Spain is the country with the highest consumption of anxiolytics, hypnotics and sedatives in the world.
In many Western countries, such as Spain, the prescription of drugs to treat mental health problems has increased dramatically, with questionable results. In countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Iceland and Canada, the prescription of antidepressants has doubled in recent years. Surprisingly, this increase in prescribing has been accompanied by an increase in disability claims for mental health problems. This is exactly the opposite of what would be expected if the drugs were to fulfill their intended purpose. In Spain, the excessive use of psychotropic drugs is just as worrying.
In Spain, the overuse of psychotropic drugs is equally worrying.
- Forty-five percent of public employees, 2.7 million people, consume psychotropic drugs (anxiolytics, antidepressants and sleeping pills, among others) on a daily basis in Spain.[i]
- In 2021, the sale of antidepressants and anxiolytics grew by 6% and 4% respectively.
- The latest report of the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) showed in 2020 that Spain led the world in licit consumption of anxiolytics, hypnotics and sedatives
- In 2020 it increased by 4.5% and exceeded 91 daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants.
- 27% of drivers and 32% of deceased pedestrians submitted to autopsy tested positive for psychotropic drugs [ii]
These data are alarming and force us to ask questions about the efficacy and safety of overmedication and especially about the approach we are taking to mental health problems.
We live in a world where stress, anxiety and depression have become increasingly common mental health problems. The modern way of life characterized by performance mandates, the pursuit of pleasure, the fragility of community ties, individualism and competitiveness makes demands that are difficult to cope with and often require some support. Although psychotropic drugs can be useful in certain cases and for a certain period of time, we must avoid the risk of falling into reductionist approaches and pathologizing the emotional problems of life itself.
In addition to the recognized side effects of such psychotropic drugs, one of the most significant risks of overmedication is that it can mask underlying problems. Instead of addressing the causes of anxiety or depression, medications simply relieve symptoms temporarily. This can lead to a false sense of security, as people believe they are “cured” when in fact they continue to face unresolved problems.
It is essential to promote an open conversation about mental health and raise awareness of the treatment options available. In this regard, psychotherapy can offer a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to recovery from most mental health problems, allowing individuals to regain control of their lives and develop skills to cope with long-term challenges.
Psychotherapy has been shown to be as effective as or more effective than medication for most mental disorders. In addition, it has advantages in post-treatment duration and savings in toxic effects. There are no disorders that do not have effective and efficient psychological treatments. [iii]
Psychotherapy offers a safe and effective alternative to overmedication. Rather than simply treating symptoms with medication, psychotherapy focuses on treating the underlying causes of the disorder. This can lead to longer-lasting results and a better quality of life for the patient.
In conclusion, while medications may be an appropriate tool in the treatment of some mental disorders, they should not be the only option as is currently the case. Psychological therapy offers a safe and effective alternative that can lead to longer lasting results and fewer side effects. It is time we reconsider our dependence on medication and give psychotherapy the recognition that, according to research, it deserves.
[i] “Encuesta sobre la salud mental en el ámbito laboral” Central Sindical Independiente de Funcionarios (CSIF).
[ii] 2019 data from the National Institute of Toxicology
[iii] Manual de Tratamientos Psicológicos: Adultos, de Eduardo Fonseca Pedrero (Coord.), Editorial Pirámide, year 2021.
