David Healy is a former secretary of the British Association for Psychopharmacology whose work delves deeply into the history and societal impact of psychopharmacology. He examines how the field has evolved and influenced perceptions of mental health. His writings are characterized by a critical perspective on established practices, uncovering the complex relationships between medicine, industry, and society.
The book provides a comprehensive overview of psychiatric drugs, presenting evidence-based information in a user-friendly format ideal for quick reference in clinical environments. It aims to enhance understanding and facilitate informed decision-making regarding the use of these medications.
The decline in life expectancy in the West since 2015 parallels a deteriorating healthcare environment, highlighting a critical crisis. This situation is driven by the same underlying factors that contribute to global climate change, suggesting a deep interconnection between public health and environmental issues. The book explores these urgent challenges, emphasizing the need for awareness and action in both healthcare and climate policy.
Children of the Cure tells the story of the only Medical Study that has two publications in the academic literature-telling precisely the opposite story-and how no one is bothered by this. Study 329 was a clinical study that began in 1994 giving a new antidepressant to teenagers. It has become the most famous clinical trial ever, leading to a fraud charge, a $3 billion fine, and a Black Box Warning. Despite now knowing that all trials of antidepressants done in children are negative, sales of these drugs to children and adolescents continue to increase dramatically. This book is written by three members of the team-David Healy, Joanna Le Noury and Julie Wood-who have been behind writing the study and creating the website that hosts a set of documents pharmaceutical companies never expected you would get to see.
Psychiatric Drugs Explained offers a wealth of evidence-based information on psychiatric drugs in an easy-to-use format that can be quickly referenced in the clinical setting. Written by internationally recognised author Dr David Healy, the book provides a comprehensive review of drug effects, action and side-effects. There is an emphasis on the lived experience of patients, providing the reader with a sense of what the adverse effects of drugs might feel like to those who use them. A reader-friendly approach and clear layout, with information organised by disorder, make this popular title accessible and useful not only to nursing staff, but to all members of the multidisciplinary team. Quick reference guide suitable for all members of the multidisciplinary team Helpful boxes on user issues make potential complications easy to spot Distinctive, reader-friendly style helps the reader understand the benefits and impacts of psychotropic drugs New topics include management of dependence disorders, stimulants and drugs for children, cognitive impairment and sleep disorders The only book with detailed coverage of the sexual side effects of psychiatric drugs and the abusive prescribing of prescription drugs
Presenting a comprehensive and forceful argument against the pharmaceuticalization of medicine, this book tackles problems in health care that are leading to a growing number of deaths and disabilities. It explains why these trends have basically ended the possibility of universal health care in the United States and elsewhere around the world.
The book explores the rise of American imperialism in the late 19th century, highlighting the influence of European powers like Great Britain and Germany on U.S. aspirations. It details the transformation of the United States into an emerging world power, particularly following its victory in the Spanish-American War. The narrative captures the excitement and ambition of Americans as they embraced colonialism, positioning themselves within the dynamic landscape of global empires during this pivotal era.
Exploring the evolving perceptions of illness, David Healy delves into the historical context of how societal views shape our understanding of health conditions. The book highlights the fluidity of these perceptions, suggesting that they can change significantly over time, influencing both individual experiences and broader medical practices. Through a thought-provoking narrative, Healy invites readers to reconsider the nature of illness and its implications in society.
The resurgence of shock therapy, particularly electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), is explored as a safe and effective treatment for severe mental illnesses, despite its negative portrayal in media. Authors Edward Shorter and David Healy delve into ECT's controversial history, challenging misconceptions through case studies, interviews, and archival research. They argue for its efficacy as a frontline therapy, particularly for patients unresponsive to medications, offering hope to those suffering from debilitating depression and suicidal ideation.
The Unhealthy Relationship Between the Pharmaceutical Industry and Depression
Examining the history and impact of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the book delves into their development, marketing, and associated controversies. Initially hailed as breakthroughs for depression, SSRIs like Prozac have raised concerns, particularly regarding adverse effects such as agitation and suicidal tendencies in patients. Drawing on personal experience and research, the author highlights the deeper issues within the pharmaceutical industry, questioning the safety and efficacy of these widely prescribed medications for mental health.
James G. Blaine was one of the leading national political figures of his day, and probably the most controversial. Intensely partisan, the dominant leader of the Republican Party, and a major shaper of national politics for more than a decade, Blaine is remembered chiefly for his role as architect of the post-Civil War GOP and his two periods as secretary of state. He also was the Republican presidential candidate in the notorious mud-slinging campaign of 1884. His foreign policy was marked by its activism, its focus on Latin America, and its attempt to increase U.S. influence there.