Documentary
United Kingdom
In the documentary, Louis Theroux visits the Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He meets with families who have chosen to medicate their children for a variety of behavioural and psychiatric conditions, such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, and anxiety.
Throughout the film, Theroux talks to children as young as four years old who are taking multiple medications, including antipsychotics, stimulants, and antidepressants. He also speaks with the parents of these children to understand their decision to medicate and their experiences with the mental healthcare system.
The documentary raises questions about the potential harm caused by overmedicating children and the pressure parents face to find solutions for their children’s behavioural problems. It also highlights the controversial nature of psychiatric diagnoses in children, which can be subjective and lead to concerns about overdiagnosis and inappropriate medication use.
Overall, the film provides insight into the complex world of psychiatric treatment for children in America and raises important questions about mental healthcare practices.
