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I'm not sure that the abbreviated sentiment that medication has little more effect than a placebo is useful in the realm of mental disorders. Depression/anxiet
by EricDeb 14y ago
I'm not sure that the abbreviated sentiment that medication has little more effect than a placebo is useful in the realm of mental disorders. Depression/anxiety/ocd are very complex because they deal with the brain/mind, which is poorly understood. To suggest that antidepressants only have a placebo effect despite working in animal models of depression, severe depression, certain depressive subtypes, and less severe conditions in rats and monkeys is not helpful for many sufferers (like the author) who might otherwise benefit.
- ryanmolden 14y agoWho cares if something works through the placebo effect, as long as it works. I can't be bothered to look it up at the moment (on my mobile) but I do believe he is correct in that published studies in well regarded medical journals have purported to show just that (effect == placebo), but as I said, from the perspective of the person being treated, does it matter? I agree if it prevents people from seeking help that is bout desirable, but it need not.
- niels_olson 14y agoYes, actually, it does matter. Side effects of antidepressants include the period of getting just enough energy to kill yourself, and the risk of serotonin syndrome, especially when seeing multiple doctors for multiple issues, who might start SSRIs in near succession. The list goes on for a ways.
- drumdance 14y agoFine, weigh the risks. But don't dismiss it out of hand. I've used SSRIs off an on for years and can honestly say my life is much, much better for having done so.
- d0mine 14y agoThe stronger side-effects the more effective placebos. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfRVCaA5o18 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yfRVCaA5o18
- ceol 14y agoThe consensus was that it works in severe cases of depression, but milder ones show little benefit.