Fight for kids

Grand Rapids Press
March 11, 2008

Why does commenting on the fact that there is a problem with the psychiatric system warrant such attack?
Have we not observed the countless side effects of psychiatric medications commercialized on television? What about the increase in school shootings and the fact that these shooters were on psychotropic drugs or experiencing the harmful effects of sudden withdrawal from them?
There is a common thread here. There is a problem and I applaud Ann Auburn for being brave enough to say something about it (“Group campaigns against psychiatry,” Press, Feb. 25).
Dr. Mutchler stated that some mental illnesses are caused by chemical imbalances in the brain, which can be treated with psychotropic drugs, “‘much like diabetes when you don’t have enough insulin.’” But Dr. Mary Ann Block, author of “No More ADHD,” wrote: “Let me clear this up right now. ADHD is not like diabetes and Ritalin is not like insulin. Diabetes is a real medical condition that can be objectively diagnosed. ADHD is an invented label with no objective, valid means of identification. Insulin is a natural hormone produced by the body and it is essential for life. Ritalin is a chemically derived amphetamine-like drug that is not necessary for life. Diabetes is an insulin deficiency. Attention and behavioral problems are not a Ritalin deficiency.”

People are dying. Young children have committed suicide. Young adults are shooting up their schools.
I implore our medical community to stand up, as Ann Auburn, and do something about it.
ALLISON HEDSTROM
Grand Rapids