The importance of Mental Health {Psychiatric} for Sustainable Development
Dr. Roger S. McIntyre, MD, FRCPC: It’s quite fascinating, you see. We are merely skimming the surface, and there are numerous facets we have yet to explore. However, if you ponder our discourse, it encapsulates the past, the present, and the future. Historically, psychiatry has perpetually harbored a keen appetite for expeditious therapeutic solutions. This, undeniably, is both pragmatic and acceptable. Allow me to hark back to an intriguing historical instance, that of sleep deprivation, which, while captivating, lacks practicality and societal acceptance. Yet, the appetite for rapid remedies never waned.
In the 1960s and 1970s, a surge of youthful individuals—albeit unbeknownst to many joining us today—embraced the notion of aggressively elevating antipsychotic dosages to swiftly extricate patients from the clutches of psychosis. Noble in intention, alas, this approach fell short in terms of practicality and acceptability. We now stand at the threshold of a new era. Dextromethorphan bupropion in tandem, esketamine, and, in a parenthetical aside, the presence of esteemed neurostimulation experts, introducing accelerated TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) that yields results within a week. A truly exhilarating development.
Additionally, we find ourselves equipped with an entirely fresh array of options—enter the GABAergic ligands or treatments, meticulously tailored to the model of depressive malaise. These solutions act with celerity, bringing relief to those who yearn for respite from their afflictions. The past invariably lingers with us.
In the current moment, we are endowed with therapies capable of addressing our patients’ needs expediently. As for the future, well, to quote Yogi Berra, “Predictions are always difficult, especially when they involve the future.” Thus, I lack a crystal ball to foretell what lies ahead. Nevertheless, I hold a firm belief, Carmen. I firmly believe that in 5 to 10 years, we shall reminisce about the days when we waited 4 to 6 weeks for pharmaceuticals to exert their effects. What notions held sway during that era, one may wonder.
We have, in my estimation, embarked on an overdue chapter where individuals with lived experiences receive the treatment they rightfully deserve. Swift-acting therapies that meet their approval and can be administered as the need arises. The field finds itself in a time imbued with optimism. Allow me to affirm, devoid of hyperbole, that my journey in this realm spans a quarter-century—it’s genuinely thrilling.
Carmen, you and I have collaborated on numerous initiatives before. I extend my gratitude, as always, for your collegiality, professionalism, and, of course, the sagacious counsel you impart in these enlightening dialogues. To our audience, I extend my appreciation for joining this presentation by Psychiatric Times. If you found value in this program, please subscribe to our E! Newsletters to receive forthcoming installments and other enriching content delivered directly to your inbox. And once more, Carmen, I express my gratitude. Thank you for your presence. I sincerely thank you for gracing us with your company, and I extend my best wishes to all our esteemed colleagues. Be well and take good care.
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