Radically Genuine Podcast with Dr. Roger McFillin 92. ADHD: Pills, Profits, and Pushback w/ Gretchen LeFever Watson PhD
10 snips
May 22, 2025 Gretchen LeFever Watson, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist renowned for her pivotal research on ADHD, dives deep into the complexities surrounding its diagnosis and treatment. She discusses the alarming trends of overmedication and the influence of the pharmaceutical industry on diagnoses. The conversation sheds light on the ethical challenges researchers face when confronting established narratives, emphasizing the need for informed consent and grassroots advocacy. Watson's insights reveal the societal impacts of ADHD perception and the urgent need for transparency in mental health practices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Early ADHD Diagnosis Surge
- Gretchen LeFever Watson experienced a huge surge in ADHD diagnoses from late 80s to late 90s.
- She documented over 75% of clinic cases being diagnosed with ADHD and found 17% of children in schools were diagnosed or medicated.
Suppression of ADHD Medication Risks
- Industry-funded ADHD research attacked studies showing harm from ADHD medication.
- This suppression led to ignoring risks like increased substance abuse linked to ADHD meds.
Localized ADHD Overdiagnosis
- Southeastern Virginia had ADHD diagnosis rates in the top 1% nationally.
- ADHD was not universally overdiagnosed but crisis levels existed in specific communities.
