In my experience the vast majority of parents do not want medication treatment for their children, but they aren’t given information or access to alternatives. Many feel pressured by medical providers or school professionals to medicate their children, or risk being told they are a bad parent. I agree with you that we need more practitioners who understand how to identify and address root issues of challenges, and not just hand out prescriptions.
I’m not sure if you are speaking to me directly, or just in general. I do not prescribe medications to children. I am a psychologist who treats many children who have been prescribed medications by other providers. I hear your concerns about the risks for children, and I see them everyday. There is room for many differing opinions on these topics. Thank you for sharing yours.
Thanks for your comment! There are many ways to taper, and the “right” way is what is most comfortable and effective for the individual child/adult. Some can tolerate a faster taper, and some need a slower taper. There are many things to take into account, as I discussed in the article. One thing to note for children is that they often have not been on these medications for the length of time many adults have been, which tends to allow for a faster taper with fewer withdrawal symptoms. The key is that we are aware of individual differences, and collaborate with children and parents to implement a plan that works for them.
I agree that the duration of treatment is an important factor to consider as well. In part two of this series this will be discussed more specifically.
I agree that the needs of elderly people related to psychiatric drugs often go unnoticed and unaddressed. We need professionals who understand these issues in children and the elderly!
Thank you for your supportive comments. I agree that more professionals need to understand these issues so they can support children and families who have gone down the medication path and want or need to get off of it.
I’m well acquainted with this blog, as well as the people you mention. I respect your opinion and appreciate you sharing it.
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In my experience the vast majority of parents do not want medication treatment for their children, but they aren’t given information or access to alternatives. Many feel pressured by medical providers or school professionals to medicate their children, or risk being told they are a bad parent. I agree with you that we need more practitioners who understand how to identify and address root issues of challenges, and not just hand out prescriptions.
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I hear your concerns!
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I’m not sure if you are speaking to me directly, or just in general. I do not prescribe medications to children. I am a psychologist who treats many children who have been prescribed medications by other providers. I hear your concerns about the risks for children, and I see them everyday. There is room for many differing opinions on these topics. Thank you for sharing yours.
Report comment
Thanks for your comment! There are many ways to taper, and the “right” way is what is most comfortable and effective for the individual child/adult. Some can tolerate a faster taper, and some need a slower taper. There are many things to take into account, as I discussed in the article. One thing to note for children is that they often have not been on these medications for the length of time many adults have been, which tends to allow for a faster taper with fewer withdrawal symptoms. The key is that we are aware of individual differences, and collaborate with children and parents to implement a plan that works for them.
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Very true! The ignorance of professionals around these issues is unacceptable.
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I agree that the duration of treatment is an important factor to consider as well. In part two of this series this will be discussed more specifically.
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I agree that the needs of elderly people related to psychiatric drugs often go unnoticed and unaddressed. We need professionals who understand these issues in children and the elderly!
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Thank you for your supportive comments. I agree that more professionals need to understand these issues so they can support children and families who have gone down the medication path and want or need to get off of it.
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What an interesting response for you to have to this podcast episode.
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Thank you for sharing your experience! This is what my colleagues and I are seeing happen for many children during this time. Best wishes to you all!
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