Health Care still touts the chemical imbalance myth

In a new study, researchers have found that the chemical imbalance myth is still a prevalent explanation for depression among laypeople. They hear about it from a variety of sources, most commonly in the classroom. However, the most impactful source—the most likely to lead to belief in the myth—is from healthcare providers.

“Healthcare providers play an important role in the dissemination of the chemical imbalance message, which is an oversimplified, scientifically controversial, and potentially treatment-interfering narrative,” the researchers write.

The study was led by Hans S. Schroder at the University of Michigan Medical School. It was published in Frontiers in Psychology.

www.madinamerica.com/2025/01/health-care-providers-still-spreading-the-chemical-imbalance-myth-study-finds/