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

The effectiveness of drug treatments for mental disorders has been the subject of extensive research and debate. A significant number of mental disorders are treated with pharmacological approaches, particularly when patients face long waits for psychotherapy.

In 2018, the NHS in England provided over 70.9 million prescriptions for mental health conditions, such as depression. While prescriptions are available, it’s crucial to note that the cost of drugs, particularly antidepressants, places a burden on the NHS, which spent £672.5 million on these treatments up to October 2018. This large expenditure underlies the importance of evaluating whether these medications genuinely improve patients' quality of life or merely serve as a temporary solution.

Drug treatments work by modifying the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are essential for regulating mood and emotional responses. For instance, drugs used to treat mental disorders often act on neurotransmitters like dopamine, potentially alleviating some symptoms of the disorder. However, reliance on drugs can lead to further concerns, including the risk of dependency and side effects, which may complicate the recovery process.

Moreover, it is essential to consider alternative approaches, such as psychotherapy or counseling, which might address the root causes of mental health issues more directly than pharmacological treatments alone. Therefore, while drug treatments can be effective in managing symptoms, a holistic approach that combines medication with therapy may provide the best outcomes for individuals suffering from mental disorders.