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May 5, 2026

HHS Secretary Kennedy Launches Initiative to Combat Overuse of Psychiatric Medications

  • Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. unveiled an initiative targeting the overuse of psychiatric medications, particularly for children, at a recent summit.
  • The plan emphasizes appropriate deprescribing, informed consent, shared decision-making, and a shift towards prevention and holistic mental health care.
  • New guidance from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will allow physicians to be reimbursed for helping patients taper off psychiatric medications and monitor withdrawal.