Letters Editor
The Irish Times
D'Olier Street
Dublin 1

Dear Madam,

I would like to comment on an article in the Irish Times of 3rd December 2002 which raises issues around the prescription of antidepressants.

While it is true to say that there are no definitive tests for the conditions of schizophrenia, manic depressive illness or depression, these clinical syndromes are internationally recognised by the World Health Organisation and detailed in the International Classification of Diseases 10th Revision (ICD-10) and the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 4th Edition (DSM-4). All Psychiatrists are trained in the use of these diagnostic criteria.

There is also a substantial research evidence base for the use of antidepressant medication in the treatment of depressive illness. The Irish College of Psychiatrists agrees with the prescription of antidepressants for depressive illness as part of a treatment package, often in combination with other psychological therapies, which would be prescribed on an individual case-by-case basis.

The College is continually concerned about accessing sufficient resources in the Mental Health Services to allow broad-based treatment packages to be made available to all patients. The College is also concerned about the effect of adverse publicity on patients who may be receiving antidepressant treatment. Individual patients who are concerned about their treatment should contact their doctor.

Yours sincerely,
Dr Colette Halpin
Chairperson, Irish College of Psychiatrists