Is it common practice that people who are victims of sexual abuse are put on antidepressants?

Answer 1

Antidepressants work on both depression AND anxiety. Either or both are a common response to abuse, and alleviating them makes therapy more effective. There also is theory, with some research backing it, that early life abuse changes regions of the brain that regulate emotion such that long-term adult depression may be a physical wound that doesn't heal easily. Therapy also helps with that. In fact, therapy is the only known way to work through PTSD. The meds are just an aide.

Answer 2

A symptom common to sexual abuse survivors is inner turmoil and depression, self loathing, fear in a depth not understood by the average person, with guilt and shame.

Yes, people treated for the severe symptoms of sexual abuse are often treated with antidepressants because they are depressed.

Answer 3

There are 3 avenues to recovery. Self-analysis, help from a therapist, and help from a psychiatrist - who often prescribes an antidepressant to relieve the symptoms of depression and anxiety.

But, the anti-depressant, while it does work, does not address and resolve the issue of the sexual abuse and its ramifications. Therefore, analysis, either by yourself or with the help of a professional is necessary.

Answer 4

Myself a survivor of sexual abuse, have been on many anti depressants. Unforunatly because of the hurtful things we have endured many do end up on anti d's to help us get through. Not all survivors of abuse use anti depressants, but i would say a minority do.

I hope this helps

Answer 5

I'm not a big fan of medications and I will tell you why. I was in an institution a few years back and after one day of speaking with me, the doctor 'knew' what was wrong with me and put me on the meds. Instead of being a threat to myself, the medicines made me the exact opposite: a homocidal zombie. I personally will never use any drugs that work to permantly change the way I use my own brain.

Answer 6

quite common, lets face it they have something to be seriously depressed about, the medications help them to avoid spiralling into a deeper depression while they work out the issue with a therapist.

Answer 7

Very common, that and good therapy are whats needed.