Psychiatrists Urge People To Consult Their Doctor Before Stopping Antidepressants, UK

Main Category: Depression
Also Included In: Psychology / Psychiatry;  Mental Health
Article Date: 26 Feb 2008 - 8:00 PDT

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The Royal College of Psychiatrists has urged people taking antidepressants not to discontinue their medication without consulting a doctor.

NICE guidelines point to the efficacy of antidepressants as well as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) and interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for people with moderate to severe depression. Many studies have shown that a combination of medication and psychotherapy has been particularly effective.

Prof Sheila Hollins, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said "We are studying the recent findings from the Department of Psychology at the University of Hull carefully. The researchers claim to have obtained a full set of research data for the first time, and they should be commended for achieving this. But we must stress that anyone currently taking antidepressants should first contact their own doctor before considering stopping their medication, as is the case with any form of prescribed medication."

The Royal College of Psychiatrists has information available on depression, antidepressants, talking therapies, and exercise and mental health. These resources can be downloaded free from the College website here.

The Royal College of Psychiatrists is the professional and educational body for psychiatrists in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. The College promotes mental health which can be compromised by many factors, these include mental and physical illness, learning disabilities, personality disorder, lifestyle, and life experience.

Our core purpose is to:

- Set standards and promote excellence in mental health care
- Improve understanding through research and education
- Lead, represent, train and support psychiatrists
- Work with users, carers and their organisations

As well as running its membership examination (MRCPsych), and visiting and approving hospitals for training purposes, the College organises scientific and clinical conferences and lectures and continuing professional development activities. The College publishes books, reports and educational material for professionals and the general public.

Royal College of Psychiatrists

Click here to see Medical News Today's featured article on Antidepressants Only Benefit The Severely Depressed, Study.