Mental Health Watchdog Links Psychiatric Drugs to Violence, Calls for Investigation

The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), a mental health watchdog, is urging lawmakers to investigate the potential link between psychiatric drugs and violent behavior. This demand comes amid growing concerns about the widespread use of psychotropic medications and their possible role in acts of violence and suicide.

According to CCHR, more than 30 studies, drug regulatory agency warnings, and expert opinions have linked psychotropic drugs to violent and suicidal behavior. The organization reports that 27 international drug agency warnings connect psychiatric drugs to adverse effects such as violence, mania, psychosis, or homicide. Additionally, 51 warnings highlight risks of self-harm or suicide, while 22 mention aggression and hostility.

Diane Stein, president of CCHR Florida, stated, "It is known that people taking or withdrawing from psychiatric drugs have committed at least 65 high-profile acts of senseless violence, resulting in 357 dead and 336 wounded." She emphasized that these figures include at least 37 school-related violent incidents.

The watchdog group is calling for mandatory toxicology testing for psychiatric and illicit drugs in cases of mass shootings or serious violent crimes. They also advocate for training law enforcement officers, school security personnel, and teachers on the potential adverse effects of psychotropic drugs to help them recognize possible drug-influenced behavior.

This push for investigation comes at a time when psychiatric medication use is widespread, with reportedly one in six Americans taking such drugs. The CCHR's demands challenge current approaches to mental health treatment and substance abuse, including Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for addiction, which the organization criticizes as potentially perpetuating drug dependency.

The CCHR's call to action contrasts with recent government initiatives, such as the Biden-Harris administration's $68.5 million grant award to support behavioral health education, training, and community programs. As the debate over mental health treatment and its societal impacts continues, the CCHR's demands highlight the need for a comprehensive review of current practices and their potential consequences.