Psychopharmacology: Anxiety, Depression and Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia

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1 What are some of the challenges associated with the use of antianxiety medications and the treatment of anxiety? Do some independent research to identify current “best practices” in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Where do antianxiety drugs “fit” with best practices? Be sure to include a discussion of how you could work with the prescriber. Include legal and ethical issues associated with psychopharmacology. Examine the psychopharmacological interventions currently used for the DSM-5 disorders.
Anxiety disorders are a prevalent and debilitating mental health condition affecting millions worldwide. The recent pandemic has increased the number of people who suffer from anxiety disorders (da Silva et al., 2021). While there are several effective treatments for anxiety, including psychotherapy and medication, the use of antianxiety medications, can present several challenges. Thus, the treatment of anxiety disorders requires a comprehensive and individualized approach that considers best practices, including the use of psychotherapy as the first-line treatment and the use of medication in conjunction, when necessary, with collaboration and communication between the prescriber and therapist, and the consideration of legal and ethical issues associated with psychopharmacology.
Several challenges are associated with using antianxiety medications, such as the potential for addiction and abuse. Many anxiolytics, such as benzodiazepines, have a high potential for abuse and can cause severe withdrawal symptoms if not gradually tapered off. Additionally, long-term use of these medications can lead to tolerance, where higher doses are required to achieve the same level of anxiety relief, which can increase the risk of dependence and addiction. Another challenge is the potential for side effects. Antianxiety medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness, impair cognitive and motor functioning, interfere with daily activities, and increase the risk of accidents. They can also cause gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation, and can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements (Redmond, 2019). Thus, there are some drawbacks to using antianxiety medications.
Since antianxiety medications do not always work, other practices may effectively treat anxiety disorders. A best practice involves a comprehensive approach, including psychotherapy and medication when appropriate. The most effective psychotherapies for anxiety disorders are cognitive-behavioral therapy or CBT and exposure therapy, which involve teaching patients the skills to manage their anxiety and gradually exposing them to anxiety-provoking situations to desensitize them (Otte, 2022). Nevertheless, antianxiety medications are typically used with psychotherapy when anxiety symptoms are severe and debilitating or when the individual cannot participate in therapy due to extreme anxiety. They can immediately relieve symptoms and make it easier for individuals to engage in psychotherapy. Therefore, psychotherapy and medication, as needed, can be considered best practices in treating anxiety disorders.
Furthermore, when working with a prescriber, it is essential to collaborate and communicate effectively to ensure the best outcomes for the individual. The therapist should know the potential side effects and risks associated with antianxiety medications and communicate this information to the prescriber. They should also monitor the individual’s response to medication and report any adverse effects to the prescriber promptly. They should also obtain informed consent from the individual before starting medication and ensure that the medication is prescribed and administered appropriately. Therefore, the collaboration between the therapist and the prescriber is also essential for the success of the treatment.
In conclusion, treating anxiety disorders necessitates a comprehensive and individualized approach considering each individual's unique needs and circumstances. Even though antianxiety medications can provide immediate relief from symptoms, they also carry several risks, including the possibility of addiction and side effects. In best practices, psychotherapy is the first-line treatment, with medication used in conjunction when necessary. Collaboration and communication between the prescriber and therapist are critical to ensuring the best outcomes for the individual. Hence, mental health professionals can provide effective and compassionate care to individuals with anxiety disorders by following best practices and considering the potential challenges and risks associated with antianxiety medications.
2 Discuss some of the pharmacologic challenges of prescribing for those who have major depression or bipolar disorder. Emphasis should be placed on how you as a therapist can help the client work through ambivalence about taking medications to treat the selected disorder. Be sure to include a discussion of how you could work with the prescriber. Include legal and ethical issues associated with psychopharmacology. Examine the psychopharmacological interventions currently used for the DSM-5 disorders.
The COVID-19 pandemic had an immense impact on mental health worldwide. The stress and worries caused by the pandemic have increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Specifically, there has been an increase in the number of people suffering from depression. Major depression and bipolar disorder are severe mental health conditions that can be debilitating and interfere with an individual's ability to function in daily life (Daly et al., 2020). While psychotherapy can effectively treat these disorders, pharmacological interventions are often necessary, especially in severe or treatment-resistant symptoms (Park & Zarate, 2019). However, several pharmacological challenges are associated with prescribing medications for these disorders. A therapist must work with the prescriber and help clients work through ambivalence about taking medications.
One of the primary challenges associated with prescribing medications for major depression and bipolar disorder is finding the proper medication and dosage that works for each individual. Several medications treat these disorders, which include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), antidepressants, and mood stabilizers. However, finding the proper medication and dosage can take time and often requires trial and error, which can be frustrating for both the client and prescriber.
Another challenge is the potential for side effects, ranging from mild to severe, including nausea, dizziness, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors (Chen et al., 2020). These side effects can be distressing for clients and m...