Critical Psychiatry: Controversies and Clinical Implications

This book is a guide for psychiatrists struggling to incorporate transformational strategies into their clinical work, focusing on critical psychiatry, the DSM diagnostic system, the pharmaceutical industry, de-prescribing, coercion, and other issues. Written by experts, it is the first book to explicate critical psychiatry from a clinically relevant perspective.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 225 pages
Publication date: 08 January 2019
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive guide is designed to assist psychiatrists in effectively integrating transformational strategies into their clinical practice. The book begins by providing a comprehensive overview of the concept of critical psychiatry, delving into its historical roots and its relevance in contemporary times. It then focuses its analytical lens on the DSM diagnostic system, exploring its strengths and weaknesses and the impact it has on psychiatric diagnosis and treatment.

The influence of the pharmaceutical industry on psychiatric practice is examined in depth, shedding light on the potential conflicts of interest and the impact of pharmaceutical marketing on clinical decision-making. The crucial distinction between drug-centered and disease-centered approaches to pharmacotherapy is explored, emphasizing the importance of holistic and patient-centered care.

Another important topic addressed in the book is "de-prescribing," a movement that advocates for reducing or eliminating unnecessary medication use in psychiatric patients. The authors discuss the ethical considerations and potential risks associated with de-prescribing, as well as the benefits of reducing medication burden and promoting healthier lifestyles.

Coercion in psychiatric practice is also explored, highlighting the ethical concerns and potential risks associated with using force or coercion to treat psychiatric patients. The authors provide practical advice on how to avoid coercion and ensure that patients are treated with respect and dignity.

In addition to these critical topics, the book addresses a range of other issues that constitute the targets of contemporary critiques of psychiatric theory and practice. These include the role of ideology in shaping psychiatric practice, the impact of social determinants of health on mental health, and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration in the treatment of mental illness.

Written by experts in each topic, Critical Psychiatry offers a balanced and unbiased perspective on these issues. The book is designed to be accessible to clinicians of all levels, from beginners to experienced practitioners. It provides conceptual insights and concrete advice that can be applied in clinical practice to improve the outcomes of psychiatric patients.

Overall, this book is a valuable resource for psychiatrists seeking to incorporate transformational strategies into their clinical work. It provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of critical psychiatry, covering a wide range of topics that are relevant to contemporary psychiatric practice. Whether you are a general or forensic psychiatrist, a family physician, an internist, or a pediatrician who treats psychiatric patients, or a mental health clinician outside of medicine, this book will help you deepen your understanding of the field and improve your clinical skills.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 127 x 201 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030027315
Edition number: 1st ed. 2019