Unhinged: The Trouble with Psychiatry

by Daniel Carlat

Good Books rating 4.0

Psychology and Human Behavior

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ID: 10709
Added: 2026-02-02
Updated: 2026-02-09
ISBN: 9781416596356
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Published: 2010-05-18
Reviews: 3

In 'Unhinged,' psychiatrist Daniel Carlat delves into the alarming trend within his profession, where talk therapy has been largely replaced by the quick and lucrative practice of prescribing drugs. He critiques the reliance on DSM diagnoses, which he argues lack substantial scientific backing, and highlights the consequences of this shift, including the overprescription of medications to children. Carlat shares personal anecdotes and industry insights, exposing the inner workings of pharmaceutical marketing and the collusion between psychiatrists and drug companies. /n/nThe book also serves as a call to action, offering a roadmap for reform within the psychiatric profession. Carlat's candid reflections on his own struggles as a practitioner add a layer of authenticity to his arguments. This book is essential reading for anyone involved in or considering mental health treatment, as well as for psychiatrists seeking to reform their practice.

Reviews

Dr. Self on Instagram · Dr. Self · 2022-12-20

insightful 4.25

The book is praised for its well-written and stirring critique of the psychiatric profession. It is seen as a revealing look at the crisis within the field.

This review commends the book for its well-written and stirring critique of the psychiatric profession. The reviewer finds it to be a revealing look at the crisis within the field, highlighting the need for significant changes. They appreciate the author's boldness in exposing the problems and his call for a return to more effective and holistic treatments. The book is seen as a crucial read for anyone interested in the future of psychiatry.

Quick quotes

In this stirring and beautifully written wake-up call, psychiatrist Daniel Carlat exposes deeply disturbing problems.

A Doctor's Revelations about a Profession in Crisis.

The book is a crucial read for anyone interested in the future of psychiatry.

One-Minute Book Reviews · 2010-05-29

critical 4.00

The book critiques the shift in psychiatry from psychotherapy to medication, highlighting the harm caused by this transition. It also offers empowering advice for patients on effective treatments.

This review delves into the concerns raised about modern psychiatry's reliance on medication over therapeutic counseling. The author points out that this shift has led to treating symptoms rather than addressing the root causes of mental health issues. They also appreciate the practical advice provided for patients, helping them navigate the complexities of psychiatric treatment. The book is seen as a wake-up call for the profession, encouraging a return to more holistic approaches.

Quick quotes

Daniel Carlat focuses in Unhinged on the harm that he believes has resulted from the march of psychiatry away from psychotherapy and toward the better-paying.

Carlat argues that psychiatrists have settled for treating symptoms rather than causes, and are over-prescribing medication when therapeutic counseling would be more appropriate.

In this stirring and beautifully written wake-up call, psychiatrist Daniel Carlat exposes deeply disturbing problems.

Shrink Rap · 2010-05-10

thoughtful 3.75

The book provides a critical look at the current state of psychiatry, emphasizing the need for a return to psychotherapy. It also offers valuable insights and advice for patients.

This review highlights the book's critical examination of contemporary psychiatry, particularly its move away from psychotherapy. The author stresses the importance of addressing the underlying causes of mental health issues rather than just treating symptoms. They find the book to be a valuable resource for patients, offering practical advice on navigating psychiatric care. The review suggests that the book serves as a call to action for the profession to reconsider its approach.

Quick quotes

Throughout the book, Dr. Carlat provides empowering advice for prospective patients, describing the kinds of treatments that work, and those that do not.

Carlat argues that psychiatrists have settled for treating symptoms rather than causes, and are over-prescribing medication when therapeutic counseling would be more appropriate.

The book is a stirring and beautifully written wake-up call, exposing deeply disturbing problems in the field of psychiatry.

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