Antidepressant reduction

Mental Health Nursing,  Jul 2006  

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A pilot study in Paisley treating patients with depression has reduced the number of antidepressants being prescribed.

Under the 'Doing Well' scheme, nurses and occupational therapists come into the practice, see the patient within a week, and advise them to try alternative self-help techniques such as exercise and a better diet.

Scotland's use of antidepressants has sharply risen in the past 10 years, along with a drugs bill 40 per cent higher than England, given that patients are often prescribed antidepressants due to long waiting times for psychological help.

The doctors involved in the project say patients are receiving better care and there is now growing concern that anti-depressants may not be the best form of treatment.

Copyright Community Psychiatric Nurses Association Jul 2006
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