. After this anything else that’s needed can be self acquired.
Dr Timimi, this chapter is brilliant and very true.
I don’t personally believe that most people become rich through hard work, I believe that most people become rich through being connected.
When I was at school in the1970s in Ireland the French teacher (in her twenties) encouraged a very boisterous class. There was one particular boy who was extremely boisterous and I wouldn’t repeat (even now) some of the jokes he made in the class (and got away with).
I bumped into him again years ago, in a bar in Ireland. He was drinking beer and he was a lot bigger. He was very friendly and he told me he was living in New York and working in the Bronx as a teacher.
People also seem to be able to come off drugs like cannabis without too much difficulty. But attempting to come off psychiatric drugs can lead to all types of disasters.
If you look at all the people that Genuinely Recover from “terrible Psychiatric Illnesses” on this website – they all
Recover through abandoning Psychiatry.
“Schizophrenia”
Major Tranquillisers are very disabling. How does a person come off them?
Through very careful drug taper and the application of effective psychological techniques to deal with the High Anxiety the process causes.
Where can effective anti anxiety techniques be found?
From Books. From the Internet.
From Buddhist Temples
From Personal Stories
From personal observation.
From Self Help Groups.
From Psychologists
What works for Normal Anxiety – works for Extreme Anxiety.
Straightforward Psychotherapy:-
Most people can identify with “Emotional Reasoning” or “Catastrophisation” – getting stuck on a problem inside in the head, and not being able to work it out, or to put it down.
On withdrawal from strong psychiatric drugs “Emotional Reasoning” can take over.
Straightforward Psychotherapy would be about learning how to put a problem down, until the head levels off, and the problem becomes manageable.
What More Do You Want:-
“Schizophrenia” (which I don’t believe in) is the Big Psychiatric Diagnosis.
I was treated in the Famous Maudsley Hospital 1980, Kings College, London and the Ground Breaking Research NUIG (Regional)
Hospital Ireland 1980/1.
I recovered as a result of responsibly stopping treatment and straightforward Psychotherapy (and have remained well for the past 36 years).
Heavy alcohol use and heavy cocaine use can be linked to “funny thinking” as well as can too much McDonalds.
Heavy Cannabis use might be linked to Cannabis “funny thinking”. But this is NOT “Schizophrenia” its Cannabis “funny thinking”.
The vast majority of “doctors” in “Mental Health” (from what I can see) are doing more harm than good (through ignorance); with most “doctors” in other medicines supporting them.
Major Tranquillisers AKA “Antipsychotics” don’t show any efficacy either. “Antipsychotics” disable people and disable everything else belonging to them.
“Captured Regulators”
https://www.survivingantidepressants.org/topic/6383-dr-yolande-lucire-adverse-reactions-to-psychiatric-drugs/page/3/
“…The origins of the dominant mental health care paradigm of the antidepressant era were identified in multiple forms: fraudulent promotion, biased education by drug companies, captured regulators, institutional ideologies, ghost-written clinical practice guidelines, poor quality product information and drug approval procedures that ensured neither safety nor efficacy….”
A Semantic Quibble? He’s telling lies!
I would imagine, what you have in Toronto is a large anonymous city and “patients in the community” with diagnoses like “Schizophrenia”.
I don’t think Ireland has any law forcing people to take medication outside of hospital; and I’ve often remarked on how in the 1980s it was very uncommon for anyone in crisis to meet police. But at that time everyone (to a certain extent) knew everyone and staff were very diplomatic.
All my hospitalizations bar the first at Ireland, were voluntary – and I made recovery as a result of carefully reducing medication and eventually stopping.
But I also noticed the very high dependency in Ireland (among young men) – on long term injections that eventually turn everyone who takes them into psychiatric patients.
I’m 60 now and most of the “young male patients” I knew in the 1980s have been dead for a long time.
Actually, a lot of the work can now be done by IT and robots. The only reason we need to work is to keep us busy!
“Medication” didn’t work for me.
I remember being amazed when this famous “Psychiatrist”
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthony_Clare
died prematurely in 2007.
In this recent Biography…
Brendan Kelly & Muiris Houston
“Psychiatrist in the Chair The Official Biography of Anthony Clare”
4.0 out of 5 stars (13)
…its claimed Dr Anthony Clare (towards the end) had suffered from “Depression”. I wonder if “medications” might have caused his heart attack at 64 years of age.
(As I got older myself I had to stop taking even minuscule “medication”, because of the heart rhythm problems the “medication” was causing).
The “Antipsychotics” have nearly killed me a few times.
https://insights.ovid.com/clinical-psychopharmacology/jcps/1983/08/000/suicide-associated-akathisia-depot-fluphenazine/6/00004714
I’d imagine in the UK that the emergency services cannot deal with the amount of people in distress begging for help; and I wonder why, at the same time, doctors put so much emphasis on minor indisgressions of “well” people. It’s a conundrum.
Beautiful article Karin,
These labels are too much trouble (I think)!
Aberfan
https://youtu.be/CPjD4QHYCuA
11.35 minutes into this clip a man speaks in a straightforward tone of his daughter being safe, but his son being still trapped in the rubble (while bodies are being removed).
Politicians today, talking about other peoples tragedies often wipe a tear from their eyes.
I agree completely.
Thank You Dana for your Informative Article, I’m very interested in the airing of this subject.
James, Is the Council of Evidence based Psychiatry limited to ‘Professionals’?
Dr Timimi (correction of Above)
Tranquillisers will always fail over time:-
“…Seeman, in his studies of drug-induced dopamine supersensitivity, concluded in 2007 that this was why antipsychotics fail over time….”
I know a chap in London who gets a decent rate for being “mentally ill”, he’s prescribed medication which he can take or not take – and the doctor is happy as well!
James,
As someone thats successfully withdrawn from Neuroleptic Depot Injections and made Longterm Recovery as a result (and can substantiate this), can I become active in the Council and attend your Meetings?
For me Recovery from “Schizophrenia” involved coming off the strong psychiatric drugs very carefully; and learning how to deal with the “High Anxiety”, the exposure to these drugs had caused!
That’s my experience!
When I came back to London in 1986 the ‘Irish Social Worker’ I had seen in 1980 asked me if I still took drugs, and I told him I did take a little prescribed medication; he shook his head and said “no, I mean street drugs”.
He was 100% convinced I had been under the influence of illicit substance when I visited him in 1980. “Schizophrenia” had not at all been on his Radar.
We all know that attacking “witches” in the “middle ages” was ignorant and wrong, but it seems the same thing is going on today and “everyone” accepts it, and its “legally” promoted.
(In the Middle Ages the Witchfinders even had a Special Book they could refer to to prove that the person really was a Witch).
If there’s ‘no such thing’ as Autism then where do the Doctors promoting Autism go? They have no ‘skills’ in any other area.
I wouldn’t (myself) argue with the term Dual Diagnosis, but I would argue with Psychologists mixing themselves up with peer groups.
The Hearing Voices “peer” groups in London are all run by “officials” and are mostly only open during normal working hours. In whose benefit is this?
SpellBinding
One thing that people that take “medication” often recognize is – that when they try to stop taking the “medication” they immediately run into trouble. But this phenomenon can now be scientifically explained :-
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
The only requirement for membership to the AA (as far as I know) – is a desire to stop drinking.
Thank you Dr Timimi,
What I noticed in the Maudsley Hospital in London in 1980 was that it was full of young people who looked like they had nothing wrong with them, describing themselves as “Schizophrenic” and “Manic Depressive”.
I could do without medication in 1980. But when I tried to come off medication in 1983, I found myself running into serious trouble:-
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
Up to $7,000 per month equalling (up to) $84,000 per year – Who Pays??
I thought it was common knowledge that ‘antipsychotics’ often ‘masked’ the symptoms of Tardive Dyskinesia until the drug was withdrawn. Do the new “TD drugs” operate in the same way?
I notice a lot of focus on loneliness these days and it’s a bit like when famous people claim to be BiPolar. The famous people are lovable for having it but an ordinary person might be inferior.
“…While social isolation is a physical and social reality, it does not necessitate that the experience of loneliness ensues….” This is true.
“…The state of agitation that sudden or too-fast withdrawal of the stimulant can induce will look like the “ADHD” coming back with a vengeance, convincing all, including the doctors—few of whom seem to understand the above process—that the child really does need the amphetamine for more “normal” functioning…”
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
“…Neurobiology
The researchers explain that “relapse” of psychotic experiences after discontinuing antipsychotics, especially very soon after stopping the drug, is likely due to withdrawal effects. One strong piece of evidence for this is that people who don’t have psychotic experiences but who are given antipsychotics for other, unrelated conditions (like nausea or lactation problems) sometimes end up experiencing psychosis after stopping the drugs…”
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/article-abstract/2769191
Most people “relapse” when they “stop” taking “their medication”.
Are these drugs likely to cause Tardive Dyskinesia, or make Tardive Dyskinesia worse in the long run?
Great comment, registeredforthissite.
Baby Deaths Tragedy
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2020/11/12/cheshire-hospital-baby-deaths-nurse-appear-court-charged-eight/
Is it possible that ‘legitimate’ medical practice has been the problem here.
Thank you Dr Tamimi,
You explain things very well.
Thank you for this Article,
“…Throughout these writings, she has challenged many assertions of mainstream psychiatry, often to the annoyance of leading figures in the field…”
I can identify!
Thanks,
This is very good information!
It would mean that Black People were NOT 10 times more likely to be diagnosed “Schizophrenic” as white people.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2418996/
“….In 2006, ÆSOP reported a ninefold increase in the risk of developing schizophrenia in black Caribbeans when compared with the white British population:….”
But “Mental Health Care” (IMO) is a load of Bo**ocks, anyway!
“…..indeed probably most of modern medicine is manufactured and shaped and spun by experts….”
If you factor for, infant mortality infectious disease, and accidents you would probably find life expectancy to be better among basic people, 100 years ago, than it is now.
Brilliant Altostrata,
Using the Internet to provide what people need!
Thank you Dr Emaline, I hope I’m not too far off topic.
When I came off Drugs “suitable for Schizophrenia” I still had to learn how to cope with the Disabling Anxiety the exposure to the drugs had caused*.
I learned to cope with the Disabling Anxiety in the same way as someone might learn to cope with Normal Anxiety. So I think “Schizophrenia” might be considered a condition of “Disabling Anxiety” – that easily falls within the scope of human assistance.
When Psychologist Rufus May Phd ..
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufus_May
..advises “Schizophrenics” in distress – his advice is often very simple and straightforward (but maybe not obvious to the distressed person at the time).
When medical doctor and Psychotherapist, Dr Terry Lynch brings a terminal “Schizophrenic” “back to life”, he cheerfully helps the person to gradually build themselves up with tasks, to demonstrate their real ability to them.
*I initially refused strong Psychiatric Drugs (and remained non functional for the years I consumed them, costing the Irish taxpayer a Lot of Money).
“…Walden who lost a son to opioids . . “. They killed lots and lots of people; but if they go to prison – who else might eventually go to prison?
Medically Psychopathic Behaviour
“….An inquest in 2018 ruled that the use of olanzapine was appropriate …”
What the Inquest says is “..if necessary a doctor can kill a patient in MH..”
This is a case that Doctors have been ‘found out’ in, but the reality could be – that they regularly Kill within ‘Mental Health’, and consider it to be their right to do so.
I have presented my own experience previously on Mad In America.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vYO9r1FkdJSv8Bi8Q3c3u9WXNZXkmxvO/view?usp=drivesdk
Insanity or Akathisia
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/courts/criminal-court/deirdre-morley-expected-to-plead-not-guilty-due-to-insanity-of-murdering-her-children-1.4384982?mode=amp
Yes “Compliance”
Someone Else,
The treatments cause “Schizophrenia”:-
I was okay not taking ‘medication’ in 1980, but by 1983 when I tried to come off ‘medication’, I couldn’t survive (inside my head) without it.
This phenomenon has been acknowledged recently by “Experts in the Field”:-
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
The ‘Elephant in the Living Room’ here, has got to be that most “Schizophrenics” that “Act Out” in the Community have recently come off “medication” (and are not suffering from “Insanity” but from “Drug Induced Withdrawal Syndrome” i.e. They Are Innocent).
There are no vitamins in the supermarket!
Thanks Karen,
The whole thing about this “form of medicine”, is to gain “co operation” from the patient.
Schizophrenia is treatable isnt it? So if the person gets treatment they get on with their lives don’t they?
Thank You Dr Timimi,
I’ll need to read this article carefully.
Macdonaldisation:- about 2 million people are in jail in America, 1% percent of people in America are estimated ‘Schizophrenic’ , 1% estimated Autistic, up to 10% with ADHD, several per cent estimated Bipolar, and several per cent Depressed and Anxious. So theres lots of ‘unreliable’ people in the Country.
This is the correct LINK
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
Once a person processed as a Psychiatric Patient tries to come off their “antipsychotics” they will more than likely go MAD.
When a “Schizophrenic” stops taking his “medication” he generally “relapses” – as does a person misdiagnosed with “Schizophrenia” (and put on “medication”).
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
“…Neurobiology
The researchers explain that “relapse” of psychotic experiences after discontinuing antipsychotics, especially very soon after stopping the drug, is likely due to withdrawal effects. One strong piece of evidence for this is that people who don’t have psychotic experiences but who are given antipsychotics for other, unrelated conditions (like nausea or lactation problems) sometimes end up experiencing psychosis after stopping the drugs…”
Apologies if I’m slightly off topic above.
I never really got to sample the “new wonder drugs” because by the time these drugs came to the market I had cut mysdlf down to miniscule non intrusive doses of the really old drugs, and that was good enough for me.
Then the old drugs were removed and I did try miniscule doses of the new drugs.
Ultimately my GPs tried to make out I must be severely unwell mentally because I was prepared to consume very small doses of these new drugs, so I stopped taking the new drugs, but when I did I also discovered that they had no psychiatric effect whatsoever, at the level I had consumed them.
I wondered why my UK GP s were so keen to attempt to discredit me – but as it happens I can see issues in my history that would provide reasons for their behaviour.
Thank you Alex,
CTO’S
A recent Article in Jama Psychiatry from Mark Howoritz, (Sir) Robin Murray, and David Taylor, Scientifically contradicts in my opinion – the use of CTOs.
VERY SLOW AS OPPOSED TO ABRUPT TAPER
The article recommends a Slow Neuroleptic Tapering approach. And “Neuroleptic Withdrawal Induced Psychosis” is acknowledged as a problem / as opposed to “Abrupt Medication Discontinuation Relapse”.
CTO ABRUPT NEUROLEPTIC TAPER
Since most attempted Neuroleptic Withdrawals fall into an Abrupt Category, then these failed Withdrawals do not indicate “Relapse or Return of Illness” but “Problems with Drug Withdrawal”.
THE ARTICLE
https://www.madinamerica.com/2016/12/withdrawal-from-antipsychotics/#
Horowitz, Murray, and Taylor write,
“…As there is some evidence that not all patients need lifelong antipsychotic treatment and some may have improved social functioning when taking less or no antipsychotic, cautious deprescribing should be a component of high-quality prescribing practice….”
ABRUPT TAPER VERSUS VERY SLOW TAPER
My own MH Records reflect:- 4 Hospitalizations a Suicide Attempt and “A Near Miss” in 5 Months, following the Permission to withdraw Abruptly from a Fluphenazine Depot Injection ; and 36 Years of Continual Wellness following my own decision to Taper Very Carefully.
ALSO NEEDED…
In my own case a Very Careful Neuroleptic Taper wasn’t enough, I still need to gain an understanding of how my “Neuroleptic Withdrawal High Anxiety” “Worked” and “What I could do about it”.
The Heading says it!
(I consider “mental health” to be a law into itself -)…
Steve, I notice that I have more or less disappeared from the Discussion section. Is there any reason for this?
…Rain without thunder and lightning.
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/09/slow-taper-best-antipsychotic-discontinuation/
Everything useful presented in this Research, by the World Experts on the Subject, has already been presented on Mad in America (by the “independently recovered”) – but the professional acknowledgement (IMO) is also very worthwhile.
(I consider “Mental Health” to be a law unto itself .
When I complained at a GP Surgery some years ago about genuine misuse of information:- a “doctor” by way of comment recorded to my notes: “…mildly agitated but no sign of thought disorder..”. Which would be like me saying: “..I have full confidence that Dr xxx has not engaged in shoplifting in the past six months..” )
Hi Ted, Scary Stuff.
Singer Bob Geldoff confided that after his wife’s tragic death some years ago he seriously considered suicide as an option – but he wasn’t incarcerated for this.
UK Comedian Russell Brand supposedly has a diagnosis of “Bipolar” and Singer Elton John’s behaviour was supposedly erratic at one time – but neither of these stars were conferred with a (UK type) “Conservativeship”.
Sponging off the Welfare State
Since the Psychiatric system has little success anyway, I believe the genuine “Experts” are the people that reject the Psychiatric system.
I was diagnosed as a relapsing “Schizophrenic” in Western Ireland, until I made Recovery 30 plus years ago as a result of stopping Psychiatric treatment.
At this time 30 plus years ago: My Psychiatrist (a University Researcher) was on the examining board of the Royal College of Psychiatrists; and the Professor of Pharmacology (at the local University), was President of the British Association of Psychopharmacologists.
Psychiatry today is still useless
Another 1st Class exposure, Lawrence.
It’s even possible to develop withdrawal syndrome while consuming drugs like Xanax.
I’d imagine most normal people experience positive and negative social thoughts inside their heads, as people are social beings and life is socially competitive.
In my experience very few qualified doctors are capable of distinguishing between a social thought inside a person’s head and the hearing of Voices outside a person’s head.
Bob
In this recent paper from prominent individuals..
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/343467517_Tapering_Antipsychotic_Treatment
…It is possible for people diagnosed with “Schizophrenia” to survive successfully without “medication” but it would be recommended they withdraw very carefully from neuroleptics, as these drugs can cause weaknesses in the brains systems.
As far as I know the authors don’t recommend any methods for dealing with the “Neuroleptic Exposure High Anxiety”
– this is what’s missing from the paper.
The solutions can be found in Straightforward Psychology.
Sam,
Its amazing how successful the ‘information block’ (in these times) can be. People that ‘rock the boat’ can find themselves permanently unemployable.
“Peer” has got to be mutual support from others with similar experience. The Hearing Voices Network in London is only open during normal working hours, and I believe mostly supervised by non voice hearers. Can this be “peer” support?
Steve
Your account reminds me of my “Rehabilitation” many years ago, when a nurse explained to me that the way to get into work, was to start with half days and extend to full days.
I remember visiting a friend of mind (a shrewd psychiatric survivor) at the time, who advised me to go back to my Specialist and get my restlesness sorted out.
Once the restlessness was sorted out, I didn’t need rehabilitation .
Akithisia is “Stereotypical” – All Psychiatric staff should be able to identify it; and should be prepared to approach doctors neglecting their professional duties.
The main expressed problem my Consultant Psychiatrist had with me (many years ago) was my “inability to maintain routine” – but it was him that was sponging off the Welfare State – NOT me.
Thank you Sam.
Thank you Chris,
Akathisia Killing Fields
I attended a ‘Mental Health Legal Function’ in Central London several years ago where a prominent Mental Health Lawyer/Tribunal Representative provided an informative speech to newly qualified Mental Health Lawyers.
When I brought up the subject of Non Acknowledgement of Akathisia in Involuntary Mental Health Treatment with the speaker – his Answer was automatic and ‘off the cuff’ – he said that if Akathisia were acknowledged, then Doctors would NOT be able to prescribe the ‘medications’, (he then blushed very strongly).
The average family doctor prescriber is not even aware!
MEDICAL MISHAPS
Response to GP s Delisting Letter
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vYO9r1FkdJSv8Bi8Q3c3u9WXNZXkmxvO/view?usp=drivesdk
on the Anniversary of George Colley (Irish TDs) Death in 1983.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Colley
What I mean is: People with Lived Experience of Voices are the suitable Guides in the area of Voices.
Hi Sherry
Thank you for writing this, it is very helpful.
You’re ‘mental health drug withdrawal’ experience sounds as bad as a ‘dreadful illness’. I have my own personal experience of similar.
It’s possible to carefully stop taking drugs ‘suitable for Schizophrenia’; to experience Extreme Anxiety as a result; and to overcome this Extreme Anxiety (through normal Psychological Means).
Thanks Dmitriy,
People with personal experience are the experts not the Psychological or Psychiatric Systems.
“Drug Withdrawal Rebound Relapse Effect” explains the Creation of Schizophrenia.
If most people “relapse” fairly quickly when they come off “medication” – then most people don’t genuinely “relapse”.
This acknowledgement by the “experts” is better late than never.
It took me 6 years 1984 – 1990 to come down from a 25 mg monthly injection of modecate (“suitable for schizophrenia”) to 25mg of oral mellaril per day (suitable for hiccoughs). But my Drug induced disability ended in 1984.
Are the people wishing not to take ‘medication’ ‘psychotic’, or do they just have problems. If they were ‘psychotic’ surely they wouldn’t be able to communicate.
‘Psychotic’ is probably one of the worst things that can be said about a person!
Thanks Jocelyn,
I believe there’s a basic rule in terms of consuming substance; that any substance that makes a person feel better in the Short Term, will eventually make them feel worse in the Long Term.
I “relapsed” several times when I attempted to come off “Neuroleptic Medication” (abruptly) – but I didn’t relapse when I tapered carefully (and learned to cope with Neuroleptic Withdrawal “High Anxiety”):-
“….The researchers explain that “relapse” of psychotic experiences after discontinuing antipsychotics, especially very soon after stopping the drug, is likely due to withdrawal effects….”
I considered myself to be “in the clear” once I was no longer taking disabling doses of medication, because I could get on with my life.
To kill them, maybe.
I believe it’s fairly difficult for a person to pass themselves off as disabled in the UK, other than in the area of Mental Health. I wonder why this is?
Hi Karin, excellent article.
If a person can sit with suffering (even as an experiment) for a period of time, it can be amazing how the suffering can transform into something else.
Most acts of “Mental Health Suicide/Violence/Homicide” in my opinion are caused by Psychiatric Treatments, and society would be far safer without involuntary treatment. I can produce a lot of reliable evidence from my Medical Records to support this opinion.
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/08/deep-sleep-therapy-australia/#comment-177579
“Anosgonosia” could probably be applied to anyone.
There’s been so many deaths on Fluphenazine that retrospectively could be traced to Akathisia and the Drug, that Doctors and Governments are hiding the information and getting away with it.
There’s also an unbelievable Withdrawal Syndrome attached to Fluphenazine WHICH can be overcome with help and patience i.e the “Schizophrenic” can walk again.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vYO9r1FkdJSv8Bi8Q3c3u9WXNZXkmxvO/view?usp=drivesdk
BUT, People are still being criminalized for acting out on these drugs.
Why??
What are their LAWYERS doing?
https://www.thejournal.ie/deirdre-morley-trial-5162196-Jul2020/
“….In 1998, Donald Schell, who had been taking Paxil (an SSRI) for two days, shot and killed his wife, Rita, his daughter, Deborah, and his nine-month-old granddaughter, Alyssa, and then killed himself. In 2001, a Wyoming jury in Tobin vs. SmithKline Beecham found:
“…SmithKline 80% liable for Schell’s actions…holding that ‘Paxil can cause some individuals to commit homicide and/or suicide.’” (here)…”
“…Psychiatrists are defined by their ability to dispense pills ostensibly designed to treat diseases of the mind. ..”
We all know people that have recovered. Did they Recover through taking pills, or not taking Pills?
As well as not taking Pills they would have utilised some type of “saving practise” – would this have been Psychotherapy or Something Else? I think Something Else.
Most recovered people probably found their own way.
*It’s important to only come off ‘medication’ VERY carefully.
Because if you talk about it “they’ll” come and get you.
Thank You Philip,
Fluphenazine began to (discretely) go out of business in 2016. I would say that this drug was responsible for its own Holocaust. I would even say that Fluphenazine probably killed more “diagnosed people” than “the Nazis” did.
Many Thanks Wendy,
It’s good that you survived to tell your story and help other people in the same predicament.
I’m going to study your website.
Hi, interestingly enough I was attempting to look through the life expectancy rates of different UK ethnic groups (in the past few days). I was able to find information on several groups but strangely could not find any reliable information on the Life Expectancy Of UK Afro Caribeannn People.
Chinese men in the UK had the highest disability free life expectancy and Asian women in certain groups had much lower disability free rates even though their life expectancy was the same as average.
But Irish Travellers and Romany People (the traditionally discriminated against), had a VERY low life expectancy of 50 years – for men. This could point to the fact that discriminated people die a lot sooner even, than might be expected.
I hope I’m not too far “off theme” in my comment here.
The Psychiatric Antidepressant approach is a form of Insanity.
I find topical psychiatric SEXUAL discussion a bit amusing as for the time I consumed any level of “therepeutic psychiatric chemotherapy” I was incapable of any type of sexual performance. At this time Sexual fulfillment was also probably the least of my problems.
Good Advice tapernurse and kindredspirit.
“…“While tapering can be uneventful, no doctor can guarantee a safe and successful withdrawal at this time.” Which is good reason the doctors should stop prescribing the SSRIs and SNRIs in the first place…”
Exactly! There’s no point on going on drugs that cause more serious “problems”, than a person has.
The average UK doctor (as far as I know) is not even realistically informed on what AKATHISIA is – and if they were realistically informed, (IMO) they would not prescribe ‘antidepressants’.
Anti depressants can cause suicide and Homicide and this is medically accepted, but when someone on antidrepessants goes mad and kills another person, the “authorities” tend not to know what to do.
Maybe there’s just (unresolved) “anxiety”.
Of Blessed Memory of Julie Greene:- All the Scientific Evidence points to the ‘Medical Approach’ making matters worse; and those that Genuinely Recover, recovering through abandoning the ‘Medical Approach’.
Thank You Robert for the brilliant Article,
In my opinion the Medical Model has proven that it has NO Solutions – only Disability and Early Death.
The Social Determinant Model has proven that it HAS Solutions and can even offer Self Actualization:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Will_Hall
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufus_May
https://www.ted.com/talks/eleanor_longden_the_voices_in_my_head?language=en
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/news/a-first-class-recovery-from-hopeless-case-to-graduate-1808991.html
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Russell_Brand
The Medical Model through Exposure to Psychiatric Drugs can even Cause “Schizophrenia” (similar to Valium causing “Anxiety”):-
From My Own Case:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vYO9r1FkdJSv8Bi8Q3c3u9WXNZXkmxvO/view?usp=drivesdk
As a result of ‘epidemic’ Misdiagnosis IMO:-
Schizophrenia ‘epidemic’ among African Caribbeans spurs prevention policy change
https://www.theguardian.com/society/2009/dec/09/african-caribbean-schizophrenia-policy
Thanks Philip
There’s such a thing as pushy parents pressurizing their children to become professionals when the children are not suitable. But I’ve never heard of this as a source if madness.
Sometimes parents pressurize children that are equipped but that don’t see a professional career as something they would like to be involved in. But these people usually escape successfully.
But lots of so called ‘professionals’ are completely incompetent and still manage to earn a reasonable living.
The Helping Hand
The people that do have genuine recovery are by far the best people to help other people recover – and it usually makes them feel good too.
Dr Philip,
I don’t know if unrealistic career expectations apply to me or not:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1wZEucHIewc9WlFJuCqUU2gB55sQHZA1P/view?usp=drivesdk
The image above presents some of my craftsmanship. Initially the image might appear to represent a special finish (but the blue spots actually represent ‘snags’ that need to be put right).
About time!
I’ve heard it said that there’s an ‘alcoholic’ in every family, if this is true then it would discount a genetic component to ‘serious mental health diagnoses’.
Hi,
In terms of Economics how much does a dependent, non recovered ‘Schizophrenic’ or ‘Bi Polar’ cost the USA per year?
Akathisia is related to the
1. Starting
2. Stopping or
3. Changing of a drug, (it’s ‘traceable’).
So, if Akathisia were genuinely acknowledged, the information could lead to “historical investigations”.
But akathisia is not being genuinely acknowledged, so people are still dying from drug induced suicide, and people are
being blamed (and locked up) for drug induced behaviour that is ‘completely beyond their control’*
*(I’ve attempted suicide twice in a state of Neuroleptic Induced Acute Akathisia in my early 20s, 1980 to 1984.).
The Offending (Akathisia) Drug ‘Fluphenazine’ was still in use after 1983, but it began to be removed from the Worldwide market around 2016 on account of its “unreliable sources of production”.
Dr E Fuller Torrey (might) explain why:-
https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/better-without-antipsychotic-drugs
“…For example, a study published in 1982 reported that when a group of patients with schizophrenia were each given 20 mg of fluphenazine, the difference between the highest and lowest blood level of the drug was 40-fold. Thus, a very low dose of an antipsychotic is sufficient to control the symptoms of many patients with schizophrenia, even if it does not produce full recovery, whereas other patients may require much higher doses to achieve the same effect…”
I’d say, most prescribers don’t understand the dosage blood volume difference, and this might be why so many people ‘GO MAD’ (Akathisia) on ‘antidepressants’ :-
https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/10827889/dublin-deaths-second-note-found-murder/
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/miriam-lord-there-s-nothing-left-but-terrible-questions-1.2778886
Well put, Steven.
My picture of CBT is that it’s the same as traditional psychotherapy but in straight forward terms.
When I “catastrophise”, and recognise that I’m “catastophising” I can definitely do something about it. But I don’t see CBT as an instant ‘cure’.
The “Catastrophisation” I suffered from, had followed my withdrawal from a Long Acting Modecate Depot Injection (“suitable” for “Schizophrenia”).
“..Let’s put this matter in context. For the last four decades or so, research psychiatrists have labored strenuously in their respective areas to uncover the biological pathologies that would validate their various diagnoses, i.e. would prove that they are real illnesses…”
The problem as I see it, is that Psychiatry has NO Solutions. Psychiatric Treatments deteriorate and disable people – and this is why ‘Severe Mental Illness’ is classified as a long term condition.
The Solutions exist only outside of Medical Psychiatry.
Thank you Dr Philip,
I hope I’m not too far off topic here.
I estimate that least 50% of all people become “Schizophrenic” in the same way as I did i.e. through the consumption of strong psychiatric drugs (and the people that recover, usually recover as a result of carefully ‘not taking their medication’).
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2418996/
“…In the most robust UK study to date, the incidence of schizophrenia was found to be ninefold higher in black Caribbeans than in the white British population…”
The above UK study is Bulls**t.
I believe Kanye Wests first Psychiatric Drug prior to the advent of ‘his’ ‘BiPolar’ ‘Mania’ was the Antidepressant Lexapro.
Hi Rose,
Your story sounds like a good warning to anyone thinking about seeing a Psychiatrist with an ‘anxiety problem’. The warning maybe being that ‘the Psychiatrist might not have a clue’.
As soon as I saw Zoloft I was wondering where Zantax was. But you found the right path in the end.
I recovered, in my 20s, through a micro withdrawal process. The Consultant Psychiatrist had offered me the option of Abrupt Withdrawal from a Depot Injection but this proved ‘unsuitable’ (even though depot is supposed to leave the body very slowly).
I’ve noticed that the generally offered abrupt withdrawal (option) from Depot Medication usually ends up badly, but I think this is because the person hasn’t been given a decent chance. So I think that what Psychiatrists describe as ‘Genuine Schizophrenia’ is more a bit of a ‘Lottery’.
Thank You Dr Florence,
“…Without a self-articulated framework, those deemed “mad” will remain subject to the symbolic and material violence of experts…” – Violence / Torture.
If every “Severely And Enduringly Mentally Ill” person can completely recover through non drug (/non physical) means as I was assured by a Clinical Psychologist in Ireland in1983, and as the British Psychological Society (to a large extent) supports – then I wonder why so many Qualified Psychologists appear to behave as if they accept differently?
theloniusmonk,
LACK OF RESPONSIBILITY OR AKATHISIA
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/damages-for-man-whose-wife-drove-off-galway-pier-1.1131888
“…Mr Nugent said Mrs Palmer was admitted to a psychiatric unit at the hospital under the care of Prof Fahy. She was kept there for a week. To the consternation of her husband, her own family and her friends who contacted the hospital, she was released. ..”
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/last-minutes-of-a-woman-tormented-1.1131911
“…”This is hell”, nine times over. “A disgusting waste of two beautiful girls – two human beings” on the reverse. These were among the last words written by Mrs Catherine Palmer, jotted on a note found in her trouser pocket by Garda Michael Harte after her death…”
POLICY OF SUPPRESSION OF AKATHISIA
https://drive.google.com/file/d/18EilU4iOzu3MlTHsq6HtgBFKWk2jAyt5/view?usp=drivesdk
I notice the people that do genuinely recover tend to recover independently, of the Very Expensive UK Mental Health System. In other areas of Medical Achievement the NHS is considered to be maybe the best in the world.
Thank you Sarah, your writing is very easy to read and register. It seems that the result, of whats on offer from Psychiatry by way of help, is equivalent to some type of industrial disaster.
I notice the UK seems to be making consistent Human Rights Progress (Directly Questioning Fixed Beliefs with Scientific Evidence):-
https://connect.springerpub.com/content/sgrehpp/21/2/64
BRITISH PSYCHOLOGICAL SOCIETY
https://www.bps.org.uk/what-psychology/understanding-psychosis-and-schizophrenia
“…Understanding Psychosis and Schizophrenia. The problems we think of as ‘psychosis’ – hearing voices, believing things that others find strange, or appearing out of touch with reality – can be understood in the same way as other psychological problems such as anxiety or shyness…”
M I N D
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/antipsychotics/alternatives-to-antipsychotics/
“…What if I don’t want to take medication?
Many psychiatrists believe that severe mental health problems like schizophrenia must be treated with medication, but if you don’t want to take antipsychotics, there are alternative treatments you can try. You may find it’s possible to manage your symptoms, or to make a full recovery, without medication. This page covers:
Talking treatments
Arts therapies
Ecotherapy
Complementary and alternative therapies
Peer support groups
Healthy lifestyle changes…”
RUFUS MAY: Living Mindfully With Voices
https://youtu.be/hNp-7DT2u8E
OPEN DIALOGUE UK
https://www.nelft.nhs.uk/dialoguefirst-whatisopendialogue/
“…For example, 72 per cent of those with first episode psychosis treated via an Open Dialogue approach returned to work or study within two years, despite significantly lower rates of medication and hospitalisation compared to treatment as usual…”
theloniusmonk,
I came off my Modecate Depot Injection (with permission), because of its disabling side effects in late 1983, and ended up in hospital fairly quickly afterwards. I was put back on an increased dosage of Modecate while in hospital – and I experienced an Akathisia induced suicide attempt in early 1984.
I then tried to come off the Modecate Injection again, but I couldn’t, so I asked my doctors for a medication with less side effects. Another medication Depixol Depot Injection was recommended – but after taking the Depixol injection I became suicidal (with Akathisia) and I had to fight my way back into hospital (where I stayed for less than 2 days).
I then asked doctors to prescribe me an Oral “medication” which they did, but I found I also suffered from “Drug Withdrawal High Anxiety”. This “High Anxiety” could have driven me MAD, had I not learnt how to deal with it.
I was able to function with the Oral medication and as my ability to deal with my “High Anxiety” improved, I was able to cut the Oral Medication down very gradually, to eventually nothing.
Doctor David Healy was around during my “Drug Withdrawal” at Galway Ireland Regional Hospital 1983/1984, and I visited him with my notes, in Wales in 2018. Dr Healy provided me with a letter stating that he was confident that I had never suffered from Severe Mental Illness to begin with, and that it was likely that the treatment had been the problem.
But, if I hadn’t learnt how to overcome my ” Drug Induced High Anxiety” through Psychological Means, I’m sure I wouldn’t have been in a position to challenge any “Diagnosis” – I would more than likely have been DEAD.
https://www.bps.org.uk/what-psychology/understanding-psychosis-and-schizophrenia
“…Understanding Psychosis and Schizophrenia. The problems we think of as ‘psychosis’ – hearing voices, believing things that others find strange, or appearing out of touch with reality – can be understood in the same way as other psychological problems such as anxiety or shyness…”
Thank you Sam.
EMOTION AND THE DIGITAL AGE
Thanks Professor Ian Tucker and Dr Tim Beck for the great Article.
I was reading about Jack Dorsey CEO of ‘Twitter’ and ‘Square’ and how he lives.
He walks five miles to work several days a week.
He only eats one meal per day during the week (usually chicken and vegetables or salad), and doesn’t eat at all on Saturday.
He does 2 hours Vipassana Meditation every day, and for his holiday he went to a 10 day, all day meditation retreat.
He’s one of the richest people in America but his main enjoyments could probably be practised by anyone.
(He has a very nice house also, I believe, and he might date supermodels).
In a tribal society a creative person can have value especially when the tribe is under pressure, but in an industrial society people that don’t conform are an “excess to requirements”. “Schizophrenia” was invented around the same time as the industrial revolution.
There were lots of other things around prior to the industrial revolution, but no “schizophrenia”. Once the medications arrived – the job was done. The “schizophrenics” could be “switched off”.
Neuroleptics AKA “Antipsychotics” (according to my verifiable experience) CAUSE the Symptoms associated with “those at Risk of Psychosis”, they do not alleviate them.
I felt okay not taking “antipsychotics” to begin with. But when I attempted to come off them some years later (abruptly, with permission), I had 4 hospitalizations in 5 months a suicide attempt and an almost suicide.
It took me 6 years to carefully withdraw from a dosage suitable for “schizophrenia”. But I wouldn’t have made it, if I had not come to the realization that I was suffering from the “High Anxiety” of “antipsychotic drug withdrawal”.
I had never previously experienced anything like this Anxiety. My exposure to these drugs could have driven me MAD.
To cope with the High Anxiety of Neuroleptic drug Withdrawal, I had to learn to sit with “acutely uncomfortable feelings”, and to “stay out of my head” at the same time. When I “balanced off” my thinking would return to a “hypothetical level”, which was always safe for me.
I Recovered as a result of stopping Neuroleptic / Psychotogenic Drugs.
Thanks Megan,
Brilliant article, and well worth reading.
I can identify with the predicament.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-40495539
“….Statistics suggest a black man in the UK is 17 times more likely than a white man to be diagnosed with a serious mental health condition such as schizophrenia or bipolar…”
John Weir Perry, Stan Groff, David Lukoff, Richard Bentall, Sinead Gallagher.
https://www.bps.org.uk/what-psychology/understanding-psychosis-and-schizophrenia
“….The problems we think of as ‘psychosis’ – hearing voices, believing things that others find strange, or appearing out of touch with reality – can be understood in the same way as other psychological problems such as anxiety or shyness…”
Someone Else,
“….How an industry can claim to “know everything about the meds,” yet…”
You’ve hit the nail on the head!
The situation is Ridiculous!
Thanks Sam.
Some people claim that “Antidepressants are prescribed like sweets”. But taking these Drugs can have long term affects:-
APPLYING TO JOIN THE ESSEX POLICE
QUESTION
I am taking antidepressants for depression. My depression is really well controlled. Would this affect my application?
ANSWER
Each decision is made after a careful consideration of the facts. The severity of the condition is reflected by the type of antidepressant, its strength and the duration of treatment in addition to many other factors.
We would also consider the 2004 Home Office guidance which generally advises against accepting recruits whilst they are still being treated with antidepressants and for a period after stopping them. We recognise that this is guidance but guidance holds a particular status in law.
The main goal of the assessment is to determine your mental resilience and the probability of further episodes of impaired mental health. Police work is like no other and good mental resilience and emotional stability are paramount.
“…This was so clear that the US FDA demanded that a black box warning be put onto the label…”
These drugs can also cause Homicide:- The Characteristics of Akathisia induced Behaviour are:-
1. The Behaviour follows the stopping starting or changing of a “Psychiatric Medication”
2. The Behaviour is Extreme
3.The Behaviour is out of Character
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/dublin-child-deaths-andrew-mcginley-deirdre-morley-found-dead-a9307746.html
https://www.thejournal.ie/alan-hawe-exhumed-3381862-May2017
https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/mayo-father-suspected-of-killing-wife-attacking-son-then-taking-own-life-35191796.html
https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/courts/son-has-no-memory-of-murder-suicide-that-killed-parents-36338933.html
What Neuroleptic drugs do is create conditions of “Indifference”. So a person is not worried about what’s on their minds, or anything else.
Buddhist Psychology/Philosophy encourages a state of “Equanamity” where a person is aware of their circumstances but accepting of them. From this position problems are not too difficult to deal with.
Dr Robin Murray towards the end of his career also acknowledged the existence of “Neuroleptic Withdrawal Syndrome”. This condition is IMO, what holds people in “Long Term Severe Mental Illness”.
The Black Psychiatrists and MH Workers In my Opinion are likely to do as much damage as the White Psychiatrists and MH Workers.
https://youtu.be/bKxhclFU0Lc
There’s nothing also to say that a Qualified Doctor, is any better than a Library Assistant at helping a person get through Emotional Distress.
BBC News – UK imposes sanctions against human rights abusers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-53303100
We already know that Neuroleptics like Olanzapine shrink the Brain:
https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/antipsychotics-and-shrinking-brain
We know that Neuroleptics cause Suicide and Homicide:
https://insights.ovid.com/clinical-psychopharmacology/jcps/1983/08/000/suicide-associated-akathisia-depot-fluphenazine/6/00004714
https://rxisk.org/akathisia/
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akathisia
We know we have Non Drug solutions:
https://www.bacp.co.uk/bacp-journals/therapy-today/2019/february-2019/who-needs-a-diagnosis/
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2018.01675/full
https://theawarenesscentre.com/introduction-to-psychosis/
https://scholar.google.co.uk/scholar?q=open+dialogue+schizophrenia&hl=en&as_sdt=0&as_vis=1&oi=scholart#d=gs_qabs&u=%23p%3DtoeFJCtwkDoJ
Thanks Sinéad,
Your experience must have been full of great suffering but as a Psychologist you’ve gone through the eye of the needle and come out the other side. How many so called experts can claim this?
I’m a bit of a fan of Eckhart Tolles myself. Though, I’m still trying to see exactly what he’s got.
I hope to come across more of you on Mad in America!
The UK seems to be one of the countries that’s consistently making advances in “Mental Health”.
I doubt my heart would be functioning on 1000mg per day!
Jill, I was prescribed 25mg of Seroquel per day and I was taking about 6 mg of Seroquel per day (I used to bite it in 4). When I stopped the Seroquel I still had years of unsuccessful sleeping.
6mg Seroquel taken 10 minutes before I went to bed, used to knock me out.
Well done Angela. And thank you for telling us about it.
Klonopin sounds like a good drug to start off with – to drive a person MAD.
https://newrepublic.com/article/156829/happened-jordan-peterson
I was given permission to come off my meds abruptly, and I didn’t last long. But it worked when I slowly tapered over many years. I also found workable answers for my ‘High Anxiety’ within Psychology and Self Help.
And thank you also James!
Psychiatric Care Fails to Address High Suicide Rates of Native Alaskans. Psychiatric care as I understand it might make matters worse.
Thank You Jill, it really is Snakes And Ladders.
Psychiatric Abuse goes hand in hand with Diagnosis, and this is why (in my opinion), “Schizophrenia” should be internationally outlawed.
There’s been a mass chemical Killing of people labelled with “Schizophrenia” by Psychiatry in the past 60 years that would equal a tiny fraction of the “mercy killings genocide” which took place in parts of Europe in the 1930s.
SCIENTIFICALLY
“Anti Psychotic” Drugs cause Suicide and Homicide (Akathisia), Disability, Ill Health and Early Death.
“Akathisia Suicides” are ‘philosophically’ covered up through a Policy of Psychiatric Corruption and Self Interest, and “Akathisia Violence” is blamed on the “Patient”.
Coming off “Antipsychotic” Drugs responsibly can lead to Full Recovery. A Fact that has been demonstrated many times on this Website.
“Anti Psychotic” Drugs can also cause “Schizophrenia” in the Misdiagnosed – Black People are NOT 9 times more likely to develop “Schizophrenia”:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2418996/
“…In 2006, ÆSOP reported a ninefold increase in the risk of developing schizophrenia in black Caribbeans when compared with the white British population..”
I’ve been on these drugs myself. I was disabled while I took them, and I found it extremely difficult to come off them.
I notice that most people that genuinely Recover as a result of stopping “medication” Recover in similar ways.
A problem I can see with the “Hearing Voices Network” in London is that they only seem to have meetings “during normal working hours”, whereas most Peer Groups have meetings outside of normal working hours.
Most people are unlikely to be available between 9am and 6pm to attend a London HVN Meeting, so the potential for people to gain or to contribute is very limited.
Thank You Madison Natarajan,
I appreciate your inverted comma treatment of ‘Psychosis’.
I noticed this on the MIND WEBSITE:-
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/drugs-and-treatments/antipsychotics/alternatives-to-antipsychotics/
“..What if I don’t want to take medication?
Many psychiatrists believe that severe mental health problems like schizophrenia must be treated with medication, but if you don’t want to take antipsychotics, there are alternative treatments you can try.
You may find it’s possible to manage your symptoms, or to make a full recovery, without medication. This page covers:
Talking treatments
Arts therapies
Ecotherapy
Complementary and alternative therapies
Peer support groups
Healthy lifestyle changes…”
Thank You Linda,
I’m very sorry for your loss.
I’m glad you got out, and wrote constructively about the misery. Your book will help others.
Nobody gets much better in the Psychiatric system as far as I can see. I know I didn’t.
Thanks Dr Ana,
I wonder if the GP prescribers know anything about AKATHISIA?
I would describe the people in the Study not as “Psychotic” but maybe with distress.
Two of the most exclusive eye hospitals in the world The Western Eye Hospital and Moorefields Eye Hospital are based at London in the UK.
When I attended both of these NHS Eye Hospitals with eye problems and mentioned, that Psychotropic drugs I had consumed in the early 1980s had affected my eyesight, doctors at both of these hospitals kept what I said off my Records and entered negative Mental Health entries instead.
At Moorefields Eye Hospital the Consultant himself recorded “takes Seroquel for his Psychiatric Problems” into my Notes. Whereas my prescription of Seroquel at 25 mg per day – would NOT have been suitable for any “Psychiatric Problem” whatsoever. Seroquel at 25mg per day is only used for Off Label Purposes.
The Consultants casual approach might reasonably predict the actual standard of medical care available to a person “with Psychiatric Problems” in some Nhs medical facilities in the UK.
I came off neuroleptics with basic Psychotherapy but “people” can “Fu*k Off” with the term “Psychosis”.
But this is Very Good News!
Neuroleptics are not needed as Mad in America has continually maintained, and we’re getting to a point where “Schizophrenia” doesn’t exist.
I think the term “Psychotic” is widely misused. If a person can benefit from communication then surely they are not “Psychotic”.
IMO the answers to Depression and Anxiety, were ‘invented’ in India, and are available more or less for free. And we are very grateful in the West to be able to access them.
https://youtu.be/b5qmbEt3Dyg
Thank you Liam,
I support and admire Kerry O’Malley.
You describe nasty and vindictive behaviour from the Psychiatric Authorities against a senior citizen. Its like the entire system is corruptly stacked against a “target”. If Kerry survives it proves “them” wrong.
I can’t agree either, with the notion that psychiatric drugs make people safer. It’s well established that psychiatric drugs can cause Suicide and Homicide; and shorten life expectancy considerably.
The LINK below represents how a ‘humane helping hand’ can have an extremely successful outcome:-
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/05/do-antipsychotics-protect-against-early-death-a-review-of-the-evidence/#comment-171623
Thank you again for presenting this Article.
Fair play to the Australian Health Minister for supporting an ‘open minded’ investigation into the increase in Suicide among young Australians.
Death
On 14 June 2020, Rajput, aged 34, was found dead hanging from the ceiling fan in his home in Bandra, Mumbai.[67] He had reportedly been suffering from depression for about six months. No suicide note has been found as of 15 June 2020.[68] According to Mumbai Police IPS officer Vinay Chaubey, medical prescriptions and medical reports were found in Sushant’s room and an investigation is underway.[69][70]
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sushant_Singh_Rajput
Sam,
It’s Dr Shipman type behaviour:-
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Shipman
He also explains things in simple English.
“…One policy conclusion that could be drawn from this study is that the attempt to use drugs to make mental patients less dangerous is the obverse of what is needed. ..” – Completely true again.
Psychiatric medications (usually taken for “work stress”) can cause Suicide Violence and Homicide in people with no underlying “mental illness” or violent tendencies.
Completely true. Jails are not full of violent “schizophrenics”, they are full of people that attack other people when they are drunk.
Thank You Noel,
https://www.theguardian.com/healthcare-network/2014/oct/28/tackle-mental-health-inequality-black-people
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
“..Early death, by up to 25 years, is frequently found to be associated with long-term use of neuroleptics/tranquilizers (euphemistically called “anti-psychotics)…”
Drug induced Suicide (Akathisia) in the first few years after Diagnosis contributes also to the early death figure. Below is a LINK concerning my own experience, demonstrating Psychiatrists being prepared to set up situations whereby complainants can be killed:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1vYO9r1FkdJSv8Bi8Q3c3u9WXNZXkmxvO/view?usp=drivesdk
I can only presume “this Practice” to be “Common Medical Practice”.
Thank You Ashley,
Psychiatric Drug induced Suicide, Homicide and Violence tend to be closely related. Society would be a lot safer without “antidepressants”.
Sam
When they present studies concerning “antidepressants” and recovery rates and scientific percentages I think they’re “waffling”.
“Antidepressants” have never established themselves as having any value in terms of effectiveness.
In my opinion the Epidemic in Irish Suicide and Familicide can be directly traced to the commonplace use of Psychiatric Drugs in the “normal population”.
BBC News – US Supreme Court backs protection for LGBT workers
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-53055632
“..An employer who fires an individual for being homosexual or transgender fires that person for traits or actions it would not have questioned in members of a different sex,” he wrote…”
Society is full of potentially gratuitously dangerous people without “Mental Illness”. Whats so special about the “Mentally Ill”?
I’m sure it’s possible to improve life without taking a moral perspective!
.
“Anosgonosia” reminds me of a “neologism” and if you put this along with thinking cats have “schizophrenia” then E Fuller Torrey is definitely “schizophrenic”.
Thank You, John and Irving and James
You are part of a group of ethical professionals and activists that are patiently and successfully turning the tables on very bad behaviour in “Mental Health”. The results of this in my opinion, can be clearly seen in the UK.
“…In reviewing the studies it was sometimes the case that only the treating psychiatrist was rating the effectiveness of the procedure, not the patient…”
– Which in the case of electric shock would be fairly “useless”.
As regards “symptoms”; if a person is okay with a “symptom”, and it doesn’t affect anyone else; is there anything “wrong” with the symptom?
Dear Sera, thank you for writing this.
Its true that none of us are saints, some of us get away with our misdeeds, and some of us get sent to jail.
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2015/05/11/overkill-atul-gawande
“…Virtually every family in the country, the research indicates, has been subject to overtesting and overtreatment in one form or another. The costs appear to take thousands of dollars out of the paychecks of every household each year. …”
Thanks Will and Faith,
As usual this is a very well written Article.
I remember (reading) from your own experience Will, that you were incarcerated as a ‘seriously unwell’ person until the insurance money ran out, and then you were “released”.
According to this Research
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16507962/
a ‘schizophrenic’ is 20 times more likely to be extremely distressed as a result of taking psychiatric drugs than never haven taken them at all.
Lifetime Suicide Rates in Treated Schizophrenia: 1875-1924 and 1994-1998 Cohorts Compared
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16507962/
Results: The suicide rate in schizophrenia between 1875 and 1924 was 20 per 100 000 hospital years, a lifetime rate of less than 0.5%. The suicide rate for all psychoses was 16 per 100 000 hospital years. Current rates of suicide for schizophrenia and other psychoses appear 20-fold higher.
(‘Schizophrenics’ that don’t ever take medication are 20 times less likely to Kill themselves Or other people).
In the UK ‘Severe Mental Illness’ Diagnosis of Black People is supposed to be at least 10 times that for White People. This difference is what I’d be wondering about as regards ‘black suicidality’ in the USA, as I know from my own observation and personal experience that Psychiatric drugs can cause ‘irresistible’ suicide.
Dr Richard,
Against Psychiatric Treatments
I don’t see it as a question of “Either/Or”, as most people that consume strong psychiatric drugs are likely to remain longterm psychiatrically disabled (costing the country about £75,000 per person per year or about £3 million per person, in the course of their lives, if they live long enough).
In the past 36 years I have cost the Irish/Uk taxpayer nothing in Mental health terms – as a result of carefully leaving psychiatry.
If “basic psychotherapy” works with “neuroleptic withdrawal syndrome”, I don’t see why it wouldn’t work with “original problems”.
SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS FRAUD “LICENCE TO KILL”
From: [My Email Address – Removed]
To: Medical Newton (NHS CENTRAL LONDON (WESTMINSTER) CCG)
Sent: Friday, 16 November 2018, 00:42:07 GMT
Subject: Att. All Partners and Dr Baluch
Dear Sirs/(Madams)
In your Letter dated October 17 2018 – you seriously misrepresent me.
TRUST
My trust in Newton Medical was broken in October of 2012 when (to my horror) I discovered my name had been on a Severe Mental Illness Register since 2002. At this time (2002) I had been working as a Building Subcontractor in the **House of Parliament Buildings (and can substantiate this).
OCTOBER 8 2018 VISIT TO NEWTON MEDICAL. REGARDING HEALTH AND SAFETY ON BUILDING SITES
On October 8 2018 I explained (and showed ) to the Reception Manager and to Dr Baluch at Newton Medical, that at my last appointment on **July 20 2016 Dr Simons had given me in writing a sheet of paper from the Appointment Notes stating that – “he could see no reason that I could NOT work on a Building Site” . While at the same time Dr Simons had provided me with another sheet of paper from a “Legal Adviser” (July 20 2016)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s-mEHH5pLC5EzWpxjnOLKcylQOTJ-Kvw/view?usp=drivesdk
(which made reference to the historical 1986 Irish Record Summary) but also at the the bottom of the page stated – that I had a “Diagnosis of Schizophrenia…” and “had NOT DISPUTED this diagnosis..”.
I explained on October 8 2018 that I had shown and discussed both of these contradictory statements received in July 20 2016 with a Building Health and Safety Officer who advised me to get this contradictory situation resolved – as the medical suggestions could undermine my credibility, and could affect me in the event of an accident on a Building Site.
I have not suffered any disability in my 30 years in the UK; but Medical Claims of Present day Severe Mental Illness are invalidating. I presumed Newton Medical (promoting the disability) to be the first place to approach – this is why I called to the Surgery on October 8 2018.
DISTRESS
When I clearly demonstrated the Malpractice properties of the 1986 Irish Record Summary to Dr Simons in two interviews in October/November 2012 – at the end of both of these interviews Dr Simons shirt was completely saturated and sticking to his body (he was genuinely traumatised).
But, there is no mention anywhere on my records of this Malpractice.
MY BACKGROUND
I made Full Recovery in 1984 as a Result of carefully tapering from the Modecate Depot Injection with the help of Practical Psychotherapy – and returned to normal life and independence.
Recovered 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PW-wn9GOkiyWAbdzgXuC8cDS-7UPEj0-/view?usp=drivesdk
Recovered 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19xYpA4O4h9h45b_H2PtSBTNFx3ErE-MK/view?usp=drivesdk
Adverse Drug Reaction Warning Request Letter sent to Galway Nov. 8 1986
ADR Request ltr Pg 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAZlVTbHdBRDFFSHc/view?usp=drivesdk
ADR Request ltr Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAZ0otNjFyN0NJajA/view?usp=drivesdk
ADR Request Ltr Pg 3
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAcExwMzhEMVRzdm8/view?usp=drivesdk
MALPRACTICE:
The Irish Record Summary dated November 24 1986 was Sent To UK In Response:- but WITHOUT Requested ADR WARNING
Irish Record Summary Pg 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBATlNoNTlpYy11X28/view?usp=drivesdk
Irish Record Summary Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAMmlqS18xQVZlcms/view?usp=drivesdk
Wellness Presentation at Galway in November 1980, according to Dr Fadel
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBANjBTZEtkbjBhMkU/view?usp=drivesdk
Dr Donlon Kenny False Reasurrance Letter November 1986
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAeUFLam5rYmtXd3c/view?usp=drivesdk
AKATHISIA.
Near Fatal Modecate Experience 1. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EY4XDLt04KgmCjg_5wXU-kbVezo_DxL4/view?usp=drivesdk
Near Fatal Modecate Experience Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YTWxPJTtNeTDM9eewkHoSUJr0WpBpu4b/view?usp=drivesdk
Dr Allen Frances (DSM IV) 1983 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/16313058_Suicide_Associated_with_Akathisia_and_Depot_Fluphenazine_Treatment
https://rxisk.org/akathisia/
“…Significant symptoms of akathisia occur in:
around 20% of people on an antidepressant.
at least 50% of people on an antipsychotic. On higher doses, this rises to 80% or more..”
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akathisia
“..Around half of people on antipsychotics develop the condition…”
“…..Neuro-psychologist Dennis Staker had drug-induced akathisia for two days. His description of his experience was this:
“..It was the worst feeling I have ever had in my entire life. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy…” ”
Drug induced Akathisia is medically acknowledged to cause suicide.
“Depot Antipsychotic Revisited Research Paper 1998” From Galway Psychiatrist Dr PA Carney.
https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/ps.49.10.1361-b.
About 4 out of 10 of the people on these drugs will attempt Suicide.
I notice that both Dr Simon Gordon and Dr Balucha are on the GP Commissioning Governing Board.
Yours Sincerely
[My Name – Removed]
**[July 20 2016 Dr Appointment
https://drive.google.com/file/d/18TeVVBAWA2yV0_J2fQ6wpOcZIsGBrOnz/view?usp=drivesdk
2003 Hse of Parliament Subcontractor ID Card
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dIKVdMN5g0GzwfU_6iUKfudLSuKjmwf0/view?usp=drivesdk%5D
Dr Bentall
I see you sampled a “medical miracle” some years ago, and that it drove you MAD.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10565099
I sampled a lot more than you, it drove me MAD as well and seriously physically and mentally disabled me.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/101EsIwUNkE85-cDy2EyraYtYH0r7sPXp/view?usp=drivesdk
I attempted to come off strong drugs in 1983 but when I did, my brain was completely broken, and I didn’t last long. I managed on my third attempt in 1984 though, with a careful drug taper; and through a similar ‘psychotherepeutic process’ – as described in “The Untethered Soul” by Michael Singer and “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle.
Dr David Healy did not administer the Haloperidol I consumed in 1980/81, but he was around at Galway in 1984 when I moved towards independance.
Dr Healy provided me with a professional Letter at Bangor, Wales in 2018 stating that he was confident I had never originally suffered from “Severe Mental Illness”. This was exactly what the Irish Priest I had visited in Central London in 1980 had also maintained.
What Happened to Me?
I spent the Summer of 1980 in Amsterdam but there is no mention of this on the English side of my Medical Records ¿¿¿
In 1986 Pharmacology Professor at Galway University Brian Leonard was President of the British Association of Psychopharmacologists.¿¿,
In 1985 my Psychiatrist at Galway, Dr PA Carney was on the examining board of the UK Royal College of Psychiatrists.¿¿
(If a person can recover from ‘Schizophrenia’ with basic Psychotherapy then this would be the way forward).
In my opinion there is no such thing as “Schizophrenia”. The reason I was able to come off strong psychiatric drugs (and recover) was because I was able to find a way to deal with my Neuroleptic Drug Withdrawal Anxiety.
Prior to coming off strong Psychiatric drugs I was diagnosed as ‘the worst schizophrenic in Ireland’.
PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS CAUSING “ILLNESS”
https://www.theguardian.com/healthcare-network/2014/oct/28/tackle-mental-health-inequality-black-people
CLAIM
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
NONSENSE
Black Men are NOT 17 times more likely to suffer from Genuine “Psychosis” as white men, but once they enter the psychiatric system they are as likely as anyone else to remain “PSYCHIATRIC”.
“Schizophrenia” is either a life long chronic disease or it’s not. A person with a diagnosis of “Schizophrenia” either remains long-term chronically mentally ill or they don’t.
Psychiatric drugs In my experience are disabling to the extent that a person cannot function normally when they take them, and psychiatric drugs also have withdrawal syndromes which can make it almost impossible for a person to stop taking them.
I think the fact that doctors are not aware of the overall problems with psychiatric drug treatment and dependency and long term outcomes, indicates how poor the standard of “Mental Health medicine” is.
Please help,
I attended a Maudsley debate where Dr John Read debated, alongside a very genuine Lady doctor who had been seriously damaged by ECT. I believe she attested that she did make a recovery through psychological means. But I don’t remember this Lady’s name off hand.
“…the only danger is a slightly higher risk of suicide when people first start taking it, because they feel so much better…”
I’ve heard this before – its just clever talk!
(I have never attempted suicide OFF medication).
Hi Marcello,
The thing about the Recovery movement is that the people have really hard times and they can all completely Recover (no matter how crazy they are).
All the people in “Normal People” are Normal but they could all be “Diagnosed”.
https://youtu.be/HBsuJGyoCrQ
https://youtu.be/4_2TARYSd2o
It’s the ghost of Dr Shipman.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Shipman
And Fact No 15
https://www.theguardian.com/healthcare-network/2014/oct/28/tackle-mental-health-inequality-black-people
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
Which speaks for itself.
How About Fact No 14
Psychiatry administers physical treatments that “work” through completely disabling an individual; rather than offering non physical treatments, that are proven to completely recover an individual.
Berzerk
I think at this stage the GP s are mostly ‘bought and sold’. They might be aware that anti depressants are “trouble” but they mightn’t consider themselves to be in much of a position to do anything about the situation.
“…For Evan, my take is his parents’ and the larger Durst family’s refusal to discuss the probable murder of his beloved Aunt Kathie by his uncle caused analogous problems for Evan…”
How would any reasonable child cope with the “normalisation” of “family member murder”?
Thank you Peter, it’s only determined effort that has brought the fatal dangers of these drugs to the surface.
“…2.5 times as likely to attempt suicide ..” this is not a good advert for antidepressants.
Thank you for this worthwhile article, Francesca.
Its nice to see you back on Mad In America.
You make a lot of sense.
I can identify with the drug disability you describe, this is most peoples main problem.
It took me 6 years to cut from 25mg per month of Fluphenazine LAI injection (suitable for Schizophrenia), to 25mg per day of Thoradazine (suitable for Hiccoughs).
Thank you for presenting this, Jim.
Its amazing what groups of people and institutions can do, and get away with.
SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS FRAUD – AS HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSE
RESPONSE TO GP DELISTING LETTER:
From: [Name Removed]
To: Medical Newton (NHS CENTRAL LONDON (WESTMINSTER) CCG)
Sent: Friday, 16 November 2018, 00:42:07 GMT
Subject: Att. All Partners and Dr Baluch
Dear Sirs/(Madams)
In your Letter dated October 17 2018 – you seriously misrepresent me.
TRUST
My trust in Newton Medical was broken in October of 2012 when (to my horror) I discovered my name had been on a Severe Mental Illness Register since 2002. At this time (2002) I had been working as a Building Subcontractor in the House of Parliament Buildings (and can substantiate this).
OCTOBER 8 2018 VISIT TO NEWTON MEDICAL. REGARDING HEALTH AND SAFETY ON BUILDING SITES
On October 8 2018 I explained (and showed ) to the Reception Manager and to Dr Baluch at Newton Medical, that at my last appointment on July 20 2016 Dr Simons had given me in writing a sheet of paper from the Appointment Notes stating that – “he could see no reason that I could NOT work on a Building Site” . While at the same time Dr Simons had provided me with another sheet of paper from a “Legal Adviser” (July 20 2016)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s-mEHH5pLC5EzWpxjnOLKcylQOTJ-Kvw/view?usp=drivesdk
(which made reference to the historical 1986 Irish Record Summary) but also at the the bottom of the page stated – that I had a “Diagnosis of Schizophrenia…” and “had NOT DISPUTED this diagnosis..”.
I explained on October 8 2018 that I had shown and discussed both of these contradictory statements received in July 20 2016 with a Building Health and Safety Officer who advised me to get this contradictory situation resolved – as the medical suggestions could undermine my credibility, and could affect me in the event of an accident on a Building Site.
I have not suffered any disability in my 30 years in the UK; but Medical Claims of Present day Severe Mental Illness are invalidating. I presumed Newton Medical (promoting the disability) to be the first place to approach – this is why I called to the Surgery on October 8 2018.
DISTRESS
When I clearly demonstrated the Malpractice properties of the 1986 Irish Record Summary to Dr Simons in two interviews in October/November 2012 – at the end of both of these interviews Dr Simons shirt was completely saturated and sticking to his body (he was genuinely traumatised).
But, there is no mention anywhere on my records of this Malpractice.
MY BACKGROUND
I made Full Recovery in 1984 as a Result of carefully tapering from the Modecate Depot Injection with the help of Practical Psychotherapy – and returned to normal life and independence.
Recovered 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PW-wn9GOkiyWAbdzgXuC8cDS-7UPEj0-/view?usp=drivesdk
Recovered 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19xYpA4O4h9h45b_H2PtSBTNFx3ErE-MK/view?usp=drivesdk
Adverse Drug Reaction Warning Request Letter sent to Galway Nov. 8 1986
ADR Request ltr Pg 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAZlVTbHdBRDFFSHc/view?usp=drivesdk
ADR Request ltr Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAZ0otNjFyN0NJajA/view?usp=drivesdk
ADR Request Ltr Pg 3
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAcExwMzhEMVRzdm8/view?usp=drivesdk
MALPRACTICE:
The Irish Record Summary dated November 24 1986 was Sent To UK In Response:- but WITHOUT Requested ADR WARNING
Irish Record Summary Pg 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBATlNoNTlpYy11X28/view?usp=drivesdk
Irish Record Summary Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAMmlqS18xQVZlcms/view?usp=drivesdk
Wellness Presentation at Galway in November 1980, according to Dr Fadel https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBANjBTZEtkbjBhMkU/view?usp=drivesdk
Dr Donlon Kenny False Reasurrance Letter November 1986
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAeUFLam5rYmtXd3c/view?usp=drivesdk
AKATHISIA.
Near Fatal Modecate Experience 1. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EY4XDLt04KgmCjg_5wXU-kbVezo_DxL4/view?usp=drivesdk
Near Fatal Modecate Experience Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YTWxPJTtNeTDM9eewkHoSUJr0WpBpu4b/view?usp=drivesdk
Dr Allen Frances (DSM IV) 1983 https://www.researchgate.net/publication/16313058_Suicide_Associated_with_Akathisia_and_Depot_Fluphenazine_Treatment
https://rxisk.org/akathisia/
“…Significant symptoms of akathisia occur in:
around 20% of people on an antidepressant.
at least 50% of people on an antipsychotic. On higher doses, this rises to 80% or more..”
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akathisia
“..Around half of people on antipsychotics develop the condition…”
“…..Neuro-psychologist Dennis Staker had drug-induced akathisia for two days. His description of his experience was this:
“..It was the worst feeling I have ever had in my entire life. I wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy…” ”
Drug induced Akathisia is medically acknowledged to cause suicide.
“Depot Antipsychotic Revisited Research Paper 1998” From Galway Psychiatrist Dr PA Carney.
https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/ps.49.10.1361-b.
About 4 out of 10 of the people on these drugs will attempt Suicide.
I notice that both Dr Simon Gordon and Dr Balucha are on the GP Commissioning Governing Board.
Yours Sincerely
[Name Removed]
Hi Jon, Great Article!
What about number 13.
13. Psychiatric Drug Treatments cause the Mental Illness that they are supposed to Cure:
https://matanuskaforensicscience.com/the-curious-incident-of-the-neuroleptic-prescription/
“…To compound neuroleptics’ ‘sledgehammer’ approach, neurons are very adept at growing new receptors to compensate for those that are blocked. Psychotic symptoms then rebound with a vengeance. …”
BUT
this Approach from Eckhart Tolle in dealing with the Pain Body, might sound crazy, but actually works (with practice):
https://www.newworldlibrary.com/Blog/tabid/767/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/438/DISSOLVING-THE-PAIN-BODY-An-excerpt-from-THE-POWER-OF-NOW-by-Eckhart-Tolle.aspx#.XtAefB7TUwA
“…This accumulated pain is a negative energy field that occupies your body and mind. If you look on it as an invisible entity in its own right, you are getting
and accidents are often created in this way. Some pain-bodies drive their hosts to suicide.
When you thought you knew a person and then you are suddenly confronted with this alien, nasty creature for the first time, you are in for quite a shock. However, it’s more important to observe it in yourself than in someone else. Watch out for any sign of unhappiness in yourself, in whatever form — it may be the awakening pain-body. This can take the form of irritation, impatience, a somber mood, a desire to hurt, anger, rage, depression, a need to have some drama in your relationship, and so on. Catch it the moment it awakens from its dormant state.
The pain-body wants to survive, just like every other entity in existence, and it can only survive if it gets you to unconsciously identify with it. It can then rise up, take you over, “become you,” and live through you. It needs to get its “food” through you. It will feed on any experience that resonates with its own kind of energy, anything that creates further pain in whatever form: anger, destructiveness, hatred, grief, emotional drama, violence, and even illness. So the pain-body, when it has taken you over, will create a situation in your life that reflects back its own energy frequency for it to feed on. Pain can only feed on pain. Pain cannot feed on joy. It finds it quite indigestible.
Once the pain-body has taken you over, you want more pain. You become a victim or a perpetrator. You want to inflict pain, or you want to suffer pain, or both. There isn’t really much difference between the two. You are not conscious of this, of course, and will vehemently claim that you do not want pain. But look closely and you will find that your thinking and behavior are designed to keep the pain going, for yourself and others. If you were truly conscious of it, the pattern would dissolve, for to want more pain is insanity, and nobody is consciously insane.
The pain-body, which is the dark shadow cast by the ego, is actually afraid of the light of your consciousness. It is afraid of being found out. Its survival depends on your unconscious identification with it, as well as on your unconscious fear of facing the pain that lives in you. But if you don’t face it, if you don’t bring the light of your consciousness into the pain, you will be forced to relive it again and again. The pain-body may seem to you like a dangerous monster that you cannot bear to look at, but I assure you that it is an insubstantial phantom that cannot prevail against the power of your presence.
Some spiritual teachings state that all pain is ultimately an illusion, and this is true. The question is: Is it true for you? A mere belief doesn’t make it true. Do you want to experience pain for the rest of your life and keep saying that it is an illusion? Does that free you from the pain? What we are concerned with here is how you can realize this truth — that is, make it real in your own experience.
So the pain-body doesn’t want you to observe it directly and see it for what it is. The moment you observe it, feel its energy field within you, and take your attention into it, the identification is broken. A higher dimension of consciousness has come in. I call it presence. You are now the witness or the watcher of the pain-body. This means that it cannot use you anymore by pretending to be you, and it can no longer replenish itself through you. You have found your own innermost strength. You have accessed the power of Now. …”
The fact that “Antidepressants” can cause suicide is a bit like – a “sick joke”.
To be completely honest, I cannot identify with non psychiatric ‘medication’ induced Suicide.
I know people often find life very hard, but most of the time they don’t kill themselves.
I know I can cope without neuroleptics, with the help of ‘basic psychology’ – so I’d wonder how many MH Workers are up to the job.
“….To compound neuroleptics’ ‘sledgehammer’ approach, neurons are very adept at growing new receptors to compensate for those that are blocked. Psychotic symptoms then rebound with a vengeance….”
I am incapable of imagining suicide in “Mental Health”, not being related to Psychiatric Drugs.
Hi Sera,
I’m not a therapist, but I can see why this might be a tricky question.
The main problem I see is the Control and Authority thing in ‘Mental Health’, otherwise I’d imagine it would be perfectly okay to ask the question (if it was suitable) and to advise, or support a person as they would like.
(I recall seeing an article some time ago on a BBC Website where seemingly a lot of young British people privately dwell on suicide – but obviously most don’t go ahead with it).
Samantha,
I can tell you for a fact that Psychiatric drugs cause Suicide and Mental Illness.
I have had regular suicidal hospitalizations, on the drugs below..
https://insights.ovid.com/clinical-psychopharmacology/jcps/1983/08/000/suicide-associated-akathisia-depot-fluphenazine/6/00004714
..but never before going on them (1960 to 1980) or since coming off them (1984 to 2020).
The paper seems to suggest that ‘schizophrenia’ might actually exist as a type of neurological condition – but if this is the case then what about Open Dialogue, The Hearing Voices Network and other Psychological solutions that are proven to work? Where do these fit in?
I know from coming off Neuroleptics myself, that it is possible to learn ‘to cope’ with the ‘Horrors of Neuroleptic Withdrawal Syndrome’ through ‘very careful drug withdrawal, and suitable anxiety management techniques’.
‘Psychosis’ itself is a transitory symptom, but ‘neuroleptic induced dopamine supersensitivity’ is not.
ABOUT TIME!
It’s a lot simpler in the UK:
The General Medical Council is Mad
https://drive.google.com/file/d/19z2lYT1AcTQLq2nv6j_2SYvBMVbyKN8y/view?usp=drivesdk
Neesa, thanks for your story.
I’ve heard a few people talk about meditations triggering ‘psychosis’ and its not too surprising when you think about it. I also know from my own experience that antidepressants and different psychiatric drugs can trigger “lunacy”, and quitting them can also trigger “lunacy”.
I was only able to come off “my own schizophrenic drugs” (very slowly); when I learned how to cope with my very severe “drug withdrawal anxiety”.
I wish you Good Luck in the future.
(I must check out the Reiki)
Hi Sera,
“….People avoiding care for fear of committment…”
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
I’m not even registered with a Doctor in the UK, because of my experience of “game playing of mental illness”.
CHARACTERISTICS OF AKATHISIA INDUCED SUICIDE
1. Out of Character
2. Dramatic
3. Follows: i. Starting, ii. Stopping,
iii. Changing, a ‘Medication’
…but, there are solutions.
https://www.theguardian.com/healthcare-network/2014/oct/28/tackle-mental-health-inequality-black-people
“..Black men in Britain are 17 times more likely than white counterparts to be diagnosed with a psychotic illness…”
It is acknowledged though, that “alcoholics” that learn to live without alcohol, often live happy and productive lives.
Lack of long-term outcome data means you have no idea what the “treatment” is likely to do to you and your brain!
“….Anatomy of an Epidemic gives facts and figures on the astonishing rise in social security disability cases due to mental illness. Whitaker makes a comparison between the advent of Prozac in 1987 and the subsequent 37-fold increase in disability cases…”
Most of these people (the “mentally” disabled) will die in treatment.
…as in make genuine and complete Recovery.
This is known as Papal Infallability!
According to the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous:- the end of the line for an Alcoholic comes when he can’t live with alcohol and he can’t live without it. This is known as the “Jumping off Point”, when the alcoholic feels life is no longer worth living. But if the hopeless Alcoholic is lucky his new life is just about to begin.
Euthanasia or Government Sponsored Suicide is now available for lots of European people, even young physically fit adults who have now arrived at the “end of the line” with “Mental Illness”, Trauma, Depression Antidepressants (and other psychotropics). But it is very possible to turn this corner.
In the middle ages an elixir was discovered in Ireland and Scotland and it became known as the “Water of Life” or “Uisce Beatha”.
It gave pleasure and happiness and friendliness to people who consumed it, and it also had medicinal qualities.
But most reasonable people were aware that it should be used very carefully, as too much of it could cause harm.
The “potion” was known for short as “Uisce”, and in English the pronunciation became “Whisky”.
And you can’t contradict the Pope because the Pope is divinely guided by God.
Sam, I promise you I was a lot less of a risk to myself off strong “medications”!
Hi Eric,
Its nice to see you back again.
“…..the relapse rate after taking pills for depression is two to three times higher than with psychotherapy. Similar results are found for treating anxiety….”
I think the “relapse rate” might be worse for anxiety: Psychologist Dr Jordan Peterson developed severe anxiety from his anti anxiety “medication”, while still on the “medication”.
(I have suffered badly myself from the effects of psychiatric drugs, and I wouldn’t recommend them to anyone).
Thank You Dr Gail,
It must have taken a lot of courage to write this!
‘Anyone’ could be diagnosed as mentally ill for saying they believed that they were not mentally ill.
I live in London (UK) where the majority of ‘normal men’ have ‘histories of violence’; this can be seen from the ‘battle scars’ on their faces. How can a ‘MH risk of violence’ be determined in settings like this?
My own suicidal hospitalisations (and MH disability) stopped when I stopped taking “my medication”.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
My GP had to fiddle my History and the rules, to promote ‘Mental Illness’, many many years later.
Vipassana:
How the Normal Persons Mind Wanders
https://youtu.be/DNwp_nysiik
“…this person looked at me..this means something is happening…I wonder what they are up to….”
Psychiatry:-
How the Schizophrenic Persons Mind Wanders
https://mentalillnesspolicy.org/medical/schizophrenia-delusions.html
“…The person with schizophrenia, however, not only hears the cough but may immediately decide it must be a signal of some kind,..”
I wonder how a person can practice “meditation” if they are on psychiatric drugs; and if meditation is used instead of psychiatric drugs, I wonder if this would not contradict the “doctors position”.
Thanks Julie,
Your best work was towards the end.
Steve
I don’t see my original comment in the discussion area.
Overcoming “Schizophrenia” doesn’t have to cost 1 Penny, and it can be done without the help of “western” psychiatrists, psychologists, psychotherapists etc.
Dr Ayurdhi,
I attended a ‘Brahma Kumari’ stress management course in Central London a few years ago, where a young lady explained how the Brahma Kumari believed Stress ‘worked’.
She said that when something upsets us, its not the thing itself we’re bothered about. But, that we’re bothered because the thing opens up historical stress that’s within us. And the way to deal with the Stress is to accommodate it in the present.
Then she said “You see we are all Schizophrenics in real life”.
I myself have been told that I never originally suffered from “Schizophrenia”. But I have been exposed to heavy duty “schizophrenic” drugs and been diagnosed worse and worse during my psychiatric experience.
I recovered when I stopped taking the strong “schizophrenic” “medications” and then I suffered from quite a Lot of Catastrophic Stress. And as far as I can tell the Brahma Kumari Lady was 100 per cent right.
Hi Harry,
Thanks for telling your personal story and I’m glad you survived.
Have you come across the box set “Normal People” where everyone is “normal” but they still have to go through the wringer.
Ryan Air Boss Michael O Leary went to Trinity and that’s Irelands Oxford, that’s the kind of posh chums you might have – if you got that extra mark.
But the only ‘psychology’ that’s factually worth anything comes from the “non western” world!
Yes Julie (sadly departed),
You describe it exactly, as it is.
[I had 'something' similar with a doctor some years ago when I made a realistic and legitimate complaint. The doctor recorded me in my notes following this verbal complaint as "..mildly agitated but with no sign of thought disorder...", so I complained again expressing it in writing.
And that seemed to 'work'....]
If traditional methods can cure mental distress (as they can), then disabling and harmful chemical methods are unnecessary.
Thanks for this David,
“….We are now all the 100%. In today’s world, if you are not crazy you may be nuts!…”
Brilliant!
Steve,
Oprah Winfrey doesn’t seem to criticise Psychiatry.
Deepak Choprah seriously questions western medicine but does not seem to criticise Psychiatry.
Even Jordan Peterson after his dreadful drug withdrawal experience is not critising Psychiatry (too much).
The majority of politicians would be too legitimately frightened to challenge Psychiatry.
Thank you Dr Paula, I like this article.
I think the American voters more or less knew ‘capacity wise’ what they were getting when they voted Donald Trump in, and he doesn’t seem to have changed much over the years as President.
I wouldn’t trust the average Psychiatrist to be competent to judge the Capacity of an American President, as most are at least intentionally deluded.
I’m very interested to see though, whether Donald Trump will get voted in again.
Is it not illegal to hit children in Canada (as in most western countries)?
I believe I saw an article recently in the BBC that said that bad eating habits were more deadly than smoking and drinking (combined).
The only really worthwhile research in this area, has got to be successful Peer Research.
Blooding people involves getting them to commit ‘acts’ that tie them into a group.
This is (tragically) interesting because I have had 4 first cousins from one side of my family that have lost their lives on antidepressants, and none of them had much wrong with themselves to begin with.
No first cousins on the other side of my family died in similar circumstances, but at the time, these relatives would not have had access to ‘psycho tropic’ medical opinion.
.
Thanks Erin,
I really like this article, especially at the end when you recover, as a result of stopping ‘medication’.
Dear Malcolm
I’m very sorry for your loss. I have attempted suicide while suffering from drug induced acute akathisia more than once, and if I was in the same position again I would probably attempt suicide again.
Licence To Kill
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
I D Card 2002/03
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Ipdpq614usATMmJKEbIvVR1QfXr46Ej5/view?usp=drivesdk
“…This device was reportedly able to intervene directly in neurophysiological processes, creating certain emotional states such as calmness or elation, as well as behavioral reactions in animals and human beings…” ..and potentially states of Brain Damage.
Thanks Caroline,
You’ll get there in the end!
I would judge the psychiatric drugging of children for any reason to be many times more harmful than corporal punishment of children.
But I don’t think corporal punishment is in any way justifiable as effective, it’s more to do with adult satisfaction in physical abuse.
Theres probably a very good reason the USA army bans Seroquel.
In my experience even on very low non therapeutic doses of 25% of 25mg per day, these drugs can cause very frightening irregular heart rythm.
“HIGH ANXIETY”
The reason a lot of people find it difficult to withdraw from “antipsychotics” is because of “Antipsychotic” Withdrawal symptoms of overwhelming “High Anxiety”.
When I suffered from .my own “Withdrawal High Anxiety” I was eventually able to to see that if I didn’t engage with the Anxiety at the time; it eventually ran out of steam; and I was able to intuitively deal with whatever the problem was.
“Antipsychotics” Cause Suicide and “Mental Illness”
According (I believe) to Dr David Healy “antipsychotics” are 20 times more likely (than not) to cause suicide in “Schizophrenia”
I attempted suicide several times on “Antipsychotics” 1980 to 1984. I never attempted suicide before taking “antipsychotics” 1960 to 1980 or after successfully stopping “Antipsychotics” 1984 to 2020.
I recovered as a result of successfully stopping “antipsychotics” in 1984, and have remained well since.
Robert, What Might An Alternative To “Antipsychotics” Be?
From Dr Terry Lynchs Book “SelfHood”
Below:-
“Paranoid Schizophrenia” Recovery through Practical Psychotherapy Explained
“…I referred briefly to Stephen’s story in the chapter on self-generated security. Prior to attending me in his late thirties, Stephen had been diagnosed five years previously as having paranoid schizophrenia.
The level of loss of the components of selfhood, including the ability to make oneself feel safe, is at the extreme end of the scale in people diagnosed as suffering from schizophrenia.
He attended me to explore possible avenues of recovery. I could see how Stephen was diagnosed as having paranoid schizophrenia.
He saw threat and danger everywhere, when objectively there was none. Stephen’s level of selfhood was at rock bottom, and this was a fundamental underlying reason for his problems. His paranoia was entirely understandable as seen from his perspective, given that one of his main experiences was that he constantly felt unsafe, unprotected and unable to generate any personal security for himself. This was borne out in his second session with me.
As I mentioned briefly in the section on self-generated security, ten minutes into the session, Stephen looked terrified, and I asked him why. He replied ‘I’m not sure I can get out of this place alive’.
There were only the two of us in my office, and nobody in the waiting room. Objectively, there was no threat to Stephen, but he genuinely felt terrified for his life. He described the raw terror he felt almost constantly. I focused on enabling Stephen to progressively raise his level of selfhood. In particular, I worked with him on self-protection and self-generated security, because his lack of these dominated his life, the reason for his fear-filled thinking. I reassured him many times that in general he was much safer than he thought he was. We explored the various experiences of terror and paranoia in detail.
Stephen gradually comprehended that he was indeed much safer within these situations than he had thought. I explained to him that his terror-filled, paranoid thoughts were an outward projection of his inner fear and self-doubt. In public places, he would often have thoughts such as ‘they’re talking about me. I can tell by the way they are laughing that they are laughing at me’. Now, he realized that what he was feeling was more accurately expressed as ‘I feel extremely unsafe, insecure and unprotected right now. I feel terrified, and I’m scared that there could be threats to me here in this crowded place’.
This change in his understanding brought about a considerable shift. Previously, his thinking was preoccupied by the supposed threat that could lie around every corner. Now he was bringing his attention back to himself and what he was actually experiencing. Stephen was now aware of his own terror and inability to make himself feel safe, whereas previously he was not aware of this and instead was entirely focused on the dangers that lay waiting relentlessly for him everywhere. As Stephen was now truly aware of the role he played in his paranoid thinking, we had something substantial to work on. I used every possible opportunity to discuss self-protection and self-generated security with him.
We explored his experiences of paranoia in great detail as they occurred. Our work became firmly grounded on what had actually happened within himself and his personal space in a given situation, rather than focusing on his projections into, and his assumptions about, others and the outside world. People experiencing paranoia also experience their thinking speeding up, reflecting their terror.
Thoughts keep coming, in an ever-more-frantic cascading sequence. The person creates an entire scenario in their minds based on their initial first thoughts. The initial thought may be somewhat based on reality.
For example, a person across the bar happens to look in their direction. The person runs with this, creating a complicated sequence of events in their minds, a fantasy created under the influence of immense terror and great lack of inner safety. In a matter of minutes, sometimes seconds, they become convinced that there is a sinister plot to harm them in some way.
I used these experiences to get Stephen thinking about the accuracy of his interpretations of these episodes. I explained the futility and the dangers of attempting to read people’s minds, a habit that generally results in erroneous conclusions. He began to experiment with these ideas in areas where it really mattered, in the real world. In public places, Stephen would remember our conversations, notice how he was feeling, and whether or not he was attempting to read the minds of others.
For example, when in a bar and a paranoid thought sequence was beginning to gather pace, he was able to stop for a minute, bring his attention back to himself. He could now connect with what was going on for him, look around him, and reassure himself that at this moment, he was not in any danger. In contrast, like a rabbit caught in headlights, Stephen would previously have become increasingly transfixed by an unfolding scenario outside of himself, that he was actually creating through outward projection of his feeling unsafe.
I had encouraged Stephen to see things as they were, to resist the temptation to read into people’s actions and gestures and create his own fictional version of events. His previous pattern of projection had being going on constantly for him, but at an unaware level. He did not realize that he was doing this himself. For example, if a person looked at him and then looked left, he often concluded that this meant he was in trouble. If they turned their face to the right, it meant he would probably be okay, for now at least. Stephen believed that he was just tuning in to what was really out there in the world, but he was in fact creating this scenario himself. I suggested to Stephen that he needed to separate out the other person’s action from the meaning that he (and not the other person) was placing on this action.
I explained that he was relinquishing his power over himself to other people, most of whom neither wanted this power nor were aware that they were being dragged into this situation.
Stephen grasped these ideas and applied them in real-life situations, and in time he was able to extricate himself from his previous pattern of terror-based paranoid thinking.
We explored methods of raising his level of self-protection and self-generated security. These included repeatedly reminding himself that he lived within his personal space and boundary, that this was his space, that he was safe within this space, and that there was much he could do in any given situation to make himself safe.
When feeling unsafe, he would appraise the situation, see things and people as they were and be aware that any meaning he attached to them was entirely his creation and had little or nothing to do with other people or the situation. He reassured himself repeatedly every day that he was safe, that he could make himself safe and protect himself in any situation. When he experienced an episode of extreme fear or paranoia, he practised what we had done together many times in my office.
He separated what was really there from the story he had created, and then reassured himself several times that what he feared would happen had not actually come to pass.
This practise had the desired effect. His level of self-protection and self-generated security began to increase, slowly at first, then gathering pace. Stephen made considerable progress in raising his level of selfhood, of which, for him, self-protection and self-generated security were key factors.
Because he was doing well, his psychiatrist agreed to reduce his medication slightly, and I subsequently continued the process of gradually reducing Stephen’s medication.
Stephen has been off all schizophrenia medication for over three years. He lives a full life, goes where he likes, thrives in social situations, and has a level of selfhood higher that at any previous time in his life…”
Thanks Linda,
You’ve really been through the wringer – but you made it!
You had to figure it out for yourself. I remember a doctor friend of mine telling me that these drugs are one of the most dangerous drugs a person can take (we were discussing Ketogenic diet and epilepsy).
This article is very informative and very helpful.
Yes Oldhead,
CONSIRACY TO MURDER
https://t.co/1OcasracEG
8 YEARS
LICENCE TO KILL
https://t.co/xkmwZpLSHL
NOTHING
Thanks Annette, this is a fantastic Article.
You seem very tolerant even to those people that have nearly destroyed you. You might be right in the idea that they did not know what they were doing. I have come across some dreadful behaviour myself from very experienced clinical experts.
With nearly 20% of USA Adults on Psychotropics then maybe 40% + must have sampled them at one time or another, so you’re not the only one that’s almost DIED.
This is a British Ladies Extremely Credible Near Fatal Experience on “Anti depressants”
https://youtu.be/M1rAAPklkGQ
Thanks Again.
Thank You Dr Paula,
I think I can go some way in ‘establishing’ with documentary evidence, from Registered Doctors and the General Medical Council, that ‘Mental Health Diagnosis’ is completely unreliable:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YE0yvwaIRnpY7RjtS0TfKi8ZWMoVD1k5/view?usp=drivesdk
.
The Schizophrenic GP & The Schizophrenic General Medical Council & The Unreliability of ‘Schizophrenic Diagnosis’
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YE0yvwaIRnpY7RjtS0TfKi8ZWMoVD1k5/view?usp=drivesdk
Schizophrenia is the ‘bread and butter’ of Psychiatry.
I was diagnosed as the “worst schizophrenic in Ireland” by Galway University Neuroscients in 1984, and then went on to make full recovery.
Dr David Healy wrote me a Letter in 2018 saying that I never had it to begin with. Dr Healy was present at the Psychiatric Unit at Galway in 1984 during my last very brief instay.
They often say that the man in the street is the best judge of mental illness or recovery.
In 1986 I went to see a priest/’social worker’ in London who I had previously visited in 1980 prior to admission to the Maudsley Psychiatric Hospital, and who knew me.
The Priest asked me in 1986 if I was still taking drugs, I told him that I took a little medication. He said he didn’t mean medication, that he meant illegal drugs. I told him I had never taken illegal drugs, but the priest didnt believe me. The notion of Mental Illness had never occurred to him!
By that token Corinna, if a person were to work as a waiter they mightn’t have recovered.
Dependency on the Psychiatric System might imply non recovery. But dependency on the system and treatments could be as a result of the system and the treatments.
I’m anonymous on Mad In America because my background is my own business.
I’m a Catholic and I believe my religion promotes a certain amount of suffering in life – so if you can get on successfully with your life as you describe, then you have definitely conquered “schizophrenia”!
I’d love to read another article from you on how you did conquer “schizophrenia”. Because I would be completely amazed that anyone on “schizophrenic” medication would be capable of functioning at your level. So you must have either quit medication or survived on low doses.
Anyway I hope to see you again on MIA.
About 25% of people are vulnerable 75% are not.
Hi Steve,
A lot if the ‘psychotherapy’ I got was from ‘books’ and from ‘trial and error’, and from 12 Step groups and Buddhist Philosophy.
The thing about 12 Step groups is that what’s shared in the group is reasonably safe (providing its ‘personally emotional’) as nobody can ‘grass’ another person up, because everyone one there is ‘crazy’ anyway.
I dont have much time (bar a few innovators) for Psychiatrists anyway, because of my own experience within the MH system, and my recovery outside of the system.
I dont know much about Donald Trump other than what I see in the media, but I’d be interested to see how much support he gets in the coming election.
It seems very strange to me that everythings shut down. The world has never experienced this kind of thing before – so I’m wondering what its about.
It makes sense to me to genuinely protect all those that are vulnerable from infection – but to allow life to go on as well.
I’ve heard progressive therapists state from their own experience, that nobody ever ‘breaks down’ without justifiable life history reason.
If I hadn’t been able to access ‘basic Psychotherapy’ when I stopped taking ‘Antipsychotics’, I would have had to go back on ‘Antipsychotics’ and Disability Benefit.
In my experience basic inexpensive ‘Psychotherapy’ works and ‘Antipsychotics’ disable.
Psychotherapy (innovators not included) is more or less owned by the DSM.
Hi Dr Philip, nice to see you back on MIA again.
‘Depression Delusion’ by Dr Terry Lynch is one of the best books I ever read.
From Dr Terrys book “SELFHOOD”: –
“PARANOID SCHIZOPHRENIA” RECOVERY STORY
“….Stephen looked terrified, and I asked him why. He replied ‘I’m not sure I can get out of this place alive’. There were only the two of us in my office, and nobody in the waiting room. Objectively, there was no threat to Stephen, but he genuinely felt terrified for his life. He described the raw terror he felt almost constantly….
….I focused on enabling Stephen to progressively raise his level of selfhood. In particular, I worked with him on self-protection and self-generated security, because his lack of these dominated his life, the reason for his fear-filled thinking…
…Stephen was now aware of his own terror and inability to make himself feel safe, whereas previously he was not aware of this and instead was entirely focused on the dangers that lay waiting relentlessly for him everywhere….
….In contrast, like a rabbit caught in headlights, Stephen would previously have become increasingly transfixed by an unfolding scenario outside of himself, that he was actually creating through outward projection of his feeling unsafe…
…This practise had the desired effect. His level of self-protection and self-generated security began to increase, slowly at first, then gathering pace. Stephen made considerable progress in raising his level of selfhood, of which, for him, self-protection and self-generated security were key factors. Because he was doing well, his psychiatrist agreed to reduce his medication slightly, and I subsequently continued the process of gradually reducing Stephen’s medication.
…Stephen has been off all schizophrenia medication for over three years. He lives a full life, goes where he likes, thrives in social situations, and has a level of selfhood higher that at any previous time in his life….”
There’s no need for any Psychiatric Abuse.
Hallucinations and Delusions
If a person can learn to live in Harmony with their Hallucinations (as many do) – the problem doesn’t exist:-
“…When I wrote DIVIDED MINDS (under the name Pamela Wagner) with my twin sister, Carolyn S Spiro, I never dreamed that one day I would be able to write the words : voices don’t bother me any more…”
“Delusions” are generally dependent on “pre occupation” (in the same way “anxiety” is); and if they are “put down” for any length of time they Lose their Power – in the same way as “Emotional Reasoning” does.
If you exchange “SCHIZOPHRENIA” for a “NERVOUS BREAKDOWN” what do you get?
A person suffering a “Nervous Breakdown” will have the same symptoms as “Schizophrenia”, and is unlikely to recover without support.
If a person wants to overcome or cure the Above SYMPTOMS, this can be done through very straightforward inexpensive Psychotherapy; it doesn’t require the handing of a persons life over to the Psychiatric Services.
Information on how to successfully overcome the Above SYMPTOMS can also be found in inexpensive ‘books’.
All of the ABOVE Symptoms are also SYMPTOMS of “Antipsychotic” Withdrawal and Long term “Antipsychotic” Withdrawal, substantiating that “Antipsychotics” cause “PSYCHOSIS”.
The symptoms of ARMS could include
1. Intrusive and irrelevant thoughts:-
This could include 90% of all normal thought.
2. Heightened sensitivity to sounds:
According to the UK Health & Safety Exec., if a person can’t hear a conversation at 1metre distance, then the Background Noise Environment is potentially causing hearing Loss.
3. Being too literal or concrete in thinking:
The interpretation of this, can depend entirely on the Status of the Person ‘doing the thinking’.
4. Many researchers argue that these states could predict the later development of psychosis….
…On stopping “Antipsychotics”, according to Robert Whitaker, a person is likely to suffer from a condition of “High Anxiety” and its how a person deals with this that decides whether they completely recover or not.
..The ABOVE could also be described as SYMPTOMS of:-
1.Sress
2. Black and White thinking.
3. A person with a sense of humour
…for me when I stopped ‘Medications’ and was ‘pre occupied’; I had to stop ‘pre occupying’, and ‘sit with my feelings’ until my Anxiety subsided; – and then ‘there was No Problem’.
Thank you Dr Williams.
It actually is a Holocaust!
Sorry Magdalene,
It’s not that important!
Thank You Magdalene,
On the Subject of “Eckhart Tolles ‘wisdom’ dissolving the DSM …”
Is it possible to be “deluded”, “anxious”, “angry”, “catastrophic”, or “depressed”, without compulsive thought?
Or is it that simple?
“Medications” are highly dependency forming and a lot of the time near enough impossible to come off.
To quote (I believe Alan Frances) “symptoms” that don’t create problems are irrelevant.
In my experience any medication “that works for mental illness” is likely to physically disable a person. There are also 100 different things that can affect anyone’s involvement in a workplace other than “mental illness”.
I think it is scientifically accepted that ‘Antidepressants’ cause suicide and homicide in a (so called) small percentage of people that consume them.
“….only reason it wouldn’t is if I had developed a different neurological problem during treatment that was unrelated to TMS…” they’ve got their ‘lines’ prepared.
There’s a tendency to think with Mindfulness and Mc Mindfulness that the only problem is inside in a person’s head, but in Contradiction the Real World Actually Does Exist.
People often recommend trusting Doctors in terms of antidepressant consumption, suitability, benefits, side effects, withdrawal syndrome etc., BUT does the doctor have a clue??
It looks like the Doctor has NOT got a clue!
(…and how could they have?)
Steve,
That’s my experience.
Auditory Hallucinations
Most fully qualified MH Clinicians in the UK and Ireland that I have come across, cannot tell the difference between:-
1. An Auditory Hallucination (outside the head)
and
2. Normal Social Thought (inside the head)
And they’re not too bothered either!
HOW ABOUT THIS
https://twitter.com/rtenews/status/1251523243229564928?s=09
Seemingly, from the WHO, Exposure to the Covid 19 Virus could give very little natural immunity, BUT the “VACCINE” (in transit) could.
ALSO FROM THE WHO
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluphenazine
“..Fluphenazine came into use in 1959.[6] The injectable form is on the World Health Organization’s List of Essential Medicines, the safest and most effective medicines needed in a health system.[..”
M Shear 1983 Allen Frances
https://insights.ovid.com/clinical-psychopharmacology/jcps/1983/08/000/suicide-associated-akathisia-depot-fluphenazine/6/00004714
4 out of every 10 people on this drug attempt suicide. Doctors and Researchers consider it acceptable to “bury” these suicides and to attempt to “bury” those that expose the dangers.
“….schizophrenia, outcomes – in terms of rates of hospitalisation and homelessness, levels of distress and suicide, and overall wellbeing…”
There’s quite a lot of hidden recovery from “schizophrenia” in the UK – people that drop out of the MH system, enter into the “main frame” and remain consistently well. I know a lot of people like this and I believe Dr Joanna Moncrieff has written about this phenomenon.
Schizophrenia is supposed to be a long-term chronic disorder worse than paraplegia and Full Recovery – presents a problem.
Even though there is no compulsary ‘medication’ consumption in Ireland a lot of people are put on long-term Injections and never recover – as a result.
Irelands largest export is Pharmaceuticals and some people pay for this with their lives.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/19/anger-in-sweden-as-elderly-pay-price-for-coronavirus-strategy
Thanks Leah
Its Very Frightening!
We’ve had “lock down” in the UK for the last few weeks, with 24hr Corona Virus News Saturation. Then suddenly Care Homes get mentioned, and it’s reported that deaths of 4,000 people have not been recorded in the official figures…
..What’s the point in Having a “Lock down” if about 30% of people dying are trapped in “Death Machines”.
… not just in the UK
I don’t blame you. The system is extremely convincing. I’m even almost taken in myself when I watch the ‘caring promotions’ on television.
Magdalene,
You’re a great writer yourself. I’m going to look out for both of these books.
As regards ‘Attachment Theory’ I can remember seeing the picture of the little monkey in a cage with its dummy mothers and I thought it was very cruel. I’m concious of ‘Attachment’ myself, but in a ‘Buddhist theory context’ which has a totally different meaning.
The Pain Body from Eckhart Tolle is an interesting phenomenon:- https://www.newworldlibrary.com/Blog/tabid/767/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/438/DISSOLVING-THE-PAIN-BODY-An-excerpt-from-THE-POWER-OF-NOW-by-Eckhart-Tolle.aspx#.Xpgwhx7TUwA
I believe this man could completely Dissolve the DSM with a tiny pamphlet from his own wisdom.
You have definitely opened my eyes in this article to a few things that I knew existed but hadn’t investigated due to the lack of available information.
‘Emotionally Insecure’ Parent is a term I’ll remember.
The psychologists and professionals seem to think that they’re experts on human nature, but I’m not so sure about that!
Kawthar Alli,
From what I can see the Spiritual Interpretation you describe is likely to work.
There’s no real blame in the Muslim approach which makes everything a lot easier – in terms of recovery. Plus there’s an expectation that a person will completely recover.
A lot of the time myself, I try to depend on intuition and once I’m in Grace I can trust this guidance. But when I’m in fear my thinking is of no value to me.
(I believe Nigeria has probably the highest “Schizophrenic” Full Recovery Rate in the World).
The only thing I can say, is that IF the Country wants to move back into Full Production regardless of the Corona Virus and the amount of people that ‘Might / or Might Not’ DIE as a result – is that there is an effective International PRECEDENT in Covering Up deaths in Mental Health, and this could be UTILIZED.
We’ve already seen a bit of this in the UK with thousands of people dying in Care Homes and not being accounted for.
It seems like a lot of indigeneous people would sooner be dead than live a “western life”. And that they often kill themselves prematurely to avoid this.
It makes sense in the ‘real world’, that any substance that makes a person feel better, will eventually make them feel worse.
It’s the same for the alcoholic, eventually the alcohol ‘stops working’.
The only people that recover from “Schzophrenia” are those people that Reject Psychiatry and the Bio Medical Disease model of “Schizophrenia”.
Am I right or am I wrong?
On Mad In America we have examples of these recovered people that have gone on to become Psychologists and Psychiatrists.
A person doesn’t have to suffer from ‘Schizophrenia’ to become ‘Psychotic’ as a result of stopping ‘medication’. This can happen to any person.
Martin84
I attempted to Kill myself several times while on ‘Medication’, but never before starting ‘Medication’, or after successfully stopping ‘Medication’.
I recovered as a result of stopping ‘Medication’, but if I wasn’t able to do this successfully (as I initially wasn’t), I would still be judged to be ‘Chronically Schizophrenic’ (…or Dead).
But even after carefully stopping strong ‘medications’ I still suffered from a ‘Long-Term High Anxiety’ condition that I had never suffered from prior to starting ‘medication’.
Thankfully, I learnt how to survive this terrible condition in a somewhat ‘similar manner’ to what Eckart Tolle eloquently describes, in ‘The Power of Now’.
https://www.newworldlibrary.com/Blog/tabid/767/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/438/DISSOLVING-THE-PAIN-BODY-An-excerpt-from-THE-POWER-OF-NOW-by-Eckhart-Tolle.aspx#.XphABR7TUwA
First 3 Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous –
1. We admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become unmanageable.
2. Came to believe that a Power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity.
3. Made a decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we understood Him
SICKNESS ORIENTATION
“..The World Health Organisation has described schizophrenia as a “leading cause of disability, and more disabling that paraplegia or blindness in 18-35 year olds….”
https://www.nuigalway.ie/about-us/news-and-events/news-archive/2017/october2017/definitive-international-study-reveals-schizophrenia-is-associated-with-widespread-change-in-brains-wiring-.html
https://www.nuigalway.ie/about-us/news-and-events/news-archive/2017/may2017/nui-galway-awarded-international-grant-for-schizophrenia-study.html
https://www.nuigalway.ie/about-us/news-and-events/news-archive/2020/january/nui-galway-researchers-makes-schizophrenia-discovery-using-genetics-and-genomics.html
https://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/spotlight-on-research/risksforpsychosiscouldbeidentifiedthroughtell-talesignsiniqmemoryorsocialintelligencetests/
WELLNESS ORIENTATION
https://imhblog.wordpress.com/2017/09/08/book-review-narratives-of-recovery-from-mental-illness-the-role-of-peer-support-by-eugene-egan/
“….Those interviewed included people with a wide-range of diagnosis, including schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder and depression….”
Thank You Kawthar Alli,
This makes complete sense to me:-
“…The last theme highlighted the role of Islamic psychology and spirituality in exploring the subjective meaning of Jinn. According to Islamic psychology, humans are spiritual beings that have an innate divine guidance called fitrah and can receive spiritual inspiration through the Ruh (soul), which has the ability to transform the self.9 However, this can become blocked due to being distracted by the worldly life and due to mental distress, which can lead to a loss of purpose. Skinner⁹ stated that the aim of Islamic psychology in therapy is to help the client open parts of themselves (especially their spiritual heart) that may have become closed off from consciousness, and reconnect to God. This highlights that Muslim therapists working with Muslims have the advantage of being able to go beyond the unconscious and delve into the spiritual self of the client. This synchronicity is likely to enhance the therapeutic relationship…”
I don’t know if this sad story fits in here:
https://people.com/music/rapper-model-chynna-rogers-dead-25/
“…For several weeks now, I have been waking in the night with feelings of intense anxiety. I constantly monitor myself for symptoms of a possibly fatal illness. I can’t concentrate very well, and my usual ways of coping don’t seem to be working. I feel a bit safer inside my house but I also feel trapped….”
I know what you mean by this, I’ve experienced feelings like this myself, but not this time over the Corona Virus!
Most people I mix with are responsible, but don’t seem too upset, and the other people I mix with are speculative it’s a “conspiracy”. This lock down though, could in the long term “materially” change a lot of ordinary people’s lives, for the worse.
Hi O.O.
I don’t judge you at all, and I think your contribution is very worthwhile.
It’s only comparatively recently that I have come to view “psychiatry” as Fraud – while I was drug dependant I believed in it.
It sounds like a potentially very threatening environment though.
In Ireland (as far as I know) psychiatric drugs cannot be forced on a person outside of hospital, so if someone remains legal they can avoid drugging. However the “medications” are often in injection form, and if a person stops taking them the reult is often ‘rebound insanity’.
Hi Caroline,
Psychiatric Drugs are certainly not good for a person’s health and I thought I would never get off them, but I did.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4118946/
I’m enjoying the isolation of the Corona Virus at the moment, I’m trying to get back into running in the park, and the temperature is 25 degrees Celsius today in London.
I know lots of people who redesigned their lives after
long breaks and very long breaks and in advancing years.
Even today I find the ignorance around psychiatric drugs, “diagnosis” and “Mental Health” really frustrating.
Thanks for the great Article.
I believe medical treatment in the US is mostly private and all people without the economic resources are not going to get very good care.
Thanks for the informative article Lucy,
I believe I’ve read articles from John Crace in the Guardian, and watched him speak at a Maudsley Debate:
“…..I wake up early and for a brief nanosecond all is well with the world. Then my mind turns to….the reality of the coronavirus pandemic. Anxiety electrifies me. It’s not just a sense of existential dread, …”
Me:
I wake up early most mornings, and expect to wake “anxious”. I focus on my body and eventually the anxiety does reduce. Half an hour later I can’t even clearly picture what I had been “terrified” about, BUT if I was to get into it at the time, I know it would become very real.
I found my solutions that seem to consistently work, outside the official and funded system. I don’t know what life is like for anyone else, but I think a lot of people might have experienced similar to me. I’m not a great Fan of “Mental Illness” either.
I didn’t worry too much about the virus initially, until a medical friend of mine told me that the serious stages can be very uncomfortable. My heart goes out to anyone in this dreadful position.
SCHIZOPHRENIA FRAUD
” Imagine if you had schizophrenia—that concern or suspicion could turn into frank paranoia.”
In my case it’s turned into “frank boredom”.
I was diagnosed as the “worst Schizophrenic in Ireland” – until I stopped taking my ‘medication’.
And after 30 years of complete recovery I caught my GP in London claiming for me as a sick person – even though I hadn’t cost a penny in 30 years!
“….managing anxiety about situations we don’t control…”
A friend of mine said “…people can’t cope with powerlessness…”
Poor Boris Johnson (UK Prime Minister) is now in Hospital Intensive Care struggling with the Corona Virus:-
BBC News – Coronavirus: Boris Johnson moved to intensive care as symptoms worsen
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-52192604
.
When Dr Christiaan Bernard first began heart transplants many years ago, I heard a story about some boys from another school, regarding a heart transplant trial they claimed they carried out on two mice (that they managed to catch).
According to the boys, they removed both hearts from both mice and exchanged them. And the result was that one mouse died on the spot, but the other mouse leapt to its feet and ran off. Nobody believed them, but it was a good story!
Tich Nich Han says that Christians hope to find heaven in the next life, but Buddhists can find great happiness in this life.
There is no such thing as Schizophrenia.
Example:- 2nd Generation Afro Caribbean man nearly 10 times more likely than white Uk man to be diagnosed with Schizophrenia.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2418996/#__ffn_sectitle
Can’t be realistic.
It’s not necessarily a blame thing!
The last MH doctor I had contact with in Ireland many years ago , now a psychiatrist in the UK, recently, (following a visit), reformulated my ‘MH Diagnosis’ to a ‘Misdiagnosis’, which I believe would be appropriate, as my MH recovery was genuinely due to stopping MH treatment.
According to UK MH statistics, a 2nd Generation Caribbean man is about 10 times more likely to be diagnosed as ‘Schizophrenic’ in the UK than a generic white man – which CANNOT be realistic.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2418996/
But very few ‘diagnosed’ people ever manage to break free from the system. Most ‘diagnosed/misdiagnosed people’ eventually become chronically ‘schizophrenic’, and die in middle age.
Because there’s a big cover up job.
GPs were prescribing these drugs in good faith (without full relevant information). If the drugs go down then the GPs go down as well.
I believe SSRI s (contrary to other drugs) were promoted as safe during pregnancy when there was no evidence to support that they were, and that ‘depression’ was promoted as a ‘dangerous illness’ when most of the time its not.
There are lots of young people around that mightnt be disabled with “autism”, but are not 100% – which matches up with the common use of antidepressants in the past 20 years.
Hi Laurel,
Congratulations and thanks for the article, (I’ll study it carefully).
I suffered ‘very high anxiety’ when I tried to come off ‘antipsychotic’ medication suitable for “schizophrenia”.
I was okay refusing ‘antipsychotics’ at the beginning (of my psychiatric career in 1980), but when I tried to come off them some years later in 1984 – I was incapable.This is why I believe that ‘antipsychotics’ cause “schizophrenia”.
But I was able to stop taking antipsychotics at a disabling level, and very gradually reduce from there.
‘High Anxiety’ though remained a problem:- I was plagued by “circular catastrophic never ending preoccupations”.
What I found through trial and error was that, if I was able put the ‘preoccupations’ down:- I’d eventually come out onto the other side, and then my “head” would (magically) be able to deal with whatever had been “bugging me”.
Buddhism has spiritual techniques that work similarly – ‘Detachment’ leads to ‘Equanamity’.
Eckart Tolle is another Genius. His recommendations work.
https://youtu.be/LiEU84nHEcY
Diet and exercise and meditation, are thankfully not too difficult for me.
Experts say that when the “Brain” is exposed to “antipsychotics” – it tries to come back to normal; and to do this the dopamine receptors become more sensitive. So when the “antipsychotics” (that block dopamine) are removed – the person can go “chemically” mad.
I completely came off all medications many years ago, and my Anxiety levels are also now very low – most of the time.
With birth control and advanced technology, there is no such thing as a genuine shortage of resources. Theres more than enough to go around (- even enough for some people to have more).
Thanks Will,
It needs to be said that this Epidemic could result in a culling of vulnerable people. Those Labelled “mentally Ill”are generally in poorer health (as people at the most discriminated level generally are) plus the fact that they are likely to get the poorest standard medical treatment.
[Even though I’ve been well for the past 30 years; in the last few years I have come across some diabolical “attempted taking advantage of”; which I have been prepared to challenge].
The native Americans said that they didn’t like the white people because they looked needy all the time and they treated each other badly and that they thought the white people were MAD. The Native Americans also said that nobody could OWN the land – they couldn’t.
The situation now is that one group of people believe they should own everything, even when there is more than ENOUGH for everyone, especially with the advances in the TECHNOLOGY of Supply and Production.
There is NOW no shortage whatsoever, in Resources.
I’ve got enough toilet paper to last me a few more days, but I don’t know what’s going to happen after.
Thank you Paula,
“..In the United States and other countries that have a military, there is often a great deal of talk about supporting veterans, but way too often, research aimed at learning what will be helpful is misguided and can even be harmful…” …very harmful!
I hope I’m not too far off topic!
I suffered from neuroleptic withdrawal “PTSD”; and It often took the form of “Anxiety” or “High Anxiety”.
This type of Advice from Eckhart Tolle really works:-
https://youtu.be/LiEU84nHEcY
“…I have a long-standing and deep curiosity about the phenomenon of psychosis…”
What would you describe as psychosis?
Why don’t pharmaceutical companies just tax Americans, instead of poisoning them?
What is the rationale for the fact that there’s so much more of it going on now?
The rationale might be that there are a lot more people around than are needed and a long-term mentally disabled person doesn’t need to be provided with a non job to keep them busy.
“…The majority of people taking antidepressant medications have never had major depressive disorder…” I’d say that, that’s about right.
These people run the risk of developing serious iatrogenic damage and disability. They could very well become chemically psychiatric as a result of following Medical Advice.
The symptoms of street drugs can match “schizophrenia”, and the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal or alcoholism can match “schizophrenia”. But these situations can be very successfully and quickly dealt with in 12 Step Programs – unless “other parties” want to capitalise.
‘Antipsychotics’ can definitely create positive symptoms of Insanity (Akathisia). The negative symptoms of “schizophrenia” are equivalent to ‘complete demotivation’ – what ‘antipsychotics’ are designed to create.
I notice on inspection of Patient Information Leaflets for SSRIs like Lexapro and Prozac that the information is very vague and confusing.
Patient Information Leaflets.
If the Patient Information Leaflets clearly described Akathisia, or Serotonin Syndrome, or Tardive Dyskinesia – then the consumer would know what to ‘Watch Out For’. But they don’t:- they ‘go around in circles’ in such a way as to ‘successfully mislead’.
And this has resulted in an increase in USA health and life expectancy?
What’s happened to the profession of “Psychology”.
Why are they “lying down” when it’s not in their interest?
With “Schizophrenia” – the only Genuine Recoveries that have have come about, have been through “Psychology”, and other non pharmaceutical approaches.
My good luck was that I could tell when I was in a state of Acute Akathisia. Each time the Acute Akathisia followed a medication introduction, medication change or a medication discontinuation.
Though expressing this did not make me popular.
I was looking through Kanye Wests biography as he has been topical recently, and I noticed a lot was made of his brief (as described) “Psychosis”, which I thought was a bit ‘over the top’ considering his artistic background.
Seemingly he takes an SSRI which is a drug that is more than capable of causing “psychotic appearing” behaviour (in a minority of people). I find it strange that this does not seem to have been taken into account.
But maybe it wouldn’t be the thing to do.
Susan,
I agree with you, and I wish I could describe things in such articulate terms.
Professor Gotzsche,
BBC News – German police arrest man over high-speed rail tampering
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-51992070
When this man ‘messed around with the tracks’ he was arrested for Attempted Murder – and rightfully so.
There’s nothing funny about doctors playing around with pharmaceuticals and people’s lives.
Thanks for this contribution Will and Rachel.
I can identify with your disappointment at College. I felt the same way about the potential of Psychology when I was young. But Practical Psychology worked for me, when I was coming off ‘antipsychotics’ and suffering from terrible Anxiety.
In this (so called) Study UK born Afro Caribbeans are nearly 10 times more likely to ‘suffer’ from “Schizophrenia” than a UK traditional person. This can’t be realistic:-
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2418996/
I know that Psychiatric Drugs cause Disability and Illness and that coming off psychiatric drugs Can be very difficult, and that Doctors in Mental Health tell lies all the time – and I can prove this:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Z2um5_6rz_ih1YqjQ_L8qG5TXsJUzQqp/view?usp=drivesdk
Removed at request of poster.
Thank you Dr Lawrence
MENTAL ILLNESS EXPLAINED
SCHIZOPHRENIA:- Disabling Anxiety is usually the problem here, when “medication” is halted. But its possible to see this as a type of “transference”, and to reduce it by 90%.
DEPRESSION:- Life can be full of stress and unhappiness, and ‘mental illness’ goes some way in describing this.
BIPOLAR:- When unhappiness burns itself out, an extreme happiness can temporarily take over.
ADHD:- The clients are completely normal
BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER:- This is a scam.
But look at how corrupt Doctors are in MH in the UK, and how corrupt the UK General Medical Council is:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YE0yvwaIRnpY7RjtS0TfKi8ZWMoVD1k5/view?usp=drivesdk
But look at how corrupt Doctors are in MH in the UK, and how corrupt the UK General Medical Council is:-
https://docs.google.com/document/d/157A7TyyPixRyzhSf_Mw29_c4UB88qb–skbKM6Wzy-s/edit?usp=drivesdk
Rachel777
“Over 95% of all SMI cases were perfectly sane until ….”
“Judges” have a tendency to ‘believe’ doctors, even though psychiatric ‘medications’ have been proven to cause – even homicidal and familicidal lunacy.
As far as I can see Buddhism has a lot of merit attached to it and can definitely increase happiness in life. Rufus May Doctor of Psychology in the UK (and ‘recovered person’) uses Buddhist techniques with success in his “schizophrenic curing” Work.
I don’t have opinions on Scientology because I don’t know what it is.
Removed for moderation.
‘Why don’t you want to take your medication?’
This a complete dead end question.
Psychiatry often double speaks completely normal behaviour and I notice other official people have a tendency to back this up.
I was raised a Catholic in Ireland in the 1960s and I don’t have strong opinions on Catholicism but if someone in Irish society today had strong opinions (usually “anti”) – It would be considered very normal.
Lots of people seem to have strong opinions on Scientology – which which is also usually considered to be normal.
Generally speaking Buddhist spokespeople like Richard Gere are considered normal – even though they might be very “preoccupied” with Buddhism.
GPs ‘now’ prescribe these drugs so they’re bought into responsibility with Psychiatry for outcomes, even though they mostly were not informed of the capacity of the drugs.
If the drugs go down then GPs go down.
It looks to me like things are opening up a bit in the UK (and Ireland) regarding the problems with “antidepressants”
BBC News – ‘My anti-depressant withdrawal was worse than depression’
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51834456
I don’t think the BBC would represent this type of article, even a year ago.
I think the momentum is due to patient and persistent human rights campaigning.
Unfortunately sticking to their guns means killing children; when these children could ultimately overcome their gloom.
I think I’m a good example of someone who can reliably “say” that “antipsychotics” cause “Schizophrenia” as the circumstances surrounding my Original (1980) Diagnosis were quite odd, the Formulation was odd, and the History was factually inaccurate.
The original UK (Diagnosis Formulation) Doctor “committed suicide” around 2000, and the original Irish (Diagnosis Formulation) Doctor was barred from practising medicine within 6 months of this “suicide”.
I ended up in hospital several times (1983/84) when I attempted to discontinue “antipsychotics” and was more seriously diagnosed each time.
The prescribed depot “medication” had been causing extrapyrammidal disability, and when I stopped taking it, I was able to return to normal work and a normal longterm life (1984 – 2020).
I can describe the psychological means with which I was able to deal with ‘drug withdrawal syndrome’ when I came off “antipsychotics” – which was similar to a Step No 3, in a 12 Step Fellowship.
I don’t believe in “Schizophrenia”. I don’t believe drugs like Cannibas cause “Schizophrenia” – they might cause ‘fuzzy thinking’, which usually abates with discontinuation.
Dear Dr Peter,
Its too big a scam to be allowed to collapse and there’s lots and lots of money changing hands. At this stage we’d need to Prosecute entire National Medical Councils and I don’t know if this would be likely to happen.
We don’t compulsararily trust Priests in Ireland, and we need to take the same approach towards Doctors (for common sense reasons).
“….psychiatrists are the only people in the state who can have anyone locked up without their having committed a crime and can do so with impunity…”
And sometimes without evidence.
CoronaVirus + Social Justice
I have viewed a very informative corona virus, Joe Rogan interview, featuring epidemology expert Michael Osterholm
https://youtu.be/E3URhJx0NSw
Who stated that in China most older men 70 yrs + smoked, and those infected with the Corona Virus had a 10% chance of dying; while most older infected (non smoking) Chinese women had a much lower 2 % chance of dying.
Michael Osterholm stated that In the USA smoking wouldn’t be a great problem; but OBESITY affecting 40 yr + males would present serious problems, affecting the death rate.
According to the todays Sunday Express, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, has ordered all 70 yr + people to stay at home, but has NOT placed a similar enforcement order on middleaged OBESE men.
..and doctors are covering up.
But unfortunately in Ireland there are quite a few people already locked up in the Central Mental Hospital for “dangerously acting out” on “antidepressants”..
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Mental_Hospital
…evidence of this Suppression is that the Psychiatric Drug Treatment is NOT presented by the Defence as the most likely cause for the Defendants Behaviour.
AKATHISIA
[..It is Medical Fact that Psychiatric Drugs can drive Normal People MAD enough to Kill their Loved Ones..]
“Antipsychotics” themselves cause “Schizophrenia”, I “relapsed” several times when I was given permission to come off them abruptly.
But when I tapered very carefully, I was able to make full Recovery from “Schizophrenia”.
The drugs can drive people MAD but people are not being adequately warned.
When the drugs cause suicide – “..it’s just too bad..”
and when the drugs cause homicide
“..the person is charged with murder..”
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/amp/world-europe-51302107
Where is the Corona Virus on Mad In America??
I’m just curious.
I’m not all that expert on “Depression” but “Anxiety” is a good one for me. Anxiety is also I believe quite close to depression.
Anxiety is not an illness. Anxiety responds to straight forward psychological approaches that can be accessed organically (i.e. without professional contact). And what works for Normal Anxiety also works for Extreme Anxiety.
“Depression is the same as Diabetes” is in my opinion just “Silly Talk”.
I thought “Mental Illness” was a figure of speech, until I noticed medical staff with very serious and dedicated expressions on their faces promoting it as true. God help us!
Italians are naturally a very soft hearted people, as are Americans.
Thanks Noel,
There is Good News.
I know lots and lots of people that have experienced feral upbringings and extreme hardship that have completely recovered with the support of Independent Self Help Groups.
One reason is because these drugs can drive some people completely MAD.
BBC News – ‘My anti-depressant withdrawal was worse than depression’
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51834456
People recover from “Psychosis” all the time with the help of basic Psychotherapy.
Mad In America produced a Webinar earlier in the week on this subject, which is now available on Utube:
https://youtu.be/zKe5jRZfEAo
Dr Rufus May in the Webinar places a strong emphasis on “Buddhist” techniques, which seem to work for a lot of people.
Hi Ron,
I saw the Webinar and it’s also up on Utube,
https://youtu.be/zKe5jRZfEAo
Rufus has a great way about him, and I learnt a lot from the programme.
There was nothing mysterious involved. It was very straightforward.
I can prove that neuroscientists researching frantically for a cure for “schizophrenia” cannot tell the difference between akathisia and “Psychosis”.
I can prove that these neuroscientists would sooner kill psychiatric patients than acknowledge recovery from non chemical means.
I can prove what I say from my own historical and present day medical records.
“…believe it or not! ways of working with ‘delusions’ / unusual beliefs…”
https://youtu.be/zKe5jRZfEAo
This is fairly straightforward Psychology. How many people are in the wrong job?
..Even this can be “Psychosis”
BBC News – ‘My anti-depressant withdrawal was worse than depression’
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51834456
It depends on what you call “Psychosis”…
If a person earns a “Good Living” from “Psychosis”, then anything can be “Psychosis”.
Autism and not exactly Autism.
I’m just reading the rest of the article now – and some of it is very sad!
It’s good to see you writing on MIA again!
Thank you Noel,
This article brings my history home to me. I was going around the place under the influence of compulsive anxiety practically all the time. But thankfully it’s not like that at all now.
The anxiety was drug withdrawal induced and therefore quite irrational to any “counsellor”. I learned my own ways of coping (which worked).
As a Catholic I never expected to be happy, so life is in a sense a bonus.
“…. I am also grieving the life I will never have, isolation and poverty…”
I hope not! I hope your life turns out very well.
There was a time when a graduate education guaranteed a person a good income. Does this still apply today?
Rachel777,
We know the score:- More people recovered before the arrival of medication than after the arrival of medication; and more people moved back to independence; and life expectancy was more or less the same as average.
Frank,
Most people that earn a good living do it through funny handshakes, there’s not much difference between a welfare check and the average wage packet.
In the UK most of the welfare administrators, are on supportive welfare themselves.
It’s only common sense! This is where the whole thing should be going!
When something like this happens in Ireland, not once is Akathisia mentioned.
https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/courts/district-court/woman-accused-of-murdering-her-three-children-too-unwell-to-appear-in-court-1.4192553
cidrols,
Very insightful!
Thanks
“Cult like” is exactly right!
According to “Mental Health”, if you suffer from “Bipolar” – there is no cure.
I got my Practical Psychology ‘organically’:-
Dr Wayne W Dyer (author of ‘Your Erroneous Zones’) was one of the innovators I studied.
Its very important as well, that Psychologists don’t “milk” the system at the expense of the “sufferer”.
Hi Alex
“….the most direct and powerful condemnation of psychiatry and psychatirsts that I’ve ever seen coming from within the industry. …”
It’s the only way to do it!
“Deteriorate” is probably a good word.
According to Dr David Healys Historical Research 1896 to1996 at North Wales: A hundred plus, years before the ‘arrival of medication’ a ‘Schizophrenic person’ was NOT more likely than the average person, to take their own life. But that a ‘Present Day Schizophrenic Person’ ‘consuming medication’ is about 20 TIMES more likely than the average person, to take their own life.
Every hospitalization I experienced at Galway, Southern Ireland (bar the first) between 1980 and 1984 was a ‘suicidal event’ for me. But after (very carefully) coming off strong psychiatric drugs in 1984, I experienced no more hospitalizations; no more ‘Suicidal Events’; and no more Disability.
In my estimation Dr David Healys Historical ‘Morbidity and Mortality’ Research and Dr Joanna Moncrieffs Historical ‘Recovery’ Research combined, are Scientifically Groundbreaking.
The combined Historical Scientific Research clearly demonstrates that ‘Psychiatric Drugs’ administered in ‘UK Psychiatry Today’ are NOT helping ‘Patients’, but Disabling and (Mercy) Killing them.
What this Valuable Research Article seems to support is that more people recovered from ‘Schizophrenia’ before ‘medication arrived’ than after.
cidrols,
You have it in one. “…that MEDICATIONS ARE MORE LIKELY EXACERBATING THE PROBLEMS OF TODAY!..”
PRACTICAL PSYCHOLOGY
The way I DEALT with my ‘antipsychotic’ withdrawal “HIGH ANXIETY” was to FOCUS on how my BODY felt, and NOT on my THINKING.
WHEN my Anxiety SOFTENED, there was NO PROBLEM; and I KNEW what TO DO.
SITTING WITH FEELINGS is NOT EASY – BUT IT WORKS.
.
.
Thank You Dr Joanna, this article is very worthwhile.
Wunderink L, Nieboer RM, Wiersma D, Sytema S, & Nienhuis FJ (2013):-
In this Study I believe 40% of the dose reduction or discontinuation group made ‘Recovery’, and 17% of the Maintenance dose group made ‘Recovery’.
I made Recovery in 1984 as a result of carefully withdrawing from depot medication (with the help of practical psychology). Dr David Healy was there at the time.
(I was originally ‘diagnosed’ in 1980).
RUFUS MAY
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/dr-rufus-may-one-man-and-a-bed-410698.html
“…He believes that all diagnoses of schizophrenia are “misdiagnoses”.
“Schizophrenia doesn’t tell you anything meaningful about the cause of people’s problems, the content of their experiences or their outcome – the three things that a diagnosis should do. It’s a ragbag category. It needs to be scrapped.
I had a psychotic episode; unconscious material was coming up which was meaningful and related to my emotional past. Madness is a creative response to pain.”…”
No. The Western Ego needs to be extincted.
Hi Ron, This is a great topic. You explain the subject very clearly.
It seems to me that there are mostly two types of ‘delusions’: fear based, or ambition based.
I can understand a person thinking people are watching them or have planted microchips in their brains, if they have been on the receiving end of extreme intrusion. But I notice people can be ‘pathologically’ intrusive anyway, even as groups.
A friend of mine (who works in Mental Health) told me that that sometimes neighbours harass people to such an extent, that they only leave their houses at night.
I see ‘delusions’ as ’emotional reasoning’ – when my head is away from an idea, and I look at it again, I see it ‘rationally’. I have to do this all the time.
This Jordan Peterson Utube video is a departure on the antidepressants – it’s about a change in diet bringing miraculous results.
https://youtu.be/A6g_geYeL4U
I think the very unfortunate situation Jordan Peterson is in, can easily be compared to ‘the end of the line situation’ for any person exposed to Psychiatric Drug Dependency Treatment.
If it wasn’t for his ‘position in life’ he mightn’t still be alive. …
…Or he might even be diagnosed now as “Schizophrenic”.
Anxiety Withdrawal was my main problem, and Will Halls advice on this is much the same as Dr Rufus Mays. And it works.
If you take your meds you remain psychiatric. But coming off the meds is difficult.
…”Borderline Personality Disorder,” “Schizophrenia,” and “Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder”…”
Every person I have ever met with “Borderline Personality Disorder,” has been a really decent person – with anything but a disorder.
“Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder” I’ve got a friend and he’s got 6 children and he maintains that even the Dalai Lama would find looking after 6 children difficult. Normal children have a lot of energy.
‘Daily Mail’ Article on February 15/16, 2020
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8008279/Jordan-Peterson-vilified-crusade-against-political-correctness-seriously-ill.html
I support the idea that drugs make people sick. I used to support Psychology (because I had good experiences) but I realise now that this system can be abused as well.
The whole Idea about heavy metal I thought, was to go ‘crazy’!
THERES NO SUCH THING AS LEGITIMATE “MENTAL HEALTH DIAGNOSIS” IN THE UK:- AS PER GMC
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Q6XGC5jYXa2kUFOqYd4rmFPhHq_TFFzi/view?usp=drivesdk
LICENCE TO KILL
Even though there is no Death Sentence in Western Europe – A person can be literally killed in Psychiatry.
With any other ‘medicine’ the evidence of illness can be seen on the chart, and can’t be played with. But with Psychiatry a ‘doctor’ can invent anything they want, and this will be backed up by the next ‘doctor’.
Below is a example of what I’m saying:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1B2O9wLW2gZoaSSFq0ohHMMtM6DtNNJcR/view?usp=drivesdk
The Doctor I refer to in my Letter in the LINK (above) might be a decent enough person – but with his hands tied behind his back.
Eckhart Tolle:- Break Free From Fear And Anxiety
https://youtu.be/3I5L2otW4r8
(This approach works)
Hi Rachel777
Try this one out
https://youtu.be/3I5L2otW4r8
(It Works)
“..so that we can invest our money in curing therapies…” even the most basic Psychotherapeutic principles can cure the so called “major mental illnesses”.
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/02/review-explores-first-person-experiences-people-taking-antipsychotics/#comment-168071
Psychiatric Drugs are profoundly disabling – even, for people that have been misdiagnosed or were not mentally ill to begin with.
Exposure to Psychiatric Drugs can cause ‘Mental Illness’ even in well people, through the creation of changes to the brain.
“Schizophrenia” is a Serious, Long Term Disabling Disorder.
“Schizophrenia” was a Serious Long Term Disabling Disorder for me for about 5 years, until I carefully stopped medical treatments “suitable ” for “Schizophrenia”.
Most people in the Western World have eating problems. Most people in the Western World consume food that will eventually kill them.
It was Hitler himself (I believe), who put an end to the Psychiatric Killings.
I love his lectures as well!
“…He used to defend antidepressants, so I hope he comes with a different perspective after this event….”
He might very well.
My impression in the UK is that “the mooted right wing Newspaper”, the “Daily Mail” is very fair in its representation of “Mental Health Treatments”.
Hi,
I don’t believe ‘antipsychotics’ make people safer, I believe on balance that Psychiatric Drugs make Society a lot more unsafe.
Hi registeredforthissite,
“…People with horrible personalities who unwarrantedly hurt people who have done no wrong to them, who consistently lie etc..”
I’ve witnessed some dreadful game playing within the Mental Health System in the UK, and the total incapacity of any complaint system, and I have only been on the Mental Health periphery. I’ve witnessed doctors in telling outright lies and covering up for other bent doctors.
But I also have a very tricky (though very dated) history, and this might be why I’m coming across this type of medical uselessness.
My natural tendency is to defend myself and I have been doing this to the best of my ability and resources.
You have it in one!
Apologies:- for wrongly spelling the UK Researchers Name, (above):- It is Professor Martin Knapp of the LSE ; NOT Professor Robert Knappe
OVERCOMING ‘SCHIZOPHRENIA’ THROUGH COMING OFF ‘ANTIPSYCHOTIC’ MEDICATION
‘ANTI PSYCHOTIC’ & DISABLED
I was Disabled in Ireland between 1980 and 1984 while I co operated with Psychiatric Drug Treatments. When I consistently complained about the problems with the treatments, I was eventually offered the option of abrupt (neuroleptic/antipsychotic depot injection), discontinuation.
SUICIDAL HOSPITALIZATIONS
Between December 1983 and April 1984 I experienced 4 hospitalizations one Suicide Attempt and one almost Suicide Attempt.
SEVERE DIAGNOSIS
By April 1984 my Diagnosis was one of very Severe and Chronic Schizophrenia.
VERY CAREFUL DRUG TAPER
After this, I decided to Taper very carefully from the
(‘Antipsychotic’) injection, with oral medication.
INDEPENDENCE
With reductions in ‘medication’, I was no longer disabled and was able to came off ‘disability payments’, and move into independence.
DRUG WITHDRAWAL SYNDROME
I suffered from “Neuroleptic Withdrawal High Anxiety”, and I would have fallen back into the ‘hands of Psychiatry’, if I hadn’t found effective ways of dealing with it.
REALISATION
At this time I had a type of Realisation. I was able to recognise that I was suffering from a High Anxiety problem and figure out what to do about it. And this Approach has worked for me in the Long Term.
‘HIGH ANXIETY’ PROBLEM & SOLUTION
1. When I was overwhelmed with High Anxiety
– I wasn’t able ‘to think my way out’.
2. If I could stop trying ‘to think my way out’
– the High Anxiety would eventually balance off.
3. When the High Anxiety balanced off
– I was OK, and I knew what to do.
4. When the High Anxiety returned
– From past experience I knew how to deal with it.
RECOVERY
I have not claimed Mental Health Disability Benefit nor been admitted to a Psychiatric Hospital since 1984; and have not consumed any Psychiatric ‘medication’ in many many years.
It also took many years to adapt to the Withdrawal Anxiety.
https://nationalpost.com/news/the-doctors-here-have-the-guts-to-medically-detox-someone-mikhaila-peterson-on-her-fathers-condition
AKATHISIA
“…The worst symptom for dad was akathisia. Akathisia is an absolutely god awful condition where the person feels an incredible, irresistible restlessness, and an inability to sit still. It was so severe he was suicidal…”
.
‘Anti Psychotics’ are extremely disabling.
POTENTIAL SAVING TO TAXPAYER
The saving to the Taxpayer of full Recovery throughout a person’s working life can be calculated at about £3 million (per recovered person)*.
*Professor Robert Knappe of the LSE has previously calculated the cost of SMI/per person/per year/to the taxpayer at £65,000.
*(£65,000 × 45 years of non disability equals about £3 Million).
….It’s Deadly Medicines & Organised Crime.
Steve
It’s the “Amygdala”. Once the Amygdala is activated ‘the worst thing is going to happen’ – for anyone.
“High Anxiety” is what drives people back on to neuroleptics when they try to withdraw.
The High Anxiety is Automatic, and if it’s Automatic it’s a symptom of Withdrawal.
The terrors of Neuroleptic Withdrawal were worse for me, than any previous Anxieties I had ever experienced.
Can a blood pressure drug help ease the painful memory of an ex? – https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-51317388
“…Memories, their neutral, factual elements, are saved in the brain’s hippocampus. But the emotional tone of the memory is saved in its amygdala…”
I suffered from PTSD (High Anxiety) as a result of exposure to Psychiatric Drugs. But It is possible to overcome this – without drugs.
If I hadn’t been able to overcome it, I would have had to return to the drugs.
Dr Peter,
Dr Jordan Peterson
https://www.madinamerica.com/2020/02/around-web-jordan-peterson-russia-detoxing-benzos-near-death-experience/
If you look at how terrible this mans experience is, you can see how Ill Equipped the best Western Medicine is in the area of psychiatric drug withdrawal.
I underwent my ‘disaster’ in the 1980s in Galway Southern Ireland. Where I nearly died (more than once) in the process of attempting to withdraw from psychiatric drugs.
I was able to come off Neuroleptic medication, but I had to do this extremely slowly over a number of years (not abruptly in one go).
I also had to learn to psychologically adapt to coming off the drugs, because my brain didn’t come back the same.
I support your view that you’re being sabotaged, medicine is supposed to support humanity not create human misery.
SF Ireland
After the Irish Election I don’t know where Sinn Feinn who came out strongest stand, on ‘Mental Health Equality’ – they are strong on Housing, Social Issues and the Health System.
At the moment they’re in talks with the Greens and others looking to form a coalition.
These drugs are rapacious creditors they take a lot more than they give. ‘Psychiatry’ is all about double speak.
This is what’s needed:-
“….Of greater importance is what the centre calls “mindcrafting” – a blend of meditation, counselling and Jungian psychoanalysis. Its aim is to rebuild the patient’s self-esteem and give them the “strength of mind to keep one step ahead of others in the context of globalisation, with its rapid development of information technology and the rule of money and stress.”…”
Thank You Leah – this is very worthwhile news.
Coronavirus kills Chinese whistleblower doctor –
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-china-51403795
“….A Chinese doctor who tried to issue the first warning about the deadly coronavirus outbreak has died…”
American Doctor Warns –
“…As early as post-Columbine in 1999, psychologist Peter Breggin warned ..”
https://breggin.com/prozac-like-drug-luvox-taken-by-eric-harris/
“…about a possible connection, as one of the shooters was taking the antidepressant Luvox at the time…”
Medical Journalist Warns –
https://www.madinamerica.com/2018/08/suicide-in-the-age-of-prozac/
“….Here are just a few of the headlines that have appeared:
“The Neglected Suicide Epidemic”—The New Yorker
“The Unseen Epidemic”—Baltimore Sun..”
Renowned Psychologists Daughter Warns –
https://nationalpost.com/news/the-doctors-here-have-the-guts-to-medically-detox-someone-mikhaila-peterson-on-her-fathers-condition
“…It’s been noted in other studies that married people – of all sexualities – are less likely to die by suicide..” I think there might be exceptions.
‘..The medication almost killed my dad..’ ,
I believe her.
Thanks Bob,
Bonnys Obituary is not a time for grievance.
I completely support the idea of ‘the non existence of schizophrenia’ as a medical illness. The only people that genuinely recover, do this through non medical means.
Your Article refers to Dr David Healys Study suggesting a 20 fold increase in ‘Schizophrenic Suicide’ with the introduction of strong psychiatric drugs.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16507962
You also mention an overall increase in Suicide with an increase in Psychiatric medicine in Society:-
At the moment in Ireland there is a Epidemic of Suicide/Homicide/Familicide being carried out by Completely Normal People taking Psychiatric Drugs as an aid to coping with Modern Day Life Stress.
https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/meave-sheehan-on-hawe-tragedy-ultimately-we-are-in-the-haunting-presence-of-the-inexplicable-36434714.html
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-7939815/Woman-arrested-following-deaths-three-wonderful-children-Dublin-home.html
https://www.madinamerica.com/2019/07/musician-feared-antidepressant-was-poisoning-him-inquest-told/
To make Society safer surely these drugs should be taken off the market.
The anxiety does ring a bell. I was talking to a friend of mine (a doctor) about Psychiatric drugs causing mental illness and he was cynical.
And then he related his own experience to me with a skin medication (most Irish people are prone to skin problems), which made him very anxious, but he said it was the chance he took, as it is well known that certain skin medications can cause High Anxiety.
This is you:
‘….Laura McCabe
A Pennsylvania native, Laura holds a BS degree in Business from Virginia Tech. She’s always had a passion for business, investing in the stock market and becoming the owner of a small fashion accessory business while still a teenager. Among other things, she has worked for four Pennsylvania government agencies and been employed as an analyst and manager in the consumer packaged goods industry…’
I was medically described as a ‘hopeless Schizophrenic’ in 1984; and this is a ‘non medical’ description of me referring to the same time period:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PW-wn9GOkiyWAbdzgXuC8cDS-7UPEj0-/view?usp=drivesdk
I believe Mindfulness Works through Detachment. When a Person is Detached they see Things with ‘Equanamity’ – which is always Positive.
Thanks Eric,
I like Articles that offer solutions.
I’m definitely looking forward to studying your:- http://www.kirism.com/
“….despair, high anxiety, distractibility, demoralization, the experience of hearing voices, a strong individuality, or one or another of countless more—…”
I suffered from some but not all of these symptoms as a direct Result of Psychiatry; and it took me a long time to overcome them!
I did find some philosophies effective in my struggle for peace. For example, I was able to identify my ‘High Anxiety’ as ’emotional reasoning’ – and figure out ways to reduce it.
‘….75% of people hate their jobs..’ – this is probably true, (though I have enjoyed most of the jobs I’ve done).
The Treatments cause Suicide and Homicide.
CULTURE OF DENIAL
Culture of “denial” allowed breast surgeon to do unnecessary operations on hundreds of women, inquiry finds
https://t.co/7u8433xwLU
Sam,
It is medically accepted that ‘anti depressants’ can cause Suicide but medically maintained that more lives are saved by ‘antidepressants’ than lost.
Homicide is on the other side of Suicide, but when this happens, ‘nobody’ knows what to do.
People are looking for Alternatives (Irish Election)
Latest poll suggests Sinn Féin has overtaken FG and FF
http://www.rte.ie/news/election-2020/2020/0203/1112942-opinion-poll/
It’s the cruelty….
It’s not surprising to me that Carl Rogers would avoid Diagnosis – because the only way to help someone in counselling is to concentrate on what they need help with.
I think ‘Diagnosis’ is obstructive.
“….I was told I would have to take mind-numbing Thorazine-like drugs for the rest of my life…”
Mental Health Diagnosis is mostly a play on words, and the idea that psychiatric drugs are medicine is rubbish. But if a person says this, they can become very unpopular.
If maybe 15% of the population are taking SSRI s, would Hospital Emergency Staff know anything about AKATHISIA??
https://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2020/0125/1110797-children-deaths-newcastle/
From Twitter (Vincent Bennett) 1Feb 2020 22:14
“…The mother who is alleged to have murdered her three children last week presented to Tallaght hospital on the day before with suicidal thoughts and was sent home. Mental Health services in Ireland are grossly sub standard, will you make it a #GE2020 issue on the doorstep???…”
Exactly what I did 36 years ago complaining of being suicidal as a result of Adverse Drug Reaction to recent drug exposure, and WAS admitted by the Charge Nurse (who overrode orders).
My experience was that I nearly went MAD trying to come off neuroleptics, it took me years to come to a position of balance.
I don’t think there is such a thing as a genuine illness of ‘Schizophrenia’.
SCHIZOPHRENIA: EARLY WARNING SIGNS
1. ZOLOFT MENTIONED IN FIRST MINUTE
https://youtu.be/9JH7G1aekxc
2. ZOLOFT NOT MENTIONED
https://youtu.be/cKVctQNRL6w
No Death Penalty in Alaska for murder
There’s no Official Death Penaly in Ireland or England in MH, but there is a ‘Licence To Kill’
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
(I can prove it)
https://www.fiercepharma.com/marketing/j-j-s-ketamine-depression-drug-spravato-fails-nice-review-over-cost-and-clinical-evidence
“…According to a NICE draft guidance (PDF), J&J’s own economic model suggests an average price of about £10,550 ($13,720) per course for Spravato before any discount…”
Someone intends to make a lot of money.
Thanks Paula,
The Article title says it all.
I was actually looking for the kindle version of The Zyprexa Papers, but at least I know now that its coming out.
I think some of these ‘psychiatric controllers’ must be psychopaths, their behaviour is really nasty.
Peter Goetzche has supported the idea that Psychiatric drugs do more harm than good, and (I believe) that even ‘Schizophrenics’ can Recover without consuming them, with support from (even) non professionals:-
But this is exactly true, and has been reliably recorded many times on Mad In America.
Probably the only Genuine Recovery from ‘Schizophrenia’ has been through rejection of the Psychiatric Drugging Approach and there is plenty of solid evidence to back this up.
Hi Ayurdhi, this is a good subject.
You’ve got the medical top dogs in charge, connected up with pharmaceutical, political, and financial interests – and the ‘professionals’ underneath are the serfs. And if they rock the boat they won’t eat.
The top dogs decide what the illnesses are, and what the cures are. And the politicians controlling the public funding – fall in line as well.
The corruption has been around a long time, it’s obvious, it’s visible – and it’s Blatant.
AKATHISIA:- Drug Toxicity Levels
https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/psychopharmacology/better-without-antipsychotic-drugs
“… a study published in 1982 reported that when a group of patients with schizophrenia were each given 20 mg of fluphenazine, the difference between the highest and lowest blood level of the drug was 40-fold. …”
https://insights.ovid.com/clinical-psychopharmacology/jcps/1983/08/000/suicide-associated-akathisia-depot-fluphenazine/6/00004714
M. SHEAR; ALLEN FRANCES; PETER WEIDDN
TRM123
We will: “MAKE AKATHISIA A HOUSEHOLD WORD”.
What nearly kills a person, can be just a passing event.
(I’m amazed at the avoidance you describe, even though I shouldn’t be).
AKATHISIA
100 years ago Suicide wasn’t much of a risk in ‘Schizophrenia’ and Life Expectancy was much the same as average.
Are MH Doctors Allowed to Set Up Situations Where Patients Get Killed…?
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
… Or Am I Getting Things Wrong?
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/your-child-does-not-have-bipolar-disorder/201402/dsm-5-and-child-neglect-and-abuse-1
The starting off point is Denial Of Reality.
Dear Dr McLaren,
‘Dangerous’ is the term used to describe Irish doctor, Dr Ivor Browne, who can turn ‘Long Term Mental Illnesses’ into Recoverable Events (without medication).
Non Bio/Bio
The Bio approach doesn’t work that’s why “Schizophrenia” is classed a long term Mental Illness, characterized by enduring disability, physical ill health, and early death.
The only people with “Schizophrenic” Diagnosis that I’ve heard of genuinely recovering, have managed to do this through the non bio approach, and rejection of the bio approach. So, for me it’s straightforward.
Mad Mother,
Treatment induced Akathisia was the worst experience of my life.
Currently, in Ireland theres an Epidemic of Homicide and Suicide, by peaceful people with no original Mental Illness, who’ve been prescribed ‘anti depressants’ by their doctors for ‘modern day life stress’.
When people on ‘antidepressants’ ‘Act Out’ the community is often alarmed and confused, and underlying serious mental illness is often promoted by the ‘experts’.
If 15% of people in Ireland take ‘antidepressants’, this would translate into maybe 300,000 people. If even 1% of this figure were prone towards Acute Akathisia this would translate into maybe 3,000 people, and this is where the Epidemic comes from.
Solution to Homelessness in Finland
https://www.rte.ie/news/world/2020/0124/1110675-homeless-finland/
Without Punishment!
In Western Europe what ‘disadvantaged’ people might expect (and receive), is help with decent housing but not incarceration in secure buildings.
‘Licence to Kill’ might be a good description for the phenomenon. I believe I can substantiate from my own records that this practice is widespread:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
Thank You Wendy and James,
I think most deaths from Akathisia could be prevented if prescribing doctors were accurately briefed on the condition, but they don’t seem to be.
You also get the Dr Shipman Type Behaviour
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
And the Regular Dreadful Headlines:
Three children found dead in Dublin house are named:-
http://www.rte.ie/news/dublin/2020/0125/1110797-children-deaths-newcastle/
“….And you say, ‘What happened to all of those beds? What happened to all of that work? And where are those people?’ And in many cases, those people are living on the streets.”…”
“..What happened to all of that work? ..” sounds a bit like locking people up in institutions could provide a living for other people!
And, a person doesn’t have to be “mentally ill” to be “homeless”.
Good Article,
“…Researcher Peter Kinderman remarked that mental illness diagnoses “frequently and uncritically reported as ‘real illnesses’ are in fact made on the basis of internally inconsistent, confused and contradictory patterns of largely arbitrary criteria.”..”
The only requirement for membership to Alcoholics Anonymous is a desire to stop drinking!
Thank you Michael,
Reading your article I was impressed by how absolutely terrible it must have been for you as a young person, all those years ago.
And then you overcame “Schizophrenia” got back to college, got a BA and then an MA, became a Psychologist, and provided services to others, that weren’t available, for you yourself.
Your story is really amazing.
Do you remember the film “The Promise” with James Garner and James Woods? It could have been a bad dream!
The extension of “schizophrenia” is amazing and frightening.
I looked up the Pamphlet and I thought the descriptions were fairly honest.
Someone Else: This one is Quite Scary
“Schizophrenia: Early Warning Signs”
https://youtu.be/9JH7G1aekxc
https://www.thejournal.ie/scientology-anti-psychotic-drugs-cchr-4959491-Jan2020/
“….THE HSE AND clinical psychiatrists have strongly criticised pamphlets being delivered across Dublin regarding antipsychotic medicines.
Leaflets warning people about the dangers of taking prescription antipsychotic medication were sent to residents in south Dublin by a group linked to the Church of Scientology in recent weeks.
The pamphlets are titled “Antipsychotics: The facts about the effects”, and are part of what is described as a psychotropic drug series published by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR)….”
“…..The information contained within this leaflet is misleading, inaccurate and shows no evidence of any understanding of the complex biological, psychological and social contributors to mental illness. The HSE advises that if this leaflet causes concern to any person who is being treated with antipsychotic medication, that they contact their GP or a member of the mental health team that is looking after them. …”
In honesty would Tich Nhat Hanh pass the test, or Eckhart Tolle, or any of the other heavy weights? Would Elanour Longden?
“…The applicants are then rated on the eight qualities that make up FIS: verbal fluency, hope & positive expectation, persuasiveness, emotional expression, warmth & understanding, empathy, alliance capacity, and alliance rupture repair. Only about 10% of peer counselor applicants pass the assessment….”
Joanna
I eventually managed to come off my ‘long acting neuroleptic injection’ many, many years ago through a very careful drug taper, and psychological means – similar to below:-
https://youtu.be/3I5L2otW4r8
I’ve remained well since, so there is no such thing as “Schizophrenia”.
KateL,
Please hang in there.
Dear Robert
On the Subject of The Unanswered Question:
Maybe the psychiatric experts were so used to interpreting or misinterpreting symptoms of normal behaviour or so called mental illness at their own convenience – that they had lost the ability to tell the difference (I’m serious).
It’s not only in Psychiatry:
https://www.motherjones.com/kevin-drum/2020/01/health-care-is-an-8000-tax-on-every-american-family/
“….Despite paying $8,000 more a year than anyone else, American families do not have better health outcomes, the economists argue. Life expectancy in the United States is lower than in Europe…”
Professors Angus Deaton and Anne Case.
Most people don’t have “mental illness” to begin with
– they either have “substance problems” or “psychological problems” (hallucinations and delusions included).
The only Factual Recovery from “Schizophrenia” on record, comes from people that reject Psychiatic drugs in favour of a Non Psychiatric approach (often of the ‘Spiritual’ Variety).
It is a Holocaust.
Most of the ‘schizophrenics’ I knew (years ago) in Ireland had very little wrong with them, as far as most people would be able to see, other than the doctors diagnosis.
Their problem was that when they tried to stop taking the ‘drugs’ they got into trouble. But there was no acknowledgement of ‘drug withdrawal syndrome’, so when they developed problems they were seen to be relapsing.
Most of these people are now dead – well before their time.
….this man has good solutions.
https://youtu.be/3I5L2otW4r8
He describes the Dynamic of Anxiety (and what to do about it) brilliantly. Having said this his “Recovery” happened in a different country.
Thanks Sarah,
This series is very worthwhile.
Life has always been stressful, but I think it’s become a lot more stressful now for the average person and the average (in the process of being deskilled) middle class person – because all the money is going in one direction – and this is being supported worldwide.
There are lots and lots of clever ways to undermine the population majority of unimportant people; and it’s still easy enough to get a very badly paid job.
I’ll have to study all your episodes first, to see if you can suggest any solutions.
A friend of mine is in a self supporting peer group. And the subject of “medication” is a very sensitive point within this group.
My friend said that it was very important NOT to advise anyone on this subject, BUT that a person could always relate their own experience of what worked for them (and what didn’t) in their own Recovery.
Exposure To Strong Psychiatric Drugs Causes “Severe Mental Illness”
A Black Man in England is 10 times more likely to be diagnosed with “Schizophrenia” than a White Man. But Complete Recovery Rates from “Schizophrenia” for Black Men are Not proportionally higher.
I believe this is because Exposure to Neuroleptic Drugs (aka ‘anti psychotics’) causes Long term Mental Illness, regardless of whether a person is, ‘Well’ or ‘Unwell’ to begin with.
Yes!
AKATHISIA
In Psychiatry what causes suicide causes homicide, and psychiatric drugs cause suicide.
The increase in consumption of Psychiatric Drugs in Ireland has created an Epidemic of Homicides and Familicides committed by Normal People taking “medications” for “modern living” related Anxiety.
Whenever I listen to Eckhart Tolle Iearn some, because of his ability to explain and motivate.
https://youtu.be/t-pZ6FuEQqw
The Peers have the success, that the most qualified Psychiatrists don’t. So I think if a person wants a solution they might go to the peers.
Also, even the most qualified Psychiatrists often make people worse.
Dr Peter,
EVIDENCE BASED MEDICINE AND THE EXPULSION…
“….Torrey wrote to call attention to Gøtzsche’s association with an organization called the Hearing Voices Network, which, Torrey claims, “promotes the belief that … auditory hallucinations are merely on end of a normal behavior spectrum.” …”
On this subject (alone) Torrey tends to disagree with you – yet there is ample evidence that you are factually right.
Are you going to present the Evidence…?
.
They’re taking the piss!
In the first three to six months the person is totally unused to drugs and more than likely without information – and the staff are trained to keep quiet. So its a lottery!
Schizophrenia.com
Preventing Suicide in people with Schizophrenia
http://schizophrenia.com/suicide.html
“…Males with schizophrenia attempt suicide at a much higher rate than females; approximately 60% of them will make at least one attempt.
Particular times that people with schizophrenia tend to be suicidal include
1) Periods when they are very psychotic and out of touch with reality,
2) Periods when they are very depressed,
3) In the first 6 to 9 months after they have started first taking medications, when they are thinking more clearly and learn that the they have schizophrenia (and all the negative aspects that this connotates)….”
IN MY CASE AND I THINK IN MOST CASES:- NEUROLEPTIC INDUCED AKATHISIA IS CAUSING THE SUICIDE ATTEMPTS…
Since Akathisia can also cause uncontrollable Violence I would say on balance, Society would be safer without Neuroleptic Medication.
“…From paracetamol (known as acetaminophen in the US) to antihistamines, statins, asthma medications and antidepressants, ..” AND NEUROLEPTICS.
NEUROLEPTICS
They are profoundly disabling, and if a person can come off them successfully, then they can regain their ability to perform.
Mood, Personality, and Behavior Changes During Treatment with Statins: A Case Series
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5005588/
“…“Probable” causality was limited to those who experienced occurrence following drug initiation, had the drug discontinued, and improved following drug discontinuation…”
That’s what happened to me with Neuroleptics!
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_Peterson
“…In 2019, Peterson entered a rehabilitation facility after experiencing symptoms of physical withdrawal when he stopped taking clonazepam, an anti-anxiety drug. He had begun taking the drug upon his doctor’s recommendation following his wife’s cancer diagnosis.[143][…”
.
Mood, Personality, and Behavior Changes During Treatment with Statins: A Case Series
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5005588/
“…“Probable” causality was limited to those who experienced occurrence following drug initiation, had the drug discontinued, and improved following drug discontinuation…”
There might be a ‘small’ group!
The choice of words is very appropriate, here:-
“…The colossal overuse of psychoactive drugs produces chronic patients, often based on problems that are inherently temporary….”
Someone Else,
I support the complete nonexistence of “Schizophrenia” as a disease or a condition. But I do support the idea that a person might need help in dealing with trauma.
I don’t support the long term invalide idea of even non drug support.
I attend Peer groups in London in the UK and I’ve seen people completely falling apart get back on their feet again, consistently, with a little bit of genuine help.
The Peer movement wants people well, and doesn’t get paid or have anything to benefit from keeping people sick.
“..Dr. Fromm-Reichmann was a psychoanalyst famed for her compassion and her skill in reaching even the most seemingly intractable cases of “schizophrenia” with intensive psychotherapy — and without neurotoxic drugs..”
I was eventually diagnosed as such a dreadful “schizophrenic”.
To overcome my “Schizophrenia” I had to do two things.
1. Come off my Neuroleptics very S L O W L Y.
2. Come to terms with the HIGH ANXIETY of my Neuroleptic Withdrawal, which I achieved through recognising its Dynamic.
Less than 3 years later I decided to re immigrate back to the England so I went to visit a local priest to ask him for a character reference. Which he provided:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PW-wn9GOkiyWAbdzgXuC8cDS-7UPEj0-/view?usp=drivesdk
But, in his 1986 Character Reference Letter the local priest seems to suggest that I had been very well – over the period of time my Consultant Psychiatrist considered me to be a hopeless “Schizophrenic”.
Surely Medical Opinion Cannot Overide Facts:-
If a person remains sick while cooperating with treatment, and makes complete recovery as a result of stopping treatment, then the treatment is the problem.
I think Dr Shipmans argument was that the people that died in his care, had died of there own accord. But he didn’t getaway with it.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harold_Shipman
I wonder if Dr Shipman was badly treated?
Dr Peter
If Sandra got better as a result of carefully stopping medical treatment, then scientifically – the medical treatment had been the problem, NOT her.
The link above represents the challenges of an Irish Travelling Group in Modern Britain.
Thank You Dr Peter, for this inspirational offer,
This is what I wrote to my doctor:-
My Response to the GP Delisting Letter 2018
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
After he wrote this to me:-
The GP Delisting Letter 2018
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VB1L7C7G87DNmS-uS3blngY3CMtOH5gl/view?usp=drivesdk
“….They did not understand it at the time, but discovered along the way, what the receptor saturation curve means, namely…..”
What worked for me in the 1990s was meditation. It wasn’t very expensive maybe £20.00 and taught by the Western Buddhist Fellowship (in Central London).
I’d been on antidepressants, which I believe were prescribed, to cover for my suicidal reactions to Strong Psychiatric Drugs.
I had come off maintenance doses of psychiatric drugs suitable for schizophrenia, and I was certainly miserable but I wouldn’t equate this to genuine clinical depression.
I am aware that meditation might not work for everyone – but it certainly did work consistently for me.
(I now have 30 years plus independence of the MH Services).
I scanned through the Article and I still believe its “Deadly Medicines and Organized Crime”, but I might be prejudiced (I was disabled for several years by Psychiatric Drugs + I was nearly killed several times by Psychiatric Drugs + I made full Recovery, with the help of psychology, as a result of carefully stopping Psychiatric Drugs).
You should put your articles into a book, Lawrence.
It’d be a bestseller if it didn’t get banned.
I think you’re being discrete:-
“…Aggressive diagnosing/medicating may partly explain why healthcare costs are much higher, yet lifespans are falling here…”
I’m sure there’s a bit more mileage in the series!
Alex
You are a brilliant writer.
..because their brains have been damaged.
Note, that the “antipsychotic” drugs cause the classic symptoms of “schizophrenia”.
…The Tribal lifestyle has been mooted as a solution for LONLINESS ….
https://youtu.be/jDgZuMCTmoA
…but that’s not easy either.
Do you remember all those articles we were seeing about LONLINESS all the time; and still are around from time to time.
https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2019/jan/26/pill-for-loneliness-psychology-science-medicine
There’s either a pill now available for LONLINESS or there will be soon.
Brilliant Dr Lawrence,
The worst member of the AA is probably better at helping someone with a “Drink Problem”, than the best Qualified Doctor or Psychologist.
“….C. People used to go to AA meetings or substance abuse counselors in order to kick an alcohol/drug habit, which was considered a non-physical problem. But then it was declared to be a literal physical (brain) disease and thus also became a doctor’s realm — addiction medicine. These doctors lure and steal clients by offering addictive medicine to addicts!..”
(The organised rehab centres are extremely expensive but subsidised by the taxpayer (in the UK), and once an alcoholic recovers and stays off the booze for a period of time, the counsellor approaches them with a suggestion of attempted social drinking. Acoholism is a relapsing disorder so the client is encouraged to relapse).
I like the way you include everyone in the madness description. It’s the truth!
In my opinion the Psychiatric approach is a form of “Schizophrenia”.
Rachel777,
Taking an SSRI is not too serious, but if a person reacts they can be labelled Bipolar, and then they are in TROUBLE.
This is an undertood phenomenon, and it is equivalent to poisoning the water supply.
Why are Psychiatrists allowed to do this?
Madmom,
As far as I was concerned the main thing was not to get caught in the clutches of the system again. So once i got off the worst of the drugs, I took it easy. But once I got off the worst of the drugs I met the requirement for being well i.e. I could apply myself.
Even so the reactive anxiety was absolutely horrendous. (‘CBT’ can work for this).
There is no compulsory treatment in Ireland as far as I know, once a person is out of hospital – and this makes for more reliable standards.
Will,
I firmly believe Psychiatric Drugs cause “Schizophrenia and Bipolar” as we know them today.
I also believe that I can substantiate this from my own experience and from my own medical records (and I intend doing so).
I was talking to a doctor friend of mine over Christmas about the use of psychiatric drugs and he predicted in years to come that, “these days” would be viewed as the dark times in “Mental Health” when doctors didn’t know what they were doing.
He related to me that cancer recovery has become commonplace now, not because of better drugs, but because doctors have become so expert at using them.
In “Mental Health” there’s a lot “medical experts” can learn from the “non co operative patients” that make Full Longterm Recovery as a result of rejecting Professional Advice.
There’s a capacity for psychotherapy to attempt to abuse as much as psychiatry.
I believe psychotherapists need to split in terms of those that support psychotherepeutic recovery for people diagnosed “Schizophrenic” and “Bipolar” – and those who can’t handle this.
It took me 6 years to go from an ‘antipsychotic’ ‘maintenance dose’ to a ‘totally non thereuptic’ dose (…and eventually this became nothing).
But even then I would n’t have been successful if I hadn’t made the ‘realisation’ – that I had to detach from my ‘head’ completely when I was in ‘Catastrophy’ – and when I was able to do this – my Intuition took over and guided me.
And Matt Stevensons (death), not too long after exposing and campaigning under his own identity.
Psychiatrists Are Saying Trump might be Dangerous…
https://www.google.com/amp/s/amp.businessinsider.com/psychiatrists-submit-warning-trumps-mental-health-deteriorating-2019-12
..but the Psychiatrists reasoning might be Dangerously Faulty.
(His make up was well known when people voted for him, and doesn’t seem to have changed much..)
This particular research study team….
DEPOT ANTIPSYCHOTIC REVISITED
https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/ps.49.10.1361-b
…includes a C.P.N. nurse who actually called at my house in Ireland in the 1980s when I refused to take my monthly depot injection. When I explained the problems I was having with Akathisia to him, he was at the time sympathetic – but he did NOT record my problems on the records.
The above study does refer to extrapyrammidal movement problems BUT does NOT refer to Akathisia Induced Suicide – which is something the Authors were Aware of.
The Psychologist at the same Psychiatric Unit as I attended, promised me in the 1980s that ALL the “patients” attending could make complete recovery without medication and through psychology.
There’s a Licence To Kill on “Schizophrenics” so it’s not good to be one of them.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
(And the country I come from biggest Export is Pharmaceuticals).
Hi Bob,
“…That people diagnosed with schizophrenia needed to be on these drugs, and that to speak about research that questioned that belief, which I had done, was to expose people to harm…”
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_van_Os
“…In 2016 he published an editorial arguing that disease classifications should drop the concept of “schizophrenia”, as it is an unhelpful description of symptoms.[8]..”
I’d completely drop the term “schizophrenia” and not replace it with anything else – and concentrate on helping a person with (any) “problems” the person might have.
I’d see an approach like this eradicating “Schizophrenia” – but would this be whats wanted???
How can people like Charles Nemeroff get away with their “behaviour” (in Mental Health). If this was to happen in any other area surely they’d be prosecuted.
The “Mental Health” corruption has got to go higher than doctors and drug companies!
As someone that’s consumed strong Psychiatric Drugs over a period of time (and recovered as a result of discontinuation), I’d say that that the overall mental and physical damage done by the drugs is worse than the “conditions” the drugs are supposed to treat.
“….He also began to investigate iatrogenic harms of antidepressants—the notion that the drugs used to treat the condition are, instead, making it more chronic and resistant to future treatment. He began asking questions: Why did those who continued to take the drug long-term have more risk of relapse than those who decided to stop taking the drug? Why did those who tried more drugs have higher risk of relapse?..”
Slaying the Dragon,
There are literally millions of stories like this in progress right now!
Thank you very much for writing this Bob. It is realistic.
In the developed World “Schizophrenia” is clearly caused by Psychiatric Drugs.
“…..The long and the short of it is that I no longer see myself as “mentally ill.” I also no longer need to jump out of my skin from chronic discomfort, regret for my past and fear for my future. What I think I’m up against is the human condition. The stress response is part of that. Like all things human, the stress response is mixed. In the right circumstances, it is a life-saving, life-enriching gift. In the wrong ones, it is a curse that can make my life a living hell….”
I’m looking forward to the next instalments!
Psychologist Dr Jordan Peterson
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jordan_Peterson
“….In 2019, Peterson entered a rehabilitation facility after experiencing symptoms of physical withdrawal when he stopped taking clonazepam, an anti-anxiety drug. He had begun taking the drug upon his doctors recommendation following his wife’s cancer diagnosis.[144][14….”
“….Jim van Os, a professor of psychiatry at Maastricht University, is part of a growing number of professionals around the world calling for the end to the concept of schizophrenia….”
The difference between me and a “long term disabled schizophrenic” is that I was able to come off strong Psychiatric Drugs in 1984 through psychological means – even though I initially nearly died several times in the process.
(And a historical doctor was prepared to ackowledge drugs ‘causing problems’).
The “untreated” “schizophrenics” might get into trouble for stealing a loaf of bread, or a pint of milk but are not generally speaking, even as dangerous as the average person.
Even “schizophrenics” that “act out” on medications (akathisia) usually do so by going into a corner and quietly suiciding.
Unfortunately there are lots and lots of completely normal Americans, now living in worse than 3rd World conditions of destitution (much the same as the destitute “schizophrenics”).
International Jails are generally full of people that have behaved violently under the influence of Alcohol not under the influence of “Schizophrenia” (and President Trump *”has a genetic connection” with alcoholism).
The Republic of Ireland has an Epidemic problem with familial Homicide and Suicide committed by normal people (taking antidepressants) – NOT “Schizophrenics”.
*I don’t believe in the principle of alcoholic genetic liability – its a Psychiatric Principle.
Thanks Sarah, You’re always brilliant. I’ll have to analyse this article for nuggests of wisdom!
Somatic Psychotherapist Peter Levine demonstrates PTSD Recovery
https://youtu.be/Oz8tnuXbNAY
Dear Sam,
What other medical speciality would employ people that are trained to operate at the standard of Psychiatry. I think for the most part they’d be unemployable!
“…..No doubt for daring to expose this, I will be subject to the usual barrage of secret complaints by anonymous authors, which will be investigated in camera by an unnamed committee considering evidence I am not allowed to see, who will reach a decision that favours the status quo, and for which there will be no effective appeal. Because that’s how psychiatrists operate…”
Don’t worry Dr Niall you’re already in “negative popularity territory”.
“…..TMZ broke the story, Britney spent 30 days at an L.A. mental health facility after she began rapidly going downhill … she stopped taking the drugs that kept her stable after they stopped working and doctors still have been unable to find the right combination….”
Dear Dr Niall,
I like your straight talking style.
“….The one thing they will never do is have a fair, open, transparent and, above all, honest debate about the realities of being mentally disturbed in Australia…” It sounds like “they” are the ones that are disturbed!
“…..a person with that kind of wealth would be attracting a lot of people toward them, many of whom may not have their best interests in mind.” It’s hard to imagine the same paternalism applied to a male rock star….”
Below rock star Bob Geldof describes Despair – in non medical terms …
https://youtu.be/5wHk35Ix9Z8
2 things that should be obvious to ‘Professionals’ working in ‘Mental Health’:-
Psychiatric Drugs cause ‘Longterm Mental Illness’.
Psychiatric Drugs cause Suicide.
Is there some type of drive on to sabotage society and disable people? It looks to me like there could be!
Sylvain,
This is exactly it, getting people on to drugs. To say Ketamine can genuinely help anyone is bollocks.
It’s like saying Tranquillisers (Neuroleptics) work – they don’t.
In the UK a 2nd generation Caribeann Man is 10 times more likely to be diagnosed “schizophrenic” than an indigenous UK man, but is not many times more likely to completely recover. Its the Psychiatric treatments that cause the “long term conditions”.
I have a friend that’s in Alcoholics Anonymous and he says that if a person stops drinking and life stays okay then that’s good. But if a person stops drinking and they find other problems begin to cause trouble then this is something the AA could help them with.
“…that theirs is the only conceivable approach to mental disorder and that all criticism is malicious…”
The 47 year old veteran (you mentioned) might be better off attending a 12 step group mixing with people who understood exactly where he was coming from.
“….When psychiatrists are so insecure that they need to assail the UN HRC, we know there is something seriously wrong.9..” Psychiatrists are doctors that are not employable doing anything other than what they do (prescribing “medications”) – I think this is what’s wrong.
[In the long run, as far as I can see, psychiatric treatments make people more, not less distressed].
TERRIBLE ANXIETY
Q. Do Psychiatric Drugs cause Anxiety?
A. In my experience they can cause Terrible Anxiety.
Q. Is it possible to overcome this Anxiety?
A. Yes it definitely is.
Q. How?
A. In lots and lots of Normal Ways (and by carefully coming off the medication).
Hospitalization (or Crisis) can be caused by trying to come off “medication” too quickly.
It took 6 years for me to taper from 25mg of Modecate Depot injection (maintenance dose) per month; to 25 mg per day of Thioradazine (tablet form) which is be about 8% of a (300mg Thioradazine per day) Maintenance Dose.
I was okay with the 6 year time frame, as my disability came to an end, when I stopped taking the Depot Injection.
Nice to see you on Mad In America again, Dr Peter. You’re an honest and courageous doctor.
Some “doctors” would promote “anything”!
He’s unemployable!
ANXIETY
I don’t know how children deal with their anxiety, but I know how I deal with my own – I detach if I’m able and if I’m not able, I think in circles. If I’m able to detach, my intuition eventually takes over, and I know what to do.
Someone told me that intuition is not a 6th sense, it’s the 1st sense that a baby has.
It might be very difficult though for a person to overcome anxiety if they re in an impossible situation – which I’m glad to say, I’m not.
Frank,
I think I can prove what you’re saying is true.
How about the disease of “Non Existent Severe Mental Illness”.
It’s nice to read your “Mad in Norway” introduction communicated in excellent English; I’m a survivor through experience myself. Good Luck and please keep in touch. I’m sure we can benefit from the contact.
I don’t think Norway is a full member of the EEC, but I think it is closely connected.
SCHIZOPHRENIA $$$
What does “has a Diagnosis of Schizophrenia” (in isolation) mean?
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1s-mEHH5pLC5EzWpxjnOLKcylQOTJ-Kvw/view?usp=drivesdk
Does it mean a person that can do nothing for themselves?
Or
Does it mean a person that is completely okay?
WIKIPEDIA
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schizophrenia
“….Approximately three-fourths of people with schizophrenia have ongoing disability with relapses[35] and 16.7 million people globally are deemed to have moderate or severe disability from the condition.[169] Some people do recover completely and others function well in society….”
UK NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/schizophrenia/
“…Schizophrenia is a severe long-term mental health condition…”
“…Doctors often describe schizophrenia as a type of psychosis. This means the person may not always be able to distinguish their own thoughts and ideas from reality…”
“….Symptoms of schizophrenia include: hallucinations – hearing or seeing things that do not exist outside of the minddelusions – unusual beliefs not based on reality muddled thoughts based on hallucinations or delusions losing interest in everyday activitiesnot caring about your personal hygiene wanting to avoid people, including friends…”
“…Schizophrenia does not cause someone to be violent and people with schizophrenia do not have a split personality….”
Representation of Schizophrenia in Isolation is something Professionals in the UK do again and again. There’s Good Money in it.£££
I think Public Medical Systems can shop around for suitable care not available nationally, within the EEC,
I know Ireland uses UK Health facilities.
The thing about Hurdalsjøen is that it practically offers a “cure”.
If you look at the people who recover (from “Schizophrenia; Depression; Anxiety; BiPolar”) a lot of them recover from the Dr Wayne Dyer (Deepak Chopra, Eckhart Tolle) type of approach.
(Not to distract) The Mental Health System reminds me of the Industrial Farming System:- Its very cruel, it’s ‘invisable’, and every bit of value belonging to the ‘animal’ is exploited.
[I was in a Famous NHS London Eye Hospital a few years ago after being sent there by my Optician to double check me for Glaucoma risk.
I was examined by a youngish doctor, and I mentioned to them that I had historically consumed psychotropics and that they had affected my eyes. The doctor told me that this was not the case, even though Patient Information Leaflets to most Psychotropic drugs warn of Eye Damage.
The doctor kept what I had expressed regarding my own experience off my records, and entered into my notes a Severe Mental Illness Diagnosis].
Thanks for this Article. The corruption can’t be exposed enough!
Philip,
Dr Huda has nowhere else to go!
In my twenties when I was coming off medication I ended up in hospital several times until I was able to finally reduce right down. And then I made full recovery and return to normal life – as the medications had been disabling me.
I had complained about the “medication disability” but my Consultant Psychiatrist had kept this off my Records – even though he himself had stated “my disability” to be my Problem.
For me Recovery depended on my Ability to deal with my Rebound High Anxiety.
https://youtu.be/vdKs13kf13A
“Mooji” wasnt around at this time but I found Psychologist “Dr Wayne Dwyer” very insightful.
Eckharte Tolle ‘Power of Now’ also has good solutions which he says can be benefited from ‘organically’.
(The psychiatric treatments break the mind and a person needs the right kind of help to recover).
Dear Dr Joanna,
This is an interesting point if it is approached scientifically, especially with the beneficial research work you do. I apologise for any cynicism.
Otherwise, I think “Relapse” might depend on how the doctor might choose to describe the situation (even with standards in place).
For example “Paranoia” could be described as Anxiety. Or “Psychosis” could be described as Hysteria.
Severe Mental Illness categorization is supposed to refer to a person who is more disabled – than blind or in a wheelchair. So it’s difficult to say exactly what a Non Relapsing Severely Mentally Ill Person would be.
I believe activist Will Hall recounted once in an article that he was incarcerated as acutely mentally Ill In a mental hospital until his insurance money ran out – and then discharged as well.
I can prove I recovered as a result of stopping my depot injection medication in 1984.
Reference 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1PW-wn9GOkiyWAbdzgXuC8cDS-7UPEj0-/view?usp=drivesdk
(But the reference above suggests, I’ve always been okay).
The Drugs in my opinion, cause the illness and what I had to get was a ‘Power of the Now’ or “Mooji” perspective:
https://youtu.be/vdKs13kf13A
…and this worked.
Medical Tourism is what it’s probably going to be at the start; but maybe cheaper than at home!
I’d imagine lots of successful variations will eventually develop, as the users help each other.
With a bit of luck it will take off!
Dear Moderator,
I was putting the above comments together on my mobile while the battery kept running out, and I had difficulty editing them.
Of the above moderated comments (originally December 6, 2019 at 4:39 pm), I have provided three nearly identical versions. Please take which ever one suits you.
There’s another two empty comments – please remove them.
Thanks a lot.
Fiachra
INITIAL BATTERING NOV 1980.
The “medications” I was given Every Day for two months were: 100 mg Haloperidol per day; 1000 mg of Largactil per day; 50 mg of modecate per month; and ECT and Lithium towards the end of my stay:-
Daily Drugs Chart example 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R20LgbJwIDqd0VTp755vTBjeEI5hZDaD/view?usp=drivesdk
Daily Drugs Chart example 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sJT81-n1RsZ_bJ4g-dA8P20_wHBEkPKd/view?usp=drivesd
DOSAGE EQUIVALENTS
(comparison-of-the-defined-daily-dose-and-chlorpromazine-equivalent-methods-in-antipsychotic-drug-utilization-in-six-asia.pdf)
Haloperidol at 100mg is on average equivalent to 4,250mg of Chloropromazine (Thorazine).
My DAILY Polypharmacy Cocktail would have been roughly equivalent to 6,000 mg of Thorazine per DAY for 2 MONTHS, after which I was a complete PHYSICAL MESS and have never fully recovered.
MAD
But Psychologist Dr Richard Bentall went MAD on a lot less (of the same drug Haloperidol)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IlzqwNraKOFLxIU7TjC2tCMTh1fB6tu4/view?usp=drivesdk
SLOW TAPER
By 1990 I had tapered down to 25mg per DAY of Thioradazine equivalent to 25mg of Chloropromazine/Thorazine which would be LESS than .05% of what I had consumed per DAY in hospital in 1980. Thioradazine at 25 mg per DAY would also be equivalent to about 8%of a daily maintenance dose of 300mg Thorazine.
WHAT HAPPENED
I had originally returned to London in August of 1980 after spending a number of months living and working in Amsterdam Holland. In London after some contact with the Police my passport was not within my belongings
INITIAL BATTERING NOV 1980.
The “medications” I was given Every Day for two months were: 100 mg Haloperidol per day; 1000 mg of Largactil per day; 50 mg of modecate per month; and ECT and Lithium towards the end of my stay:-
Daily Drugs Chart example 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R20LgbJwIDqd0VTp755vTBjeEI5hZDaD/view?usp=drivesdk
Daily Drugs Chart example 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sJT81-n1RsZ_bJ4g-dA8P20_wHBEkPKd/view?usp=drivesd
DOSAGE EQUIVALENTS
(comparison-of-the-defined-daily-dose-and-chlorpromazine-equivalent-methods-in-antipsychotic-drug-utilization-in-six-asia.pdf)
Haloperidol at 100mg is on average equivalent to 4,250mg of Chloropromazine (Thorazine).
My DAILY Polypharmacy Cocktail would have been roughly equivalent to 6,000 mg of Thorazine per DAY for 2 MONTHS, after which I was a complete PHYSICAL MESS and have never fully recovered.
MAD
But Psychologist Dr Richard Bentall went MAD on a lot less (of the same drug Haloperidol)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IlzqwNraKOFLxIU7TjC2tCMTh1fB6tu4/view?usp=drivesdk
The Study (above) was undertaken by Dr David Healy, who had witnessed (in his training) my recovery as a result of carefully tapering from “my medication”.
SLOW TAPER
By 1990 I had tapered down to 25mg per DAY of Thioradazine equivalent to 25mg of Chloropromazine/Thorazine which would be LESS than .05% of what I had consumed per DAY in hospital in 1980. Thioradazine at 25 mg per DAY would also be equivalent to about 8%of a daily maintenance dose of 300mg Thorazine.
WHAT HAPPENED
I had originally returned to London in August of 1980 after spending a number of months living and working in Amsterdam Holland. In London after some contact with the Police my passport was not within my belongings.
.
WHAT HAPPENED Contd.
I ended up in a Bail Hostel; then in the Maudsley Psychiatric Hospital, and was in November 1980 transferred (door to door) to the Psychiatric Unit at Galway, Southern Ireland.
AMSTERDAM
The UK side of the Irish notes contains no mention of Amsterdam. A confused History is provided by the UK accompanying Doctor (on Admission at Galway in November 1980) and written up and signed for by the Admitting Irish Doctor, Dr Fadel. The UK doctor signs nothing.
In Amsterdam I had been socially acquainted with a Northern Irish Born Again Christian that closely matches the person in the description (below)..
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_McGrady
..who had been concerned about a conversation we were supposed to have had – that I couldn’t place.
MAUDSLEY PSYCHIATRIC HOSPITAL
On arrival at the Maudsley Hospital in 1980 I walked through one door and then through another – and then I was in.
MAUDSLEY “DISCHARGE SUMMARY”
There exists a handwritten “Discharge Summary” (as described by my Historical Irish Psychiatrist Dr PA Carney – to the Irish Medical Council) from “My” UK Maudsley Psychiatrist in my Irish Notes.
But this “Discharge Summary” contains NO date of Arrival to the Maudsley Hospital; NO Mental Health Diagnosis; NO identification of the Professional that accompanied me to the hospital; NO evidence of any Admission Procedure; and NO mention of Amsterdam.
Within the “Summary” “My” UK Psychiatrist does not mention ever having met me, and is very vague on nearly everything, Bar a strong suggestion of suspected Street Drug Taking by me (even in hospital). He says I had consistently denied Street Drug Taking, as I would, as I had never Knowingly or Willingly consumed Street Drugs.
My Mental Health Experience
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
.
INITIAL BATTERING NOV 1980.
The “medications” I was given Every Day for two months were: 100 mg Haloperidol per day; 1000 mg of Largactil per day; 50 mg of modecate per month; and ECT and Lithium towards the end of my stay:-
Daily Drugs Chart example 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1R20LgbJwIDqd0VTp755vTBjeEI5hZDaD/view?usp=drivesdk
Daily Drugs Chart example 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sJT81-n1RsZ_bJ4g-dA8P20_wHBEkPKd/view?usp=drivesd
DOSAGE EQUIVALENTS
(comparison-of-the-defined-daily-dose-and-chlorpromazine-equivalent-methods-in-antipsychotic-drug-utilization-in-six-asia.pdf)
Haloperidol 100mg is on average equivalent to 4,250mg of Chloropromazine (Thorazine).
My Polypharmacy Cocktail would have been roughly equivalent to 6,000 mg of Thorazine per DAY for 2 MONTHS, after which I was a PHYSICAL MESS and have never fully recovered.
MAD
But Psychologist Dr Richard Bentall went MAD on a lot less (of the same drug Haloperidol)
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IlzqwNraKOFLxIU7TjC2tCMTh1fB6tu4/view?usp=drivesdk
The Study (above) was undertaken by Dr David Healy, who had witnessed (in his training) my recovery as a result of carefully tapering from “my medication”.
DR HEALY LETTER
https://drive.google.com/file/d/101SjCQ-o4-_Qhm7o9dh24QQ6QKgTlkWj/view?usp=drivesdk
SLOW TAPER
By 1990 I had tapered down to 25mg per DAY of Thioradazine equivalent to 25mg of Chloropromazine/Thorazine which would be LESS than .05% of what I had consumed per DAY in hospital in 1980. Thioradazine at 25 mg per DAY would also be equivalent to about 8%of a daily maintenance dose of 300mg Thorazine.
WHAT HAPPENED
I had originally returned to London in August of 1980 after spending a number of months living and working in Amsterdam Holland. In London after some contact with the Police my passport was not within my belongings.
I am very sorry to hear of Julie Greene’s passing. She contributed quite a lot to The Struggle in the last few years with her brilliant writing, and there was the feeling, that the best was yet to come.
Julie Greene was also one of the very few people to honestly acknowledge my own Psychiatric Experience:-
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
Julie C. Greene when she Spoke Out, personally identified herself in the same way that Stephen Gilbert did.
Sam Plover
If you look at these people here, it could be said that they’re killing time (expensively):-
BBC News – Nato summit: PM hails ‘solidarity’ after anniversary talks
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/election-2019-50653296
Sam Plover,
I don’t completely understand that one myself.
Most of the “schizophrenic” people I knew in Ireland were very ‘Adult’ but trapped in Psychiatry, by the ‘medications’.
1. Thought disorder – logically you are correct and the doctor is not.
2. Grandiose Delusions – look at the amount of interest this article has generated!
4. It would be possible to claim anyone to be mentally ill, on the grounds that they disagree that they are mentally ill.
and clinicians backing each other up in Mental Health – this is exactly what they actually do.
“…As Dutch psychiatrist Jim Van Os has claimed, an entity called schizophrenia does not exist….”
Yes:- there are people that hear voices and can live in harmony with them; there are plenty of eccentric people that thrive; paranoid violence is often celebrated, lots of happy people are actually delusional; when people come off neuroleptics they can suffer terrible anxiety but can learn to deal with it.
The reason I was able to withdraw from Neuroleptics and Overcome “Schizophrenia” and Neuroleptic Disability, was because I was able to find Psychological Approaches that worked.
…and what worked for me in overcoming “Schizophrenia” would not be too difficult to describe.
You describe Stephen Gilbert well. He was very thoughtful and compassionate and realistic.
Michael,
The Psychiatrist (in the LINK below) completely bypasses “Schizophrenia”…
https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.irishtimes.com/news/health/the-great-illusion-1.662763%3fmode=amp
….BUT has a reliable history of curing “them” through non drug means (or helping them, cure themselves).
..and his “colleagues” consider him dangerous!
Thanks Lauren.
Your article makes a lot of sense to me right now (and by coincidence I was listening to Deepak Chopra myself today).
Thanks Chaya,
A lot of identification with you Jesse In your historical plight. I remember a guy saying to me once that the only reason we survive, is to help other people survive.
It’s good to see you putting the public media system to a positive use. Like Someone else said – I must get on to twitter myself.
Thanks again for the Article.
…and commonplace!
Thanks Michael and Someone else,
You explain yourself very reasonably in this brilliant article, Michael.
I don’t believe in “Schizophrenia”; or “Psychosis”(most of the time). I believe “mental health drugs cause long term mental illness” and that normal solutions (to distress) can be found, outside of “medicine”.
I experienced “very high anxiety” when I attempted to withdraw from neuroleptics and ended up in hospital several times as a result, before eventually discovering non drug solutions – which can be proven to work.
3. I did say “Nurses are drugging the food to make patients drowsy.”
Covert Medication
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3512364/
Abstract.
“… Covert medication is the practice of hiding medication in food or beverages so that it goes undetected. Tablets may be crushed or liquid forms of medication may be used for patients who are either not in a position to give consent or refuse consent because of lack of insight….”
https://www.nursingcenter.com/journalarticle?Article_ID=1311932&Journal_ID=54030&Issue_ID=1311732
“…A patient’s irrational refusal to take medication can be frustrating for the nurse. Crushing the pill into applesauce or ice cream saves time and effort, and spares the patient the aggravation of quarreling. But while hiding medication is sometimes ethically justified, often it is not….”
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC539843/
Conclusions. “…The covert administration of drugs is common in Norwegian nursing homes. Routines for such practice are arbitrary, and the practice is poorly documented in the patients’ records…”
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3031933/
“….In response to this case the following focused question was formulated: In patients with mental disorders (schizophrenia, dementia and so on), is use of concealed medications in food or drink, rather than prescribing medications in the usual way or forcibly administering them, ethically justifiable?…”
https://www.cqc.org.uk/guidance-providers/adult-social-care/administering-medicines-covertly
“……Covert administration is only likely to be necessary or appropriate where:
a person actively refuses their medicine
that person is judged not to have the capacity to understand the consequences of their refusal.
Such capacity is determined by the Mental Capacity Act 2005
the medicine is deemed essential to the person’s health and wellbeing..”
This is quite interesting for me in the sense that I mix with people that have withdrawn from substance and can compare this community with the “Psyciatric/Severely Mentally Ill” community.
Most “Psychiatric” people are gentle with just about a reasonable amount of “problems” whereas the substance community are often completely mad (but undiagnosed).
What I believe got me free from my Neuroleptic dependency was the idea of Step No 3 of the “12 Step Fellowships” but within my own understanding:- the idea of “stopping” as my head was incapable of doing anything in the state it was in!
What about these ADHD children
https://youtu.be/HOiGm-X8cak
do they look frightened?
Thank you also for sharing, Francesca.
If you robbed a bank you wouldn’t get 10 years.
It brings back the misery of “psychiatry” to me. Having to “please” defeats the purpose.
When I was in my early 20s I was given permission to come off drugs completely, but I couldn’t. I experienced hospitalizations and suicide attempts. But then I discovered that I could cut the medication to a level that didn’t disable me (and get back to life).
Thanks again, you’re writing is very sharp!
Successful Peer Support for “Schizophrenia”
https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/the-transformative-power-of-peer-support-in-recovering-from-mental-illness/
400 million Euro per year on Drugs; 10 million Euro per year on Counselling
https://www.thejournal.ie/readme/we-spend-e400-million-each-year-on-drugs-while-only-e10-million-is-spent-on-counselling-4059296-Jun2018/
Ireland has a very large Pharmaceutical Industry.
“…A new study by UCD and Jigsaw yesterday shows one in four young people in Ireland suffers from anxiety . .”
I believe Robert Whitaker said, that everyone suffered from Anxiety.
.
That’s for sure!
It makes sense to me that people who are at risk of going without their basic needs, are not going to gain much from psychotherapy. Unless the psychotherapy can show them how to survive better.
But in Western Europe according to my (historical) experience a person can only be so poor!
I consumed tricyclic antidepressants for a number of years and found, starting them, being on them, and stopping them, made no difference to my mood whatsoever. But I hadn’t been clinically depressed to begin with!
I was a completely disabled person until I scaled down on “antipsychotics”.
Two Different Stories!
My Response to GP delisting Letter:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
GP delisting Letter (October 2018):-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VB1L7C7G87DNmS-uS3blngY3CMtOH5gl/view?usp=drivesdk
House of Parliament Bldngs 2002/2003
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dIKVdMN5g0GzwfU_6iUKfudLSuKjmwf0/view?usp=drivesdk
Thanks John, well expressed!
Thanks Itay,
Bob Whitaker mentions Israels attempt at “Mental Health” liberation (in part) in this video presentation:-
https://youtu.be/5DliuhZJR9A
I notice South Africa has a big ‘export’ market in Rehab Care; and the Philippines has a big ‘export’ market in qualified medical staff (who refund the country). I’d imagine any country that develops Care that gets People Well – should profit.
Very interesting Open Dialogue explanation within this UTube video for ‘psychosis’ – but no amount of analysis could have helped me deal with “my High Anxiety” on attempting to withdraw from “antipsychotics”.
But “CBT”/”Buddhism” did help me deal with this “antipsychotic drug” induced “Stress Disorder”.
So the Non Drug Approach can work successfully at both ends.
Screening + Drug Treatment = Increase in Veteran Suicides = Not a Good Advert.
I can identify with suicide attempts on drugs; and genuine recovery with routine non drug approaches.
I hope I’m not too far off topic:-
BBC News – Brain implants used to fight drug addiction in US
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/technology-50347421
You mean it’s about promoting the (very expensive) “electronic drugs”?
SCAPEGOATING
If “most people” carrying out “Mass Shootings” come from the “Normal” division of the population, NOT the “Severe Mentally Ill” division; then I don’t see how “Getting Tough” with the “Severely Mentally Ill” will reduce the “Mass Shootings”.
Thank You Leah for standing up effectively against Injustice.
“Mental Health” Misrepresentation
My Response to GP Delisting Letter:-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/114Qjp47-TmI0LJWlyKRmrC7R4QLtHITq/view?usp=drivesdk
GP Delisting Letter (October 2018):-
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1VB1L7C7G87DNmS-uS3blngY3CMtOH5gl/view?usp=drivesdk
Dr Kelly,
Thank you very much, for your research and advice.
The holistic approach did work for me for Psychotropic Drug Withdrawal (Neuroleptic LAI), and for Mental Wellbeing and Happiness.
I rebounded several times and nearly killed myself, before deciding to taper carefully. The Rebounds were recorded as Relapses; or more Chronic Severe Mental Illness. And then I had 35 years of complete wellness.
My Name was Placed by my GP Surgery, on a Severe Mental Illness Register in 2002, while I worked on House of Parliament Building Norman Shaw House:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dIKVdMN5g0GzwfU_6iUKfudLSuKjmwf0/view?usp=drivesdk
https://www.mirror.co.uk/all-about/benefit-cheats
I wonder how this fits in with Person Centred Care
Thanks for highlighting an obvious source of human distress; it can’t be emphasised too often.
But, if “Global Mental Health” were to “acknowledge” Sociostructural determinates of distress – what might they do with them?
Factually, the average present day Psychiatrist has as much of an idea of a non tranquillisation approach, as does the average librarian, or taxi driver.
It would seem to me that a person can only be excluded by an exlusive group, and exclusive groups can exclude anyone, so everyone is vulnerable to being excluded. I think this is how a lot of the world operates, and this is one of the reasons why we have mental institutions.
In my own life I have experience of being in some generally inclusive groups. Some human environments naturally operate like this.
Thank you Dr Gnaulati,
It is an interesting question why people approve of ‘pride’ and ‘success’. I wonder how much difference there might be between men and women as observers on this.
A “Diagnosis of Schizophrenia” is on of the most Fatal things that a person can get!
Thanks for the Great Blog Eric
“Learning From the Voices in My Head” by Eleanour Langdon is available on Amazon (Ebook) for £2.95, and it is an excellent and very readable book.
I don’t know whether to laugh, or to cry:-
“…The researchers hypothesized that bipolar disorder itself might lead to Parkinson’s disease since both syndromes are theorized to be disorders of the dopaminergic system. However, the researchers acknowledge that the cause of both disorders is unknown and that bipolar disorder itself “is not associated with overt evidence of neurodegeneration…”
Myself I didn’t suffer longterm neurological difficulty until I came into contact with psychiatry.
But you try reporting this to a doctor or neurologist.
That’s what it might be in a sense “evil spirits” or “human ill will”, that surround a person. There’s no reason why a ceremony shouldn’t work – to chase out the demons.
“…and one which will tell a person, to their face, that their experience is not true, not real, and not valid.”
In my case Yes and No, the Academics and Neuro Scientists that looked after me completely omitted my recent historical experience in the summer of 1980. I had spent several months in Amsterdam prior to returning to London and ending up in the Maudsley Hospital for 2 months, and then returning to the Galway Ireland Regional Hospital.
But there was no mention of Amsterdam where I had worked and lived for several months and had been socially acquainted with a young Northern Irish “Born Again Christian” man who matches the description of the person below..
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_McGrady
(he had been concerned about a conversation we were supposed to have had, but that I couldn’t place)
.
The Maudsley Psychiatrist in 1980 though vague on nearly everything else had placed a strong emphasis on “street drug abuse”. Which I repeatedly denied.
(Retrospectively I would deny knowingly or willingly taking street drugs).
When I was transferred to Ireland in November of 1980 the Mental Health “History and Formulation” (without Amsterdam) was quoted by the UK accompanying Doctor and written and signed for by the Admitting doctor, rendering the information IMO, Unreliable.
This Standard was accepted by my 1980 Consultant Psychiatrist and Academic Researcher at Galway Ireland.
The UK accompanying Doctor from 1980 (I believe) ‘committed suicide’ around 2000; and the Admitting Doctor at Ireland from 1980 (based in the UK in 2000) was barred from practising medicine.
Dear Chris Maylea and Indigo Daya,
Thank you for this very worthwhile Article.
I believe the Facts On The Ground should indicate what works, and should be followed – not Academia.
I’ve been. “Diagnosed” as “Schizophrenic” “Chronically Schizophrenic” and “Schizo Affective”, but have many, many years of proven Wellness behind me, as a result of leaving the Mainstream Psychiatric system.
My “Severe Mental Illness Disability” the Hallmark of “Severe Mental Illness”, also left me very quickly when I left the Mainstream Psychiatric System.
Had I remained “Severely Mentally Ill” for the past 40 years I would have cost the Irish Taxpayer about €3.5 Million (€80,000/Yr X 40yrs);
I cost the Irish Taxpayer about €0.35 Million (€80,000 X 4Yrs), prior to taking charge of things myself.
Exactly!
This is as a result of the hard work and persistence of individuals and organisations like Mad in America.
Everyone can probably identify with a nervous breakdown (especially ‘under stress’). But people recover, don’t they?
During a ‘Nervous Breakdown’ a person might be incapable and full of fear. A person “diagnosed with schizophrenia” might know where they are, but be disturbed.
So what’s the difference between a “nervous breakdown” and “schizophrenia”?
My external circumstances are not too different over the years but I’m happier. But a lot of people might be trapped in impossible situations.
(I remember a doctor friend telling me when someone is in a job that’s full of stress and comes to see him he tells them that the solution might be to leave the job. But a lot of people feel like they can’t, and not necessarily for the money).
They are not Antipsychotics they are Neuroleptics.
“Antipsychotic” is a marketing term, but it is inaccurate as the drugs don’t do anything for “psychosis”, the drugs “switch the whole person off”.
Dr Peter
I admire any doctor that is prepared to help people trapped in “psychiatry”.
(..but I think mass murder in “Psychiatry” is realistic. Even My own Experience was
A Licence to Kill:-
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49 ).
To Automatically Recover from “Severe Mental Illness” like “Schizophrenia” or “Manic Depression” a person needs to:-
1. Taper from the drugs very carefully
2. Join a Relevant Peer Support Group (To deal with the effects of Drug Withdrawal)
3. Expect a Rocky Ride
Am I Schizophrenic, or is my Doctor Schizophrenic?
Schizophrenic Removal 1.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1cP_smYn2khLimaiWaJdPO_vGcY-j9_Bl/view?usp=drivesdk
Schizophrenic Removal 2.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1F6ArumseTVc3djX09hJf1kc0AJfRvg06/view?usp=drivesdk
Schizophrenic Removal 3.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u2u-VbCCg5BeDJk7H2xGoKqKgZM8qf-H/view?usp=drivesdk
Schizophrenic Removal Denial
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HPB_xRRJ1cdG0AmkyAXvwrphYYpEwNEe/view?usp=drivesdk
Under reported by who?
“….A lot of our conversation has to do with the fact that we have to open up institutions; we can’t let these people be on the streets.’”..”
The “Classic Mentally Ill” are not shooting people. Its a small proportion of the large percentage of “Mentally Well People” that take Psychiatric Drugs for convenience, that are going on the Rampage.
“..In 2013, the maid of honor in Tittl’s wedding committed suicide. Then his cousin committed suicide. Another relative was institutionalized with a serious mental illness that year….”
I’ve experienced the same thing myself regarding suicide and my own extended family; and I have also attempted suicide twice myself. My problem was Akathisia.
Hallucinations = Brain Damage?
I think the McMinfulness movement is about pulling Mindfulness down. I notice a lot of ‘catch phrases’ are used repeatedly, even though I doubt the people using them know what they mean.
Most of the ‘SMI’ recovery stories I’ve seen on MIA have the spiritual side of ‘Meditation’ included in them.
To prove the point:- When I was at school in Ireland, English was the 98% Official Language. Irish (Gaelic) was also taught and promoted at school for 12 years up to the school leaving age of 16. But the majority of students, after 12 years of schooling, were not up to standard in the language.
But any child can learn a language naturally in 6 months.
When I was at school (as an incentive) a good pass in Irish in the final exams was worth 2 credits which would guarantee a person entry into University. And anybody up to standard in Irish taking the final exams was more or less guaranteed this.
(But the students were still incapable of learning the language through the school system).
.
Doesn’t at all surprise me.
I notice lots of people who work in Mainstream Mental Health for some reason seem to live not too far away from “the Joker” they mightn’t act out, but its very much in there.
But the UK even acknowledges how hopeless the “Mental Health” System has become. Theres nothing of value to export.
Thanks Sarah,
Your Message is always extremely constructive and I’m very interested in your initiatives.
I was at a late night peer group myself (11PM to 12 AM), when I saw your Article and have been attempting to absorb it since.
Peer Groups Can Make a Big Difference.
….and there’s probably a Diagnosis for 1 in every 3.
Lancet is England I presume. And England seems to have far too many of its own “Mental Health Problems” to involve itself anywhere else.
For example 1 in every 4 adults in England have been prescribed a psychotropic drug in the past year.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2019/09/09/one-four-british-adults-prescribed-potentially-addictive-drugs/
..and it’s probably the same all over the ‘developed’ world.
HUMAN RIGHTS
Dear Dr Dainius Pūras,
Do “Schizophrenics” have the “highest” rate of Suicide?
I was diagnosed in 1980, at the age of 20; and between 1980 and 1984 experienced a series of Suicidal hospitalizations, culminating in 1984 with me discontinuing drugs (depot injection) suitable for schizophrenia – and made Recovery. The DRUGS had CAUSED the SUICIDAL Hospitalizations (and the DISABILITY).
In October 2018 I went (with my notes) to see Professor of Psychiatry Dr David Healy at Wales, who provided me with a Letter expressing that he was confident that I had never suffered from Schizophrenia to begin with.
Dr David Healy in 1984 had been Registrar to the Consultant Psychiatrist that had treated me between 1980 and 1984.
A LICENCE TO KILL
This was my Experience with Psychiatry:-
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
That’s what it is Madmom.
Thanks for the Article Dr Scull,
I attended a Western Buddhist Group in London many years ago to learn Buddhist Breathing Meditation, and this has improved my ‘happiness in life’ over the years, very much. I would recommend it to anyone.
Meditation is something a person can do independently, and the ‘patience’ to do it can be developed very gradually.
As far as I know Buddhist Breathing Meditation has been reliably ‘proven’ to improve happiness and quality of life.
Why is “every” Hearing Voice Group in London ON during “Working Hours”?
Do people have to be “Disabled” to attend a group?
Are these groups run by Professionals or Peers?
Nearby Groups
Camden Mixed Hearing Voices Group
Tuesdays, 12.00 – 1.00pm
Camden Voice Collective 16-25 Group
Wednesdays, 5.00 – 6.30pm
Camden Women’s Hearing Voices Group
Fridays, 2.00 – 3.15pm
Enfield Hearing Voices Group
Mondays, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Hackney I.R.I.E Mind Hearing Voices Group
Thursdays, 3.00 – 4.00pm
Hackney Women-Only Hearing Voices Group
Wednesdays, 3.30 – 5.00pm
Haringey Hearing Voices Group
Mondays, 2.00 – 3.00pm
Islington Hearing Voices Group
Fridays, 2.15 – 3.30pm
Lee House Hearing Voices Group (Hackney)
Fridays, 11.30am – 12.30pm
Westminster St Mungo’s Broadway Unusual Beliefs Group
Wednesdays, 11.00am – 12 noon
Like this one:-
“Turning towards the Healing Power of Human Conciousness”
https://youtu.be/W3NmN1F_M1I
.
Even in my hometown in Galway, Ireland in the 1980s, there existed groups where people supported each other to successfully Recover from the “Severe Mental Illnesses” (of “Manic Depression” + “Schizophrenia”):-
https://www.tcd.ie/news_events/articles/the-transformative-power-of-peer-support-in-recovering-from-mental-illness/
These Groups operated on much the same lines as
(below)
https://www.madinamerica.com/2019/10/steven-c-hayes-liberated-mind/
..but the groups were self supporting.
Dear Ruth,
I’m very sorry for Alice and Your situation
I think the “Article Title” describes things fairly accurately. ‘Mental Illness’ is longterm – because the treatment approach guarantees this.
What can be done to improve the overall situation? I would say acknowledgement of the success of the Non Drug Approaches (Open Dialogue being one of these). And acknowledgement of the dangers of abrupt psychuatric drug withdrawal.
Great Broadcast.
I’ll definitely be getting the Book!
Some lovely videos on U tube of Steven as well.
Yes I support the motion. People that don’t consume “antipsychotics” live about 25 years longer!
Hi Elizabeth,
It doesn’t surprise me that people describe SSRI s as ‘Gateway Drugs’. I’m glad you survived to describe the horror.
How can anyone ‘diagnose’ anybody else as MAD when the drugs have this effect!
This is a Much Needed International Institute
THE ORIGINAL EFFECTS OF THE DRUGS
I think it makes sense that if a person regularly consumes a psychotropic drug, that the drug becomes part of the persons ‘Mental Balance’, and if the drug is abprubtly withdrawn that the persons System can imbalance.
I think it also makes sense that if a psychotropic drug is carefully withdrawn, a person is far less likely to run into trouble, as they can see where they are going at any given stage.
MY EXPERIENCE
I stopped taking my Long Acting Neuroleptic Injection in 1984 because of its Suicidal and Disabling (Akathisia) side effects and made Complete Genuine Longterm Recovery as a result.
I was initially given permission to ‘abprubtly’ withdraw from the Long Acting Neuroleptic Injection in 1983, but I didn’t last long. I checked myself into hospital after a short length of time and ended up back on the injection.
After a number of further hospitalizations a suicide attempt (and a near suicide), I decided to very carefully withdraw from the Neuroleptic Injection with the help of oral medication. My Disability and Suicidal hospitalizations ended as a result of coming off the strong medications, and I remained Long term Well (from 1984 to 2019).
HIGH ANXIETY
I suffered from Neuroleptic withdrawal “High Anxiety”, but fortunately for me, I was able to find psychological tactics to deal with this potentially disabling condition.
I was able to recognise that I was going into “Catastrophy Mode” when it was happening, and I could recognise that my thinking was locking me in, and that if I was able to allow the “Drama” to pass off, I would (with difficulty) revert back to normal.
Eckhart Tolle describes something similar to “High Anxiety” in his book “The Power of Now” and he recommends very good ways of dealing with it.
RELAPSE OR REBOUND
My Historical 1980s Psychiatrist ‘presented’ a number of Research Papers on the Long Acting Neuroleptic Injections – where he described the inability to withdraw abrubtly from these drugs as Relapse:- My Experience contradicts this.
A LICENSE TO KILL
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
I think its always been presumed that drugs taken to make people feel happier are likely to make them feel more unhappy in the long run. It’s only ‘recently’ that people have attempted to argue against this.
I think the “McMindfulness Approach” is about destroying, a very useful ancient practice.
I don’t know if Deepak Chopra has any relevance
https://youtu.be/hngZAHKBbYA
In my opinion ‘Enduring Mental Illness’ shouldn’t be very enduring in ‘Psychology’. I remember Dr Peter Breggin (I believe) in one of his articles mentioning that a young person coming to him with Severe Diagnosis in the summer might be back at ‘school’ in the Autumn.
I believe a person can also make complete recovery with the help of a psychologist without confiding their ‘personal life’ to the psychologist.
‘Normalized’ is a good word. It’s part of the culture now for a person to ‘expect’ to maybe be killed in a hospital when they go in for routine medical treatment. People accept this as ‘just one of those things’.
With ‘Schizophrenia’ what people often suffer from when they attempt to Withdraw from strong Psychiatric Drugs is a condition described by Robert Whitaker as “High Anxiety”.
The way a person might deal with High Anxiety is the same way as someone might deal with normal anxiety:- “allowing the anxious feelings to pass off before examining the anxiety”. With High Anxiety this can be VERY VERY difficult BUT can be successful.
It’s also important to withdraw very SLOWLY from strong psychiatric medications.
If “Severe Mental Illness” IS a Long Term Mental Illness in Psychiatry requiring long term and Disabling Drug treatment ; I can’t understand how someone can Recover Completely* through Psychological means (and stopping the Disabling Drug treatment).
Examples of complete recovery throgh Psychology might be:-
Psychologist Dr Elanour Langden*
https://youtu.be/DjD6_mW7CUc
and
Psychologist Dr Rufus May*.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufus_May
Thank you for the story, Derek.
You’re in a good position now to help your friends.
I think it was Dr Kelly Brogan that said that a person can develop symptoms so severe on SSRI drug withdrawal that they compare with Acquired Immunity Disorder Syndrome.
The slower the better was my own experience.
Thanks again.
What about all the companies, that rely on the Government to operate and to make money!
If you want to turn a a Well Person into a Severely Mentally Ill Person you can do so automatically with Neuroleptics (aka ‘antipsychotics’).
Dr Richard Bentall took some himself, and he went MAD.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10565099
Julie,
Anyone who “earns” any money relies on the Government. Am I right or wrong.
AKATHISIA AWARENESS DAY
ROCHESTER, Minn. — Friday, September 20, was the first International Akathisia Awareness Day.
Deadly drug side effect recognized through first Akathisia awareness day
https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/lifestyle/health/4672416-Deadly-drug-side-effect-recognized-through-first-Akathisia-awareness-day
James,
Your writing is too complicated for me.
“…In 2010, Webber was 43 years old and had no prior history of psychosis. However, she did have a longtime history of use of psychiatric drugs…”
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2019/09/09/one-four-british-adults-prescribed-potentially-addictive-drugs/
https://rxisk.org/akathisia/
“…How common is akathisia?
Significant symptoms of akathisia occur in:
around 20% of people on an antidepressant
at least 50% of people on low doses of an antipsychotic
up to 80% or more people on higher doses of an antipsychotic…”
Drugs used for ‘schizophrenia’ cause AKATHISIA which causes SUICIDE
Dr Philip Hickey
http://behaviorismandmentalhealth.com/2016/11/08/neuroleptic-drugs-akathisia-and-suicide-and-violence/
Dr Allen Frances 1983
https://pdfs.journals.lww.com/psychopharmacology/1983/08000/Suicide_Associated_with_Akathisia_and_Depot.6.pdf
Rxisk
https://rxisk.org/akathisia/
“..Significant symptoms of akathisia occur in:
around 20% of people on an antidepressant
at least 50% of people on low doses of an antipsychotic
up to 80% or more people on higher doses of an antipsychotic
healthy volunteers as well as “patients”..”
Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akathisia
“…Neuro-psychologist Dennis Staker had drug-induced akathisia for two days. His description of his experience was this: “It was the worst feeling I have ever had in my entire life…”
Hi Reed, thanks for the well written and very scary article. Normal Grief becomes Major Depressive Disorder, Potentially Bipolar and almost Schizophrenia.
I took the old tricylics and they made no difference to my mood, and it looks like the SSRI s don’t work for most people either.
I’ve experienced melancholoy, but I don’t think I have ever been clinically depressed, and I don’t know what I would do if I was.
As far as I can see the answer is within the Buddhist Approach, but this might be found under different headings. The Buddhist Approach wouldn’t at all stop me being “ambitious”, I’d have no problem following the two philosophies. But the Buddhist Approach does work!
Most so called madness in industrial societies wouldn’t be considered to be madness in the normal way, unless people wanted to take advantage. There’s also the need for social workers and other professionals to feed off
sick people for their own survival.
My own recovery from “Chronic Schizophrenia” was very quick once I got off drugs suitable for Chronic Schizophrenia and learnt to deal with my Withdrawal High Anxiety.
The Irish family might be one of the better type of families to become ‘sick’ in!
“..Whatever the exact cause or causes, it has also been suggested that the current Mental Health System is NOT adequately addressing the problem…”
https://www.bmj.com/content/358/bmj.j3697/rr-4
“…Antidepressants Increase The Risk of Suicide, Violence and Homicide At All Ages
The FDA admitted in 2007 that SSRIs can cause madness at all ages and that the drugs are very dangerous; otherwise daily monitoring wouldn’t be needed: “Families and caregivers of patients should be advised to look for the emergence of such symptoms on a day-to-day basis, since changes may be abrupt” … “All patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases. The following symptoms, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, and mania, have been reported in adult and pediatric patients being treated with antidepressants” (1).
Such daily monitoring is, however, a fake fix. People cannot be monitored every minute and many have committed SSRI-induced suicide or homicide within a few hours after everyone thought they were perfectly okay.
As the published trial literature related to suicidality and aggression on antidepressants is unreliable, we looked at 64,381 pages of clinical study reports (70 trials) we got from the European Medicines Agency. We showed for the first time that SSRIs in comparison with placebo increase aggression in children and adolescents, odds ratio 2.79 (95% CI 1.62 to 4.81) (2). This is an important finding considering the many school shootings where the killers were on SSRIs.
In a systematic review of placebo-controlled trials in adult healthy volunteers, we showed that antidepressants double the occurrence of events that the FDA has defined as possible precursors to suicide and violence, odds ratio 1.85 (95% CI 1.11 to 3.08)(3). The number needed to treat to harm one healthy adult person was only 16 (95% CI 8 to 100).
Based on the clinical study reports, we showed that adverse effects that increase the risk of suicide and violence were 4-5 times more common with duloxetine than with placebo in trials in middle-aged women with stress urinary incontinence (4). There were also more women on duloxetine who experienced a core or potential psychotic event, relative risk RR 2.25 (95% CI 1.06 to 4.81). The number needed to harm was only seven. It would have been quite impossible to demonstrate how dangerous duloxetine is, if we had only had access to published research. In accordance with our findings, the FDA has previously announced that women who were treated with duloxetine for incontinence in the open-label extension phase of the clinical studies had 2.6 times more suicide attempts than other women of the same age (5).
Looking at precursor events to suicide and violence is just like looking at prognostic factors for heart disease. We say that increased cholesterol, smoking and inactivity increase the risk of heart attacks and heart deaths and therefore recommend people to do something about it. Psychiatric leaders, however, routinely try to get away with untenable arguments. Many say, for example, that antidepressants can be given safely to children arguing that there were no more suicides in the trials, only more suicidal events, as if there was no relation between the two, although we all know that a suicide starts with suicidal thoughts, followed by preparations and one or more attempts. The same can be said about homicide. It can no longer be doubted that antidepressants are dangerous and can cause suicide and homicide at any age (5-7). It is absurd to use drugs for depression that increase the risk of suicide and homicide when we know that cognitive behavioural therapy can halve the risk of suicide in patients who have been admitted after a suicide attempt (8) and when psychotherapy does not increase the risk of murder…”
markps2,
Its extremely difficult to come off them!
“….The second-generation story: Prozac and other second-generation antidepressants are understood to provide, at best, a marginal benefit over placebo in the short term. In government-funded studies, the second-generation antipsychotics were not found to be any more effective than the first generation…”
I was placed 1st Generation Trí cyclic antidepressants many years ago and they made no difference whatsoever to my mood:- Going on them, being on them, and coming off them made no difference whatsoever to my mood!
In the tragic case below I notice the biomedical details are vague:-
BBC News – Ceara Thacker death: Mental health services ‘failed student’
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-merseyside-49773263
BBC News – Student told University about Suicidal Thoughts
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-merseyside-49730932
WHAT ABOUT: 11. LICENCE TO KILL
The person consumes potentially lethal medication leaves the Psychiatric Unit and ends up DEAD – medically everyone knows the medication is potentially lethal BUT nothing more is said.
The Circumstances and Details are completely confused, BUT that’s OK.
In Civilian Life if a DEAD Body is Discovered It’s NORMAL To Investigate!
(Lethal in Psychiatry can = Intoxicating)
Eckhart Tolle the author of “The Power of Now” has stated (I believe) that a person can find “what he found” – purely from the information in his book. The book itself is cheap but the information in his book can be found also, for free (If necessary) on the internet. I’ve studied his book and what’s in it works.
It’s NOT the “Schizophrenics” that are killing people; its “normal people” under the influence of potentially harmful prescribed drugs.
Michael,
For me, (even beyond compassion) the reality of the situation is that the MH System is “Ineffective” ; and there are other very good ways of overcoming distress most of the time (even today) within the community.
Somebody told me that a lot of the natural healers were targeted as “witches”, and that we have lost a lot of natural healing as a result.
Just look at the ingredients in the food in the Supermarket!
Bamboozled
A doctor friend of mine told me he had a patient diagnosed with Bipolar and that this person wanted to stop taking their medication and that their family supported them in this.
My doctor friend told me that the person started a drug taper but it wasn’t successful and the person became unstable, and even their family wanted them back on the Drugs. I told him that a successful Neuroleptic Drug taper can be a rocky ride and take time.
NO 5. BAMBOOZLING
Thank you for this one Dr Levine. Dr Peter Breggin also has a description for this.
It’s very easy to get fooled by the Diagnosis, the Staff, and the System; but most of all by the Drugs. When I tried to come off these drugs I started to go MAD. So I reasonably came to believe in the Severe Diagnosis.
But I was happy to cut the drugs right down. They were changed along the way, and eventually I noticed that if I didn’t take them I slept less but I felt no worse.
When I checked the drugs out I found they had no ‘psychiatric’ effect at the level I was taking them. I knew then that the Problem had been the very convincing medically created drug dependency.
PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS CAUSE MENTAL ILLNESS AND I CAN SUBSTANTIATE THIS FROM MY OWN RECORDS:-
I think EVERYBODY knows somebody who was more or less okay, until they started taking psychiatric drugs (usually antidepressants), and went from there to being diagnosed more seriously; eventually becoming long term disabled and pathetically Psychiatric.
I “declined” “medication” on my introduction to Psychiatry in 1980. But when I was given permission to come off ALL “medication” in 1983, I quickly ended up in hospital and back on “medication”again.
In early 1984 I was back in hospital again following a suicide attempt.
Later on in 1984 I was suicidal and back in hospital again following an introduction of an alternative “medication”. The Prognosis on the Discharge Summary of this Hospitalisation stated that I would be back in hospital again before long. But I wasn’t.
THE PSYCHIATRIC DRUGS WERE THE PROBLEM
After 1984 I went on weaker oral “medication” and successfully tapered. Coming off strong “medication” meant that I became fit for work, and I returned to gainful employment.
I did develop a problematic HIGH ANXIETY condition as a result of coming off strong neuroleptics. But I was able to recognise the “CATASTROPHISATION” attached to the condition, and to build effective protection around this.
Many years later I wrote to the Registrar who had typed up the Discharge Summary to my last Hospitalization, and he wrote back: that they had been wrong, that I had been misdiagnosed, and that I could have been ‘condemned to disaster’.
The Diagnosis had been SCHIZOPHRENIA ; CHRONIC SCHIZOPHRENIA; ‘SCHIZOAFFECTIVE DISORDER’
That’s what they do say!
Below is my own Experience of Long Acting Injections + Akathisia + Genuine Recovery + Medical Uselessness
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
There’s 2 million Americans in Jail, and 4.5 million Americans on Serious Mental Health Disability; and the
the American Non Mental Health System is also privately managed.
“…. (There are no anti-pediatrics, dermatology or orthopedics movements.) ..” I think one of these might develop some time soon.
“…The burden of mental illness has dramatically increased over the past 35 years, such that “neuropsychiatric disorders are now the leading cause of disability in the United States.” ..”
But once the drugs used to treat the disability are safely removed with some humane support, theres NO more disability! Its like MAGIC!
Thank You Leah, for the work you’ve put into this document. The sunny video promotion with the gay colours is very very smooth.
I personally identify with Akathisia.
Okay
Hi Bob,
Thanks for the great blog.
If the objective isn’t to exterminate at least half of the population; to mechanise all production and manufacturing; and to just have good-looking and obedient people serving the rich :- then it might be very possible to completely reform the Mental Health System.
I think we’d have to move on though, and have some type of non judgemental reconciliation procedure. And then to live in peace.
Dr Jill,
Yoga and support groups, what’s all that about?
Dr Rufus May
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufus_May
Advises distressed “schizophrenics” to go out for a walk!
A friend of mine that attends a “support group” said that if you gave a psychologist £50 or £100 and he told you to go home and iron your shirt you’d feel taken advantage off ( – but this is what works).
I came off LAI drugs suitable for “schizophrenia” with straight forward CBT/Buddhist Mindfullness Practice.
If I calculate my 4 grandparents age span years ago in Ireland, on average they lived to their mid eighties with little medical help.
Its sounds like the victims are being held to account. I would imagine the “experience” of pain to be much worse after professional opiod misuse.
Hi Rachel,
“Dry Drunk” is an AA expression not a medical expression, and the treatment for “dry drunkness” is not medication, its adherence to a “Spiritual” way of life.
Hi Rachel,
A person can be seriously browned off, without going out and killing lots of people.
Practically all the shooters are on psychiatric drugs.
Men’s amygdalas are different to women’s and this is why men are more geared up towards taking “action”. This is why men on psychiatric drugs and suffering from the ill effects of these drugs are more likely to commit suicide than women.
Young men again are more likely than older men to “act” as young men are geared up differently, and this is why only younger men can do certain types jobs.
Paxil Boosts Estrogen, May Promote Breast Cancer Growth – would not surprise me at all!
Paxil is not even an antidepressant!
Thanks Jane for relating your experience, and the very helpful “tips”.
US healthcare is literally killing people:-
https://www.ft.com/content/05f7fa82-a315-11e9-a282-2df48f366f7d
“…The US system costs more than twice as much, per person, as the universal coverage provided by the UK’s NHS. Even the government-funded part of the US system costs more per capita than the NHS…
..Why so expensive? It’s because US doctors prescribe more treatments, and those treatments cost much more than they do elsewhere….
…American hospitals and drug companies have enormous leeway to raise prices — insurers have limited bargaining power, and uninsured patients even less…”
(Professor Angus Deaton + Economist Anne Case)
I’m inclined to agree. Any type of control in “Mental Health” is open to exploitation and abuse.
When I engaged in my own psychotherapy I was at least an equal member, and the trainee counsellors were not interested in diagnosis.
I had suffered from a type of anxiety that I had never experienced before – when I withdrew from “medication” “suitable” for “schizophrenia”. My anxiety levels are now very much reduced.
I recovered through my own direction, with good “psychotherapeutic” support.
oldhead
A “Dry Drunk” is an Alcoholic that doesn’t drink but isn’t getting help for their “mental illness”.
“Dry Drunks” are often monsters.
Of all the group’s I believe the Alcohol Abusers are proven to be by far the most “dangerous”. Jails are not full of “scizophrenic” people that have committed seriously violent acts but full of Alcohol Abusers that have committed these acts.
Genetically Donald Trump might be tied in with Alcoholism, and he could even be the worst type of Alcoholic – the Untreated or Dry Drunk Type (of Alcoholic).
…..though most quietly commit suicide.
I’m very sorry about this, but most of the people that Act Out in Public are “normal people” prescribed “antidepressants” for things like work related stress.
https://www.madinamerica.com/2019/09/response-criticism-recent-article-antidepressant-suicide-risk/
In Psychiatry Suicide and Homicide are closely linked.
https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=osu.32436011236542;view=1up;seq=53.
These dead end Severe Mental Illnesses are only dead end illnesses in Psychiatry. With a non
Psychiatric approach the long term sickness doesn’t exist.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rufus_May
The technical descriptions seem to me, to “medicalise” the situation.
If a person has a “breakdown” they might benefit from the support of genuine people to get back together again. I think this might be why Soteria is successful.
According to Dr RD Laing, he once took a “chronic schizophrenic” teenager into his family and treated him normally and the “chronic schizophrenic” teenager made full recovery.
The hospital wards are about the promotion of sickness and remaining sick. The rules are likely to be wide open to exploitation and game playing.
Prescripticide
In the Australian case mentioned above, as in most similar cases which carry All the Hallmarks of Akathisia Induced Violence, the information on “medication” is very vague.
The Hallmarks of Akathisia Induced Violence are
1. The Behaviour is Extreme
2. The Behaviour is Out of Character
3. The Behaviour follows the Starting, Stopping or Changing of Psychiatric Medication.
According to my calculations 7.4 million divided by 200, equals 37,000 people in England, attempting suicide as a direct result of taking antidepressants; with 1 in every 20 of these estimated to result in successful suicides, equalling 1,850 deaths, as a direct result of taking antidepressants. This would have to be a national health crisis.
Hi Dr Eric,
I looked at you on Ted and it doesn’t surprise me that you can publish your results. You communicate very well and you look exactly like the kind of person another person could confide in.
THE ROLL OF THE DICE
“…The most dramatic example is suicide. Having no childhood traumas gives a 1% risk of attempting suicide by middle age. One trauma doubles the risk, two traumas doubles it again, on and on until the people with 7 or more traumas are 36 times more likely to attempt suicide than those who have none.17 Thirty-six times more likely!…”
I attempted suicide twice in my 20s in a neuroleptic drug induced state of Acute Akathisia, but I never attempted suicide before starting or since discontinuing the “offending medication”. And I recovered as a result of withdrawing from the drugs. So what category might I be in?
A “nightmare event” occurred to me 6 years ago in my early 50s when I was given a diagnosis of ocular malignant melanoma. I was told that the cancer might have already spread and that I might die; that I might lose my left eye due to treatment; or that considerable vision in my left eye might be lost. I knew at the time that if I started thinking in the state I was in, that I would “go mad”. I was able to hold off my thinking until I levelled off. When I levelled off , I wasn’t happy, but I wasn’t in danger of “going mad” and I knew I could make responsible decisions. Luckily for me the cancer outcome has so far been successful, and without too much damage.
I used the same tactic (of “avoiding my head”) when I was withdrawing from the “offending medication” that had caused my Acute Akathisia in my 20s, as I was going into “Nightmare Mode” regularly at the time.
Last year I visited the Registrar of my last Acute Akathisia hospitalization (34 years previously) (now an eminent Psychiatrist) and he stated in a well written letter that he was confident that I had never suffered from “Schizophrenia” to begin with.
But if I hadn’t withdrawn successfully from the “offending drugs” (through my “dealing with waking nightmare” technique), I wonder if any Psychiatrist would have been in a position to diagnose me as “non Schizophrenic”.
“…This has not helped his popularity with his colleagues, now well into negative territory…”
Does this mean you don’t get invited to the free pharmaceutical pizza outings?
AKATHISIA CAN CAUSE SUICIDE + HOMICIDE
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akathisia
The LINK below clearly demonstrates the professional lengths taken: to hide AKATHISIA
https://www.madintheuk.com/2018/08/a-disorder-for-everyone/#comment-49
Mad Pride in Mexico is Great News!
.
WHEN THE “VIOLENCE” IS NOT MENTAL HEALTH
The LINKS below concern a case of “Extreme Violence” which I Suspect could have been triggered by unrecorded/unreported (Depot type) “medication”, rather than “Severe Mental Illness”.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2007/jul/10/australia.mainsection
http://www.xenu-directory.net/topics/20070709-australia-tragedy.html
“…the treating psychiatrist appears to have been of the view that her psychotic symptoms were the result of medication she had been prescribed…”
In the case above the “person” had previously been exposed to Depot injection type “medication” and had reacted “Extremely” to it.
I Suspect possible “foul play”: in reference to an example from my own case in Ireland in April 1984 when through the intervention of a Charge Nurse, I was admitted in a state of Acute Akathisia to Galway Psychiatric Unit, though Staff had been previously instructed not to admit me.
48 hours later I discharged myself, never to experience Mental Health hospitalization (or Disability), again.
A few days previous to this hospitalization I had been injected with twice the introductory dose of Depixol Depot “medication” and released into the community (even though I had warned the junior doctor of the dangers).
Had I NOT been admitted at Galway and had the administration of the first time Depixol Injection (by the junior doctor) NOT been recorded I could easily have ended up DEAD with nobody the wiser. (I had previously experienced 2 suicide attempts at Galway in the same state of Acute Akathisia).
In Autumn of 1983 I had laid my (drug) Disability at the door of my Consultant Psychiatrist who had consistently held me responsible for it, and who had expressed this Disabilty as being my main (or only) Mental Health problem.
Notice that when patients do DIE after contact with the Psychiatric Services the investigations tend to be MILD.
“..Along his journey, Dan has realized his attempts were likely caused by the medications he had been prescribed ..”
I never attempted suicide before taking strong psychiatric drugs, and I have never attempted suicide since coming off strong psychiatric drugs.
Identification of ADR + Fluphenazine in 1984
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/16313058_Suicide_Associated_with_Akathisia_and_Depot_Fluphenazine_Treatment
Adverse Drug Reaction Warning Request Letter sent to Galway Nov. 8 1986
ADR Warning Request ltr Pg 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAZlVTbHdBRDFFSHc/view?usp=drivesdk
ADR Warning Request ltr Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAZ0otNjFyN0NJajA/view?usp=drivesdk
ADR Warning Request Ltr Pg 3
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAcExwMzhEMVRzdm8/view?usp=drivesdk
November 24 1986 Response with NO ADR Warning
Nov 24 1986 Irish Record Summary Pg 1
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBATlNoNTlpYy11X28/view?usp=drivesdk
Nov 24 1986 Irish Record Summary Pg 2
https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B0zhbh8V4MBAMmlqS18xQVZlcms/view?usp=drivesdk
My Ex Psychiatrist promoting the offending drugs in 1998
https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/ps.49.10.1361-b
€ 9.6 million from Bristol Myers Squibb http://www.nuigalway.ie/our-research/partners/
BBC News – Stress in pregnancy ‘makes child personality disorder more likely’
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-49593620
A stressed parent can pass stress onto their child and most parents do at some level or another.
But it’s the consumption of psychotropic drugs during pregnancy that causes brain damage to children in the womb.
It’s Nice to see you back Dr Niall,
A lot of people say it’s life that causes “depression”.
I have a friend who experienced “Mental Unwellness” throughout his life. In his 50s he retrained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and practices this professionally now.
According to him ‘it’s not possible to be depressed without thinking depressed thoughts’. But over the years I have known him he appears happier and happier.
I overcame my own compulsive anxiety (and melancholy) through Practical Psychotherapy, after withdrawing in the 1980s, from (LAI) drugs suitable for “Schizophrenia”.
I can easily describe the Psychotherapy Process that worked for me. Most Psychologists are probably trained a long these lines.
(In the UK 10 times more 2nd generation Afro Caribbean men “get” “Schizophrenia” than do Indigeneous White Men. In my opinion the medical Treatment and Approach is causing this “Schizophrenia”).