Moderate Concept Summary

ED 304: Ed Psych and Human Development

Author: Natalie Peck

Validated By: 

Disclosure: ChatGPT was used in the creation of this resource.

     Prescription drugs and therapy are both common treatment options for mental health conditions. Prescription drugs are typically used to address specific symptoms. They work by altering the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. Therapy is focused on addressing the underlying causes of a condition. This method works by helping individuals understand and change their thoughts and behaviors.

     In some cases, therapy and prescription drugs are used together for a comprehensive treatment approach. This can be particularly beneficial when symptoms are more severe or when there is a need for immediate symptom relief while simultaneously addressing the underlying thoughts and behaviors through therapy. For example, someone with depression may benefit from taking an antidepressant to alleviate symptoms while simultaneously engaging in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns and develop coping skills.

     Therapy and prescription drugs both require professional guidance to use. A physician or psychiatrist may prescribe medication, and a therapist or counselor will provide therapy. Both require ongoing care and management, and a professional can help assess if a treatment is working, whether it needs to be adjusted, or if a different treatment should be considered.

There are many positives to both methods; however, there are some drawbacks to both of these methods. 

Prescription drugs:

1. Side effects: Like any medication, prescription drugs used for mental health conditions can have side effects. These can range from mild symptoms like nausea or drowsiness to more severe effects that vary depending on the specific drug. Individuals need to be aware of potential side effects and discuss them with their healthcare provider. Some examples of this could be with Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Examples of SSRIs include Prozac (fluoxetine), Zoloft (sertraline), and Lexapro (escitalopram). Potential side effects of SSRIs may include nausea, headache, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, weight changes, and increased risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger individuals.

2. Dependency and withdrawal: Some prescription drugs used for mental health conditions can lead to dependency or withdrawal symptoms if not carefully managed. Abruptly stopping certain medications can result in uncomfortable or even dangerous withdrawal effects. Tapering off under medical supervision is usually recommended to minimize these risks. Some examples of this would be stimulant medications like Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) or Ritalin (methylphenidate) used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

3. Trial and error: Finding the right medication and dosage that works for an individual can involve a process of trial and error. It may take time to determine the most effective treatment, and adjustments might be necessary along the way. This can be frustrating for individuals seeking quick relief. Here’s an example using antipsychotic medications. Antipsychotic medications are used to manage symptoms of conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Due to variations in individual responses and potential side effects, finding the right antipsychotic often involves trying different medications within the class. Adjustments in dosage or switching between different antipsychotics may be necessary to achieve optimal symptom control and minimize side effects.

Therapy:

1. Time commitment: Engaging in therapy requires a significant commitment of time and effort. Regular sessions, which can range from weekly to monthly depending on the individual's needs, are necessary for therapy to be effective. This can be challenging for individuals with busy schedules or financial constraints.
   
   

2. Emotional intensity: Therapy often involves exploring and addressing deep-rooted emotions, traumas, or challenging experiences. This process can be emotionally intense and may initially worsen symptoms before improvements occur. Individuals need to be prepared for this potential temporary increase in distress. You can prepare by establishing a supportive network, practicing self-care, and being open and honest with your therapist.
   
   

3. Limited accessibility: Access to therapy can be limited by factors such as location, cost, and availability of qualified therapists. In some regions or for certain populations, finding a therapist who specializes in a specific approach or is culturally sensitive may be challenging.
   
   

     In summary, prescription drugs and therapy are different in their approach and focus, and they can be used together to help individuals manage mental health conditions. Both require professional guidance and ongoing care to be effective.

Quiz questions:

1. Which of the following best describes the main differences between prescription drugs and therapy as treatment options for mental health conditions?

   1. Prescription drugs alter the levels of certain chemicals in the brain while therapy focuses on addressing the underlying causes of a condition 
   2. Prescription drugs are typically used to address specific symptoms, while therapy is used to address general feelings of unhappiness
   3. Prescription drugs are typically administered by physicians while therapy is typically administered by counselors
   4. Prescription drugs are typically more expensive than therapy

2. Which of the following conditions have been shown to have similar efficacy rates when treated with prescription drugs and therapy?

   1. Schizophrenia
   2. Depression
   3. Bipolar Disorder
   4. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

3. Which of the following is a potential disadvantage of treating a mental health condition solely with prescription drugs?

   1. The individual may experience side effects from the medication
   2. The medication may not address the underlying causes of the condition
   3. The medication may not be covered by the individual's insurance
   4. All the above

References and further reading:

• American Psychological Association. (n.d.). How do I choose between medication and therapy? American Psychological Association. Retrieved January 14, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/medication-or-therapy
• Medication or therapy for depression? or both? Harvard Health. (2020, May 26). Retrieved January 14, 2023, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/medication-or-therapy-for-depression-or-both

Disclosure: ChatGPT3 was used in the creation of this resource.