Antidepressants Quote by Antonella Gambotto-Burke
“Suicide rates have not slumped under the onslaught of antidepressants, mood-stabilizers, anxiolytic and anti-psychotic drugs; the jump in suicide rates suggests that the opposite is true. In some cases, suicide risk skyrockets once treatment begins (the patient may feel not only penalized for a justifiable reaction, but permanently stigmatized as malfunctioning). Studies show that self-loathing sharply decreases only in the course of cognitive-behavioral treatment.”
About This Quote
Antidepressants and similar drugs may not reduce suicide; sometimes they increase risk, especially early in treatment.
In simple terms: Medication can sometimes worsen suicidal thoughts initially.
Monitor patients closely when starting treatment.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- clinical practice
- patient counseling
- public health policy
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can clinicians better support patients early in treatment?
- What non‑pharmacological interventions help?
Medication alone isn’t enough; therapy is essential.