### A Critique of Psychiatric Drug Treatment `Author:` Joanna Moncrieff `Availability:` [[Suggestions]] > [!info] > ## Summary Ah, my mistake! You’re referring to *The Myth of the Chemical Cure: A Critique of Psychiatric Drug Treatment* (2008) by **Joanna Moncrieff**, not the later book by Joseph E. Davis. ### **Summary of *The Myth of the Chemical Cure* by Joanna Moncrieff** Moncrieff, a psychiatrist and critical scholar, argues that the idea of psychiatric drugs as "chemical cures" for mental illnesses (like [[Depression]], schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder) is a myth. Instead, she proposes that these drugs work by creating **altered mental states**—similar to how recreational drugs affect the brain—rather than correcting underlying biochemical imbalances. Key points: - **The "Disease-Centered" vs. "Drug-Centered" Model**: Psychiatry often assumes drugs reverse a disease process (e.g., SSRIs fixing a "serotonin deficiency"), but Moncrieff argues they simply induce psychoactive effects (e.g., emotional numbing or sedation). - **Lack of Evidence for Chemical Imbalances**: There is no consistent proof that mental illnesses are caused by neurotransmitter imbalances (e.g., low serotonin in depression). - **Historical & Political Influences**: The rise of psychopharmacology was driven by pharmaceutical marketing and a desire to medicalize mental suffering, not solid [[Science]]. - **Withdrawal & Dependence**: Psychiatric drugs can cause dependency and severe withdrawal, yet this is often minimized. ### **Connection to [[Johann Hari]]’s *[[Lost Connections]]*** Both books challenge the biochemical model of mental illness, particularly depression: - **Hari** focuses on social causes (loneliness, [[Trauma]], lack of [[Meaning]]) and critiques overreliance on antidepressants. - **Moncrieff** digs deeper into the science (or lack thereof) behind psychiatric drugs, arguing they don’t "fix" the brain but instead alter its functioning. While Hari emphasizes **social solutions**, Moncrieff’s work provides a **scientific and historical critique** of the pharmaceutical industry’s role in shaping psychiatric treatment. Together, they undermine the idea that mental distress is purely a brain malfunction requiring medication. ## Key Takeaways ## Quotes - ## Notes `Concepts:` `Knowledge Base:` [[Books index]]