Peter Breggin

American psychiatrist and critic of psychiatric medication

Peter Breggin giving an interview via teleconference in 2022

Peter Roger Breggin (born May 11, 1936) is an American psychiatrist known for his criticism of psychiatric medication and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). He has been a vocal advocate for patient rights and has written extensively on the potential harms of psychiatric treatments.

Early Life and Education

Peter Breggin was born in New York City. He attended Harvard College and later graduated from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Breggin completed his psychiatric residency at Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Mental Health Center.

Career

Breggin began his career as a psychiatrist in the 1960s. He has worked in various capacities, including private practice, teaching, and research. Over the years, Breggin has become known for his opposition to the widespread use of psychiatric drugs and ECT. He has argued that these treatments can be harmful and that they often do not address the underlying causes of mental distress.

Criticism of Psychiatric Medication

Breggin has been a prominent critic of psychiatric medications, particularly antidepressants, antipsychotics, and stimulants used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). He has published numerous books and articles arguing that these drugs can have severe side effects and that they are often prescribed without adequate consideration of their risks.

Views on Electroconvulsive Therapy

Breggin is also known for his opposition to ECT, a treatment that involves sending electrical currents through the brain to induce seizures. He has argued that ECT can cause permanent brain damage and memory loss, and he has called for its abolition.

Publications

Peter Breggin has authored several books and articles on psychiatry and mental health. Some of his notable works include:

• Toxic Psychiatry
• Talking Back to Prozac
• Medication Madness

Advocacy and Legal Work

Breggin has been involved in various legal cases as an expert witness, often testifying about the potential harms of psychiatric treatments. He has also been active in advocating for patient rights and informed consent in psychiatric care.

Related Pages

• Psychiatry
• Antidepressant
• Electroconvulsive therapy
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder