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University of the People *

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PSYCHIATRI

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Nursing

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Nov 24, 2024

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docx

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Psychopathology and mental health. Discussion unit 2. Due date November 29th, 2023. The predominant treatment model for mental illness in Western societies is primarily based on psychopharmacology; psychopharmaceutical medications are easily accessible through general practitioners as well as emergency care and are often a substitute for long-term treatment, such as CBT, which has been proven to be just as effective, however, due to time and financial constraints this particular form of treatment is often over prescribed. (Coombs et al., 2021). Despite its effectiveness in relieving symptoms, the treatment method is often abused and sometimes creates additional problems such as addictions. An example can be observed in the use and effects of Benzodiazepines. This class of psychoactive drugs is commonly used to relieve symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal, and other conditions. Still, it is highly addictive. Benzodiazepines can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as increased tolerance and self-harming behavior. They can also cause physical tremors, anxiety, depression, hypersensitivity, and sleep disturbances, and in rare cases, withdrawal can lead to psychosis and convulsions. (Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, n.d.). Such a rare instance was observed by the world when a renowned professor almost lost his life in an attempt to stop taking this class of medication suddenly. (Dr. Todd Grande. 2019). Culture can have a significant impact on how mental health is perceived, as well as the forms of drugs used in treatment; as a Jamaican native, Marijuana is the most common drug used on the island to treat undiagnosed mental illness, and it is so ingrained in the culture, that now it is seen by most of the world as a part of the Jamaican identity. However, our beautiful island is riddled with social injustice, poverty, and lack of access to adequate mental health services due to the socio-economic challenges of a young nation recovering from the traumatic effects of colonial slavery. (Hickling, F. W. 2019). Smokers report that Marijuana has helped to reduce symptoms of insomnia, anxiety, and depression, along with other euphoric and physical health benefits. However, scientific studies have also revealed that Marijuana use
can result in depression, low IQ, poor job performance, and long-term memory impairment in adulthood, especially in those with traumatic histories who are four to seven times more likely to develop a drug dependency. Increased impulsivity, poor driving, anxiety, psychosis, and apathy are further side effects. (Janeway, D. 2021). In conclusion, there seems to be no existing sure-fix method when it comes to the treatment of mental illness. However, it is clear from the readings that most patients seem to do best when they take an active role in their recovery rather than depend on external substance use. Word Count: 437. Reference Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior. (n.d.). Benzodiazepine addiction. https://www.semel.ucla.edu/dual-diagnosis- program/Conditions_Treated/Benzodiazepine_Addictions#:~:text=Benzodiazepine%20addictions%20can %20involve%20both,doses%20are%20stopped%20or%20reduced.&text=Signs%20of%20benzodiazepine %20addiction%20include,unable%20to%20function%20without%20benzodiazepines
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