Therapy Won't Save Us

The article examines the paradox of increasing reliance on mental health therapy and medication in the U.S., contrasted with worsening mental health indicators such as rising suicide rates and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Despite more people seeking treatment, including therapy and antidepressants, significant issues in the field of psychiatry remain unresolved. Experts debate the effectiveness of current treatments and diagnostic processes that can be subjective and often lead to misdiagnosis or ineffective care. While therapy can have variable success depending on the clinician and treatment type, medication like antidepressants often shows only modest benefits. Critics suggest that deeper, systemic issues—such as societal stressors and inadequacies within the healthcare system—are not being addressed. They advocate for solutions that extend beyond traditional medical treatments, including improving social determinants like housing and community support, while the need for greater resources and more comprehensive care remains urgent.