National Conference Encourages Mental Health Dialogue

 Posted on June 07,2013 in American Psychiatric Association

Chances are you know someone who suffers from mental illness. That someone may even be you. Yet, knowing about mental illness is not the same as understanding mental illness. An increasing awareness about mental health issues fuels a need for healthy dialogue and proper education. Mental illness impacts many – from government officials to day laborers – and the community continues to grow. Earlier this month, President Obama and Vice President Biden hosted a National Conference on Mental Health. The event, held at the White House, focused on increasing communication, understanding and awareness about mental health issues.

“We commend the Administration's efforts through this national dialogue to focus attention and resources on important mental health issues and the need to eliminate stigma and improve access to quality care for all individuals who need mental health services,” said Jeffrey Lieberman, M.D., President of the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

Mental Health Treatment Drug Concerns

Quality care is a top concern, especially with continual issues arising from defective drugs. While drug therapy is just one aspect of a comprehensive treatment plan, it is a major part of the process.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the 2009 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that more than 45 million adults suffer from mental illness. While not everyone is being treated, those who are must be careful about what medications to use.

Some common medication types for treating mental conditions include:

• Antidepressants
• Mood-stabilizers
• Antipsychotic drugs
• Anti-anxiety drugs

Antidepressants such as the Pfizer drug, Zoloft, have been linked to birth defects. Lawsuits abound for conditions created due to defective drugs. Although compensation may help with lifelong medical costs and create financial stability, the continued impact from defective drugs is far reaching. Increasing awareness about mental illness may pave the way for improved drug therapy and other treatment options.

If you or your children have suffered adverse side effects from medications used to treat mental illness, contact an experienced Northern Illinois Defective Drug Attorney to help you explore all legal options that are available for your situation.

Blog image citation: Sira Anamwong/freedigitalphotos.net