As part of a year-long investigation, WSJ’s Shalini Ramachandran and Betsy McKay have been reporting on two of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in America: benzodiazepines and antidepressants. These drugs weren’t intended for long-term use, but some Americans end up on them for years. Betsy and Shalini spoke to many patients who experienced the downsides. So a basic question popped up: Is America overmedicated?

Further Listening: 

- A Quick Fix for Hair Loss Is Making Some Men Sick

- Uncontrolled Substances, Part 1: Subscribe and Prescribe 

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The Journal.

The Wall Street Journal & Spotify Studios

Is America on Too Many Psychiatric Drugs?

DEC 3, 202522 MIN
The Journal.

Is America on Too Many Psychiatric Drugs?

DEC 3, 202522 MIN

Description

As part of a year-long investigation, WSJ’s Shalini Ramachandran and Betsy McKay have been reporting on two of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in America: benzodiazepines and antidepressants. These drugs weren’t intended for long-term use, but some Americans end up on them for years. Betsy and Shalini spoke to many patients who experienced the downsides. So a basic question popped up: Is America overmedicated?

Further Listening:

- A Quick Fix for Hair Loss Is Making Some Men Sick

- Uncontrolled Substances, Part 1: Subscribe and Prescribe

Sign up for WSJ’s free What’s News newsletter.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices