In your studies of clinical psychology, you will have learned about a key question of relevance to today's society - AQA - A-Level Psychology - Question 4 - 2022 - Paper 2

One key question in clinical psychology is whether the use of drugs is an effective treatment for mental disorders. Many mental disorders, such as depression and anxiety, are commonly treated with pharmacological interventions alongside psychotherapy.

In 2018, over 70.9 million prescriptions were issued for various mental health disorders by the NHS in England. Specifically, the financial burden of antidepressants alone summed to £672.5 million by October 2018, indicating a significant reliance on medication. Furthermore, the ability of medication to keep individuals functioning in their everyday lives should not be overlooked, as it can help them maintain employment and prevent financial distress due to waiting lists for psychological therapies.

However, the efficacy of such treatments can be questioned. Drug treatments alter the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are fundamental to mood regulation. For instance, antipsychotic medications lower the dopaminergic activity, potentially alleviating symptoms for those with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Conversely, treatments like SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) increase serotonin levels to reduce depressive symptoms.

In conclusion, while drug treatments can be effective for managing symptoms, it is vital to consider the broader implications, including long-term dependency and the necessity for integrative approaches combining both medication and psychotherapy.