RFK Jr. unveils initiative targeting 'overuse' of psychiatric medications, especially among children

"Today, we take clear and decisive action to confront our nation's mental health crisis by addressing the overuse of psychiatric medications - especially among children," Kennedy said in a statement. 

"We will support patient autonomy, require informed consent and shared decision-making, and shift the standard of care toward prevention, transparency, and a more holistic approach to mental health."

Kennedy stressed the effort is not about forcing patients off medication, the outlet reported.

The department also highlighted other ways to treat mental health issues, including therapy, family support, better nutrition and exercise, when appropriate.

At the same time, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced new guidance allowing physicians to be reimbursed for helping patients safely taper off psychiatric medications and monitor withdrawal.

The plan also includes a new report on prescribing trends, more training for doctors, and a panel of experts to guide future decisions on medication use.

An HHS spokesperson pointed to rising prescription rates among children, including increases in ADHD diagnoses and antidepressant use, arguing the trend reflects "overmedicalization" and a need to expand non-drug, evidence-based treatment options.

"HHS is committed to elevating the role of nonmedication treatments and scalable, evidence-based solutions to improve mental health and prevent the unnecessary initiation of psychiatric medications," an HHS spokesperson told Fox News Digital.