My token liberal family member pulled the Atlantic / availability of guns line at a recent get together. When I mentioned the prevalence of these drugs, a shocked look of realization went across her face.
The people are depressed for a reason, which needs to be figured out, but most antidepressants do have some serious side effects if discontinued improperly. That's the part I think needs looked into. People have to learn you can't "self-medicate" with these things, you really do have to follow instructions from a doctor.
I hear a lot about med swapping or self administration at family gatherings. It scares me how easily people handle this stuff.
Next time you are at a gathering and you see an old guy napping in a chair, he's actually listening.