Mental Health Reform Advocate Ellen Lubensky: "Ask Questions" on Psychiatric Medications and Informed Consent

  On the Health Policy Podcast, attorney and mental health reform advocate Ellen Lubensky discusses her concerns about the use of psychiatric medications and the lack of informed consent in mental health care. Drawing from personal experience, she argues that patients are often prescribed medications during brief appointments without a full understanding of potential risks, including dependency and withdrawal effects. Lubensky calls for greater transparency from physicians, longer consultation times, and systemic changes in funding that would prioritize therapy and patient education before medication. She also highlights barriers within insurance and disability systems that may discourage alternative treatments. Her core message to listeners is to advocate for themselves, ask questions, and seek providers who take the time to explain treatment options thoroughly.