Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up

The author of "Irreversible Damage" investigates how mental health overdiagnosis is harming children, arguing that the mental health industry has transformed the way we teach, treat, discipline, and talk to our kids. She reveals that most therapeutic approaches have serious side effects and few proven benefits, and that the cure can be worse than the disease.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Swift Press

From the author of the groundbreaking book "Irreversible Damage," comes a powerful and eye-opening investigation into the harmful effects of mental health overdiagnosis on children. In her latest work, "Bad Therapy," bestselling investigative journalist Abigail Shrier takes a no-holds-barred approach to examining the practices and beliefs of mental health professionals and parenting experts, challenging the notion that they are solely responsible for the well-being of our children.

In this thought-provoking book, Shrier argues that the problem lies not with the children themselves, but with the mental health industry. Through extensive research and hundreds of interviews with child psychologists, parents, teachers, and young people, she reveals the ways in which the mental health industry has transformed the way we teach, treat, discipline, and even talk to our kids.

One of the key findings of "Bad Therapy" is that most of the therapeutic approaches used today have serious side effects and few proven benefits. For instance, talk therapy, often recommended for children with mental health issues, can induce rumination, trapping children in cycles of anxiety and depression. Similarly, the "gentle parenting" approach, which emphasizes positive reinforcement and non-confrontational discipline, can lead to emotional turbulence in children, as they struggle to find an adult to take charge.

Shrier also exposes the pervasive influence of pharmaceutical companies on the mental health industry. She highlights the marketing strategies used to promote antidepressant medications to children and the lack of evidence supporting their effectiveness in treating mental health conditions. The overprescription of these drugs, particularly to young children, has raised concerns about their long-term effects and the potential for addiction.

In addition to examining the negative effects of therapeutic approaches, "Bad Therapy" offers practical solutions for parents seeking to support their children's mental health. Shrier advocates for a more holistic approach that emphasizes building strong relationships, promoting physical activity, and promoting a healthy diet. She also encourages parents to be more involved in their children's lives, to listen to their concerns, and to provide guidance and support without resorting to diagnoses or medication.

"Bad Therapy" is a message that parents, teachers, mental health professionals, and policymakers need to hear. The prevalence of mental health diagnoses has not helped the staggering number of kids who are lonely, lost, sad, and fearful of growing up. It is time to take a step back and examine the practices and beliefs that are contributing to this crisis. By challenging the status quo
quo, we can work towards creating a more supportive and nurturing environment for our children, where they can thrive and develop into healthy, happy adults.

In conclusion, "Bad Therapy" is a must-read for anyone who is concerned about the well-being of our children. It is a powerful and eye-opening exploration of the harmful effects of mental health overdiagnosis and offers practical solutions for parents seeking to support their children's mental health. By questioning the status quo and advocating for a more holistic approach, we can work towards creating a better future for our children.

Weight: 524g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800754133