Should I Take Antidepressants?
I’ve been considering asking my doctor for antidepressants, but I’ve heard that they are no better than placebos. What do you think? Do antidepressants work, or should I opt for the sugar pill? – BD …
diagnosis
Why Am I So Irritable In The Winter?
Q: Is there anything that can be done for seasonal depression? The long months of overcast skies and reduced sunlight never had any noticeable effect on me in my youth, but as I approach middle age, I find I’m irritable, fractious, melancholy and generally about as pleasant as a plowed-up snake from about mid November until at least mid May. Last year was the worst ever. Since I plan to live through at least another 45 winters or so, it would sure be nice to know if there’s anything I can do about this. – Sean …
Can children have bipolar disorder?
Q: Can children have bipolar disorder? If so, how are they diagnosed? –Lynn …
Does DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) Cure Borderline Personality Disorder?
Q: While we’re bumping up awareness for borderline personality disorder (BPD), perhaps you could help us understand dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). I’ve heard that it’s the only effective therapy for BPD, but I don’t know much about it. I’m often skeptical of magic bullets, and I’m wondering what your take is on this. Thanks! -Ariel P. …
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Is Borderline Personality Disorder a Real Condition?
Q: What’s your take on Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)? I ask because the newly committed H.R. 1005 would create a “BPD Awareness Month” (May, I believe) during which, apparently, the public would be educated about BPD by the federal government in a manner deemed fitting by Congress. As an acute propagandophobic, I’m already starting to break out in hives. Some straight talk from the IS could be just what the doctor ordered. – Fuzzy …
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Do Antidepressants Really Work?
Q: What do you think about antidepressants? Should I take them? – MK …
Do Delusions Usually Involve Aliens and Government Agents?
Q: After reading your answer to Michael regarding drug-induced insanity, I began to wonder why almost all descriptions of paranoid delusions seem to involve secret electronic surveillance by government agencies or aliens. Are these themes really so common among people suffering from paranoia, or are they just convenient examples used by writers on the subject? If they are ubiquitous, how would you explain so many people having the same delusion? If not, what other delusions are there? What do people in other cultures delude about? – Mulder …
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Is Depression Related to Social Anxiety?
Q: How does depression work? Is it often connected with social anxiety? What can be done about it (other than prescription drugs)? – Anonymous …