June 25th 2024.
Did you know that more than 10% of adults in the UK are currently taking antidepressants for depression? It's a startling statistic that sheds light on the prevalence of mental health issues in our society. The good news is, a recent study has uncovered some promising findings about the use of these medications.
According to the study, which was led by the universities of Southampton, Liverpool, and Hull York Medical School, nearly half of long-term antidepressant users can successfully stop taking the medication with the support of their GP and access to internet or telephone helplines alone. This means that many individuals who are well and not at risk of relapse can come off the drugs with the guidance of their doctors.
The researchers also found that those who had access to online support and psychologists by phone reported lower rates of depression, fewer withdrawal symptoms, and better mental wellbeing. This is important because, as NHS figures show, more than half of adults in the UK who are taking antidepressants have been on them for longer than two years.
Lead author Professor Tony Kendrick, from the University of Southampton, emphasized the significance of these findings. He stated that by providing patients with the right support, we can potentially eliminate the risk of serious side effects and reduce the burden on primary healthcare while people taper off antidepressants.
The study, which was published in the journal JAMA Network Open, involved 330 adults who had been taking antidepressants for a first episode of depression or a recurrence of the illness for over a year. Co-author Una Macleod, professor of primary care medicine at Hull York Medical School, pointed out that many patients are taking these medications for longer than necessary. She suggested establishing a national helpline, both by phone and online, to help individuals who are ready to come off antidepressants.
In England, approximately 1 in 6 adults have experienced a common mental disorder like depression or anxiety in the past week. However, the waiting times for NHS talking therapy can vary significantly depending on the region, with some areas having wait times of up to 79 days. In 2022-23, NHS England spent a staggering £16 billion on mental health services. Shockingly, around 20% of children aged 7 to 16 had a probable mental health condition in 2023, up from 12% in 2017. These statistics were cited from the UK Parliament as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues.
The study mentioned above is just one part of a larger research program called Reduce, which has been ongoing for seven years. It aims to investigate the long-term effects of withdrawing from antidepressants. Co-author Professor Mark Gabbay, from the University of Liverpool, highlighted the significance of the study's findings. He explained that stopping inappropriate long-term antidepressant treatment is possible without intense face-to-face therapy sessions, as recommended by current guidelines. He also noted the potential risks of increasing side effects as individuals age.
Based on the findings, the researchers are advocating for active family practitioner reviews to be promoted for antidepressant discontinuation. It's a step towards better management of mental health and reducing the reliance on medication for extended periods.
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