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Docs Too Quick to Cry Depression

Study finds almost any negative emotion seems to prompt medication

By Greg Atwan, Newser User

Posted Apr 3, 2007 6:58 AM CDT

(Newser) – Shrinks are too quick to term patients clinically depressed, says a new study reported in the Washington Post. Researchers argue that a quarter of "acute grief reactions," the standard symptom of depression, may in fact constitute normal responses to stress; they blame the bloated psychopharmaceutical industry, in part, for the inaccurate triage.

"People are starting to think that any sort of negative emotion is unnatural, that they can take medication and feel better," says Allan Horwitz, one of the researchers. The line between routine sadness and depression is thin, but the researchers think patients should avail themselves of support groups and counseling before turning to medication.

Prescription Prozac may be a cause of overdiagnosis. (KRT Photos)

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Docs Too Quick to Cry Depression

Study finds almost any negative emotion seems to prompt medication

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Depression Causes Preemies

Depression is more dangerous before the baby is born, researchers say

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Landmark study sheds light on diabetes, depression, more

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Research shows brain produces serotonin as an immune response

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People who live near vegetation suffer fewer diseases

Shrinks Single Out Next PTSD: Bitterness

Over-the-top reactions to being thwarted may signal mental illness

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Docs Too Quick to Cry Depression

Study finds almost any negative emotion seems to prompt medication

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

medicine • health • depression • psychiatry • disease • patients • stress • mental illness • grief

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

[ By Comments ]

More Newser Stories

Depression Causes Preemies

Depression is more dangerous before the baby is born, researchers say

Genes Give Up Secrets of 7 Serious Diseases

Landmark study sheds light on diabetes, depression, more

Bacteria Battle Depression

Research shows brain produces serotonin as an immune response

Green Spaces Make You Healthier

People who live near vegetation suffer fewer diseases

Shrinks Single Out Next PTSD: Bitterness

Over-the-top reactions to being thwarted may signal mental illness

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

Tools

More News

What is Newser?