'War for Your Mind'

The emergence of psychotherapy in the 20th century changed the way we see ourselves as humans. At no other time in human history have we been more aware of how we feel and of our emotions. Today it seems like everything in our society is viewed through how we feel, or how someone else feels. Psychotherapy has led to a whole new healthcare industry that focuses on helping people control their feelings, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Over the years this industry has developed a verity of different diagnoses and treatments for what they term, "mental illness". Some of these treatments, such as electroshock therapy and lobotomies, are no longer in use and are considered inhumane and barbaric today. We look back with disbelief that we could ever use such procedures in the name of healthcare. However, we may look back on this time with the same dismay over the pharmaceuticals currently being used to treat mental health. Why are drugs such a big part of mental health treatment? Join the conversation and get answers to this question and more on According2Sam episode #208.