Comments on: On Dr. Szasz And Coercive Psychiatry

By: Kathie Zatkin

Kathie Zatkin — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 22:52:56 +0000

These essays and commentary raise important points. Why so few investigations about the abuse that inevitably flows from secrecy? Do large news organizations feel threatened and agree to self-censorship? [After witnessing the presstitutes' lack of criticalÂ reaction to the war, it has to be obvious that we simply live in the age of stupidity and statism--ILANA] Fear of loss of advertisers? Even so-called public media is heavily supported by drug companies--just give a listen to your PBS stations. Why not have mental "treatment" facilities open to the public? Confidentiality blocks accountability and can often shield criminal action and/or failure to disclose. Why do drug companies and others demand sealed settlements? Related to this topic: California attorneys are required to take continuing legal education courses on Substance Abuse. Yesterday I attended a seminar that touted the State-Bar funded legal Assistance Program that provides free treatment or loans in all 58 counties for attorneys who volunteer to follow a treatment program for substance abuse or mental health problems. Statistics cited the huge number of impaired attorneys. The final statement of the presenter was "We know coerced treatment works." Even some patient/survivor groups that formerly opposed or at least questioned the value of psychiatric labels are acceding. It appears that influence or even the hope of influence is a powerful motivator for rationalization.

By: Edward

Edward — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 15:34:39 +0000

Psychiatry is a “medicine” that is based on the “science” of psychology.

By: concha

concha — Thu, 11 Jan 2007 14:53:45 +0000

Terrific letter Mr. Frank, you spell out this medical tyranny quite clearly.
A hundred years ago, a little boy would work out his God-given energy and enthusiasm by chopping wood, working the farm, or walking to school. Now children are confined to their apartments because it is too dangerous to play outside, are told to sit all day in class and then go home to a t.v. set, and are strapped inside cars and buses. There is no freedom of movement, no open space, no safe neighborhoods.
That’s our fault, not theirs.
I don’t trust experts anymore, especially in the medical and psychiatric fields. Dr. Szasz however, is the exception.