More than 88,000 given antidepressants last year

New figures reveal ‘changing attitudes’ as more people seek help

One-in-six people in the north-east were prescribed antidepressants last year, new figures have shown.

More than 88,000 people were given tablets by doctors in the NHS Grampian area on at least one occasion.

This marked a 16% increase on the 76,000 patients prescribed in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire and Moray in 2015.

But health chiefs have stressed the rise may not be “a bad thing” – with changing attitudes towards mental health likely a key contributing factor.

Astrid Whyte, the chief executive of Mental Health Aberdeen, said the work of major campaigns is beginning to pay off.

She said: “People are more aware of their mental health and employers are more aware of their general responsibilities.

“There has been a massive increase in awareness, and I think stigma has slightly reduced, but is still alive and kicking.”

But Ms Whyte said the rise cannot be solely attributed to society’s changing attitude.

“Mental ill health has also been on the increase,” she added. “We are much busier now – and are deluged most years.”

The new figures, obtained by The Press and Journal, show there has been a 20% increase in the number of patients prescribed antipsychotics – used to help with conditions including schizophrenia and some forms of bipolar disorder – over the last five years.

Additionally, there was a 40% rise in prescriptions for ADHD medication.

A spokesman for NHS Grampian said: “These medications are vital for thousands of people and often make a significant, sometimes lifesaving, difference to our patients.

“That’s why it is so important that a rise in the number prescribed is not automatically interpreted as a bad thing.

“Rising awareness and understanding of mental health conditions means we are undoubtedly seeing more and more people seeking medical help. That is welcome progress.”

Scottish Conservative MSP for Aberdeenshire West, Alexander Burnett, said: “These figures highlight people are seeking help which should be encouraged but at the same time it shows the extent mental health is having on people’s lives.

“It’s important antidepressants are monitored carefully and the risks and benefits of taking them are assessed in each case.

“NHS Grampian is doing a fantastic job in encouraging people who are suffering to come forward and the board deserves credit for the care which is being put in place.”

Photograph by Kami Thomson DELUGED: Astrid Whyte, chief executive of Mental Health Aberdeen, says mental ill health, as well as awareness, has been on the increase.