Why are people reluctant to take antidepressants?

Why are people reluctant to take antidepressants?

After so many years in private practice, I am still surprised by how often I have to convince a patient to take an antidepressant. After all, antidepressants can save lives! Here is a list of why people are sceptical and even scared of antidepressants: • Stigma: The...
Sleeping pills: the good, the bad, and the ugly

Sleeping pills: the good, the bad, and the ugly

Sleeping pills: the good, the bad, and the ugly Sleeping pills, also known as hypnotics or sedatives, are medications used to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. Insomnia often accompanies depression. It is important to help patients sleep well in order to...
Why do people self-harm?

Why do people self-harm?

Self-harm is a common problem. There are many ways in which people can hurt themselves, including self-destructive behaviours such as lying, stealing, or watching pornography. Healthcare providers are often faced with teenagers or adults who self-harmed, and what the...
Medication and Surgery for Weight Loss

Medication and Surgery for Weight Loss

Patients often ask for a prescription to help them loose weight. Psychiatric medications also are often to blame for weight gain. I have found this advice from the NHS’ (UK) website. There are other medications available for weight loss, but I agree with the NHS that...
8 Signs a Therapist Is a Bad Fit for You

8 Signs a Therapist Is a Bad Fit for You

CREDITSPsychCentralBy Marissa Moore If you’re wondering whether your therapist is working for you, you can check out these tips to see if they’re the right fit. Solid therapists practice with their clients’ best interests in mind. If you’re in therapy, you might...
What you need to know about PMBs

What you need to know about PMBs

Please read this short article if you have a medical aid. According to Law, all medical aids MUST pay for certain benefits for specific conditions. This applies to medical conditions as well as psychiatric conditions. I have (almost) never seen a patient who is 100%...