Tijdschrift voor psychiatrie
-
In Flemish emergency psychiatry droperidol is still an option for the treatment of agitation. However, its efficacy and safety are contested. ⋯ In spite of a decline in the popularity of droperidol in most guidelines, the drug still seems to play a valuable role in the treatment of the agitated patient. Because it acts rapidly over a short period of time and is safe to use in patients with high (co)morbidity, it is still in favour with many health professionals.
-
In recent years several neuromodulation techniques have been introduced as interventions for addiction. ⋯ Neuromodulation provides us with a unique opportunity to directly apply neuroscientific knowledge to the treatment of addiction. However, more research is needed to ensure the efficacy, safety and feasibility of the various neuromodulation techniques that are now available.
-
Motivational processes play an important role in addictive behaviours. Craving is mainly an explicit or conscious process that can motivate individuals to continue alcohol, take drugs or smoke cigarettes. Craving also plays a role in relapse; self-reported craving has often been associated with relapse. However, craving cannot explain all addictive behaviours. In addition to craving, implicit cognitive processes play an important part in motivating individuals to become involved in substance use. ⋯ The research results are very promising, but more research is needed.
-
The recent rise of suicide rates internationally clearly indicates that the medical profession needs to give more attention to suicidality. ⋯ Recent initiatives in the Netherlands such as 113Online and the Multi-disciplinary guideline for diagnosis and treatment of suicidal behaviour constitute apt responses to the alarming rise of suicide rates, but it is not clear to what extent these initiatives will be able to counterbalance the interpersonal and social-economic mechanisms which appear to have determined suicide rates in the course of history.