Press Release 7th August 2006

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The 4th R's response to - Drug “treats depression in hours”

7th August 2006

Commenting today on the BBC's news item - Drug "treats depression in hours",Victor Spiteri, Director of Communications for The 4th R, said it is irresponsible to provide the recreational drug ketamine as an anaesthetic to relieve the symptoms of depression.

He added:

“In the sixties and seventies many people became addicted to “mood lifting” drugs and found themselves on the roller coaster ride between hell and heaven, and back to hell. 

Not very long afterward came the realization that these drugs were not so wonderful after all. They carried with them a long list of possible, or rather probable, side effects.  They were also highly addictive. Patients had become little more than junkies going to their doctor for their daily fix.

These types of drugs interfere with the natural chemicals produced by a gland in the brain.  Synthetic drugs tend to exaggerate mood swings, between extreme bouts of euphoria and the slough of suicidal despondency.  People need to be taught how to take control of how they feel from the inside, using their body’s natural resources.  The right training and support is invariably more beneficial to people with depression, than mood lifting drugs.”

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For further information please call The 4th R on 020-8974-8974 or email the press office .

To view a copy of the BBC news article Drug “treats depression in hours” visit the BBC news website .

Notes to editor

1. The 4th R have been the first organization to become established for the study, research and teaching of relaxation for health in the UK.  It aims to advance the education of the public and health professionals in all matters relating to relaxation for health, and to preserve and protect the health of the general public by giving advice, assistance and training on how to be relaxed. The 4th R do this by providing information in its own publications and through media contributions; by conducting a series of community educational programs and events, and by providing educational courses currently ranging from introductory group lessons to private lessons to weekend long training programs.   
On-line facilities include a book store, a comprehensive library of articles, and their bi-monthly learn to relax newsletter: Relaxation  Matters.

2. Stress and anxiety damages health.  Withdrawal, aggression, insomnia and intolerance are just some of the indicators of stress or anxiety.

3. The 4th R produce a free bi-monthly publication called "Relaxation Matters".  It teaches people how to relax.  It is available at www.the4thr.co.uk or call 020-8974-8974

The 4th R

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