Depression: Report reveals serious lack of psychological therapies in NHS
Anti-depressant drugs are being massively over-prescribed by doctors, according to a worrying new report commissioned by Norwich Union Healthcare (NUH).
It revealed that doctors are looking to drugs because other treatment, such as psychological therapies and social care are unavailable. Over 80% of GPs admitted to over-prescribing drugs such as Prozac to patients suffering from stress and depression.
Independent medical research specialists, Dr Foster, which conducted the research among 250 GPs in the UK, reported nearly three-quarters of GPs admitted to prescribing more anti-depressants now than they did five years ago. A quarter of GPs said more widespread availability of psychological therapies should be highlighted as a top NHS priority.
Jim Thomson, chief executive of charity Depression Alliance, said that prescribing drugs alone was not providing the best treatment for patients. "Anti-depressants are a valuable form of treatment for many people affected by depression, but these medicines work best in combination with other therapies that are largely unavailable in many areas, forcing GPs to prescribe in isolation of them. We want people to be aware of the many alternative types of treatment available, such as self-help and talking therapies, and we encourage them to look at all the options available to them to help combat their illness."
Other findings from the study revealed that a third of people say they either know someone who is, or are themselves suffering from, a mild or moderate mental health condition. A total of 17% of those questioned said they had sought help or advice for mild anxiety, stress or depression. The study found that men feared suffering from depression would affect their career and were more likely than women to keep quiet about it at work.
In light of the report, NUH has created an online information guide - Services for a Healthy Mind - to complement its personal health manager service, which is available to its medical insurance policyholders.
"By giving people the information they need they will be better placed to choose the most suitable treatment with their GP," said Dr Doug Wright, medical spokesperson for NUH.
