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Medicine Quote by Robert Whitaker

“With psychiatric medications, you solve one problem for a period of time, but the next thing you know you end up with two problems. The treatment turns a period of crisis into a chronic mental illness. - Amy Upham” quote by Robert Whitaker
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““With psychiatric medications, you solve one problem for a period of time, but the next thing you know you end up with two problems. The treatment turns a period of crisis into a chronic mental illness. - Amy Upham””

Robert Whitaker

About This Quote

Source Book: Anatomy of an Epidemic, Robert Whitaker, 2010

Critiques psychiatric drugs for creating chronic issues, turning acute crises into long‑term illness.

In simple terms: Drugs can cause new problems.

Key Takeaway

Beware medication side effects.

Themes

medicine psychology ethics

Mood

cautious critical

Type

medical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • clinical practice
  • patient counseling
  • policy making
  • research
  • public health

Key Concepts

pharmacology dependency patient autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to balance short‑term relief vs long‑term risk?
  • What alternatives exist to medication?
A Different Perspective

Not all patients experience worsening.

2.9 out of 5 (10 ratings)

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