Mental Health Solicitors

Mental health charity SANE has said that new research suggesting that most antidepressant drugs are ineffective for children and teens leaves “a gap in any treatments that are available” to youngsters with mental health issues.

A study published in The Lancet found that, out of 14 drugs tested, only fluoxitene – marketed as Prozac – was found to be more effective than placebo at treating severe depression in children and teenagers.

The study also linked venlafaxine with an increased risk of suicidal attempts or thoughts, compared with a placebo and five other drugs.

The study involved 5,260 participants aged nine to 18 – and authors of the journal have stressed that not enough data is available to understand the true effectiveness, safety and “suicidility risk” of antidepressants taken by children and teenagers.

As a result, close monitoring of young people on any antidepressant – especially at the start of treatment – is needed.

Chief executive of SANE, Marjorie Wallace, said:

“The dangers of prescribing antidepressants to children have been known for some time – with the potential side effects of increased suicidal thoughts and behaviour.

“While this study clearly emphasises that giving antidepressants should be used only as a last resort, it leaves a gap in any treatments that are available – and makes it even more urgent to deliver high-quality therapeutic interventions to children and families before any mental health condition becomes entrenched.

“What we need are more specialist units, better training for mental health staff and earlier responses to concerned families.”

Duncan Lewis Mental Health Solicitors

Duncan Lewis is the UK’s leading provider of Legal Aid mental health services – and can advise mental health patients on their rights under the Mental Health Act, as well as access to NHS services and detention under the Mental Health Act.

In some cases, Duncan Lewis may be able to advise the nearest relative or carer of a mental health patient on issues such as treatment reviews, where appropriate.

There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and our mental health lawyers are available at short notice for appointments at police stations and hospitals across the country.

Duncan Lewis family solicitors can also advise on the care of vulnerable family members, including access to care for dementia patients, power of attorney and Court of Protection cases.

For expert legal advice on UK mental health law, call Duncan Lewis mental health solicitors on 0333 772 0409.