Marshall Swadron makes presentation to Legislative Committee

September 23, 2009 - Toronto  - Marshall Swadron spoke today to the Select Committee on Mental Health and Addictions, a committee of the Ontario Legislature established to help develop ways to improve access to mental health and addiction services in the province.

Speaking as Chair of the Mental Health Legal Committee, Swadron warned of the influence of the pharmaceutical industry in the development of mental health and addictions policy. He identified the adverse health impacts of neuroleptic medications, the first line treatments for schizphrenia and psychosis. Finally, he critiqued the pervasiveness of coercion in the delivery of mental health services in Ontario, pointing out that a home, a job and a friend can go much further in overcoming the adverse effects of mental disorder than the controversial treatments presently available.

For Hansard's transcription of Swadron's presentation, please click here.