BBC seeks interviewees for documentary about antidepressant long-term side effects & withdrawal

[Altostrata]

Received this request for interviewees:

 

Quote

 

"The BBC is producing a documentary about the long-term side effects and withdrawal effects of antidepressant medication. They are looking to speak to individuals who have decided to come off their medication and would be open to allowing us to follow their journey throughout this process, alongside the reporter of the film who will be doing the same. By following a number of people on this journey, the film will illustrate the diversity of peoples' experiences in coming off medication and the advice they are given on how to safely do so. Filming will mainly involve video blogs.

 

The BBC appreciates the very sensitive nature of making a decision like this and will ensure you are supported throughout. If you are someone who has decided off this medication and are open to finding out more about the programme, please reach out to: alex.gatenby@bbc.co.uk or bryony.Hopkins@bbc.co.uk"

 

 

I can't answer questions about this project. f you have questions, please write the contacts given above and share their answers here.

[Caspur]

Thanks, Alto. I have contacted them and had quite a long email conversation. I wasn't going to volunteer to participate, but decided I would do so. However, after initial contact and enthusiasm, they have gone quiet and don't reply to emails. Disappointing.

[LostInMarshes]

Have not responded to me, either.

[Caspur]

Unfortunately I received this email from today. Very disappointing, but in a way no great surprise. Laying bear the process of antidepressant withdrawal on prime time TV was going to be opposed by many parties.

 

Hi Edward,

 

Thank you so much for taking the time to engage with us on what we appreciate is an incredibly sensitive subject matter.

 

Unfortunately an executive decision has been made not to progress further with the project for various departmental reasons. This is not a reflection on the subject matter of the documentary in any way. We totally understand this news will be a disappointment, but we can’t thank you enough for taking the time and energy to speak with us on something so personal. Please rest assured that everything you have told us remains completely confidential.

 

Alex, who pitched this story and was going to report on the film, is a freelance journalist and very much intends on pursuing the production of the documentary elsewhere, considering the unfortunate changes to intended plans. We wanted to ask if it was okay with you for her to keep your details on file and keep in touch directly going forwards? Absolutely no pressure on this, please do tell say if you’d rather not.

 

Many thanks for all of the time you gave us and I am sorry to deliver this news.

 

Best wishes,

Bryony