Submitted by Stephen Ray Flora, Ph.D., Mar 13, 2008 11:13

Given the explosion of diagnoses (labels) of psychological and behavioral problems masquerading as "disorders" (from 66 in the first DSM to almost 400 today) coupled with the fact that the U.S. along with New Zealand are the only countries in the world that allow direct to consumer advertisement of pharmaceuticals, it is no wonder drugs that supposedly treat anxiety and stabilize moods are found in our drinking water. The pervasiveness of these pharmaceuticals is ironic and deplorable because in the vast majority of cases they are either unnecessary or even counter productive. From anxiety problems, phobias, and depression, to schizophrenia, sleeping and sexual difficulties the data is conclusive that behavioral treatment is more effective than drug treatment. Furthermore, while drug side effects are aversive and often harmful, the side effects of behavioral treatment are beneficial, facilitating self-empowerment. But like street corner pushers, the pharmaceutical companies do want their consumers to become self-empowered; they need folks to remain dependent if not addicted to their product. One end result is that drugs are in the water we drink. See my book "Taking America Off Drugs" State University of New York Press, 2007 (SUNYpress.edu) for evidence of the superiority of behavioral treatment over drug treatment.

Note: Comments are screened, and in some cases edited, before posting. We reserve the right to reject anything we find objectionable.