In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein to explore the complex world of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The scientists examine how these medications work in the brain, addressing both the supporting evidence for their effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety as well as ongoing controversies in the field. They discuss potential side effects, discontinuation symptoms, and the importance of individualized approaches to medication. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about SSRIs, including alleged links to violence and cognitive decline, while emphasizing critical evaluation of scientific research on these medications. Throughout the episode, the experts provide a balanced perspective on SSRIs' role in mental health treatment, offering listeners valuable insights into making informed decisions about these widely prescribed medications.

(00:00) Intro

(05:30) Understanding the Mechanism of SSRIs

(11:07) Controversies Surrounding SSRIs

(14:39) Evidence Supporting SSRIs for Depression and Anxiety

(18:40) Side Effects and Withdrawal from SSRIs

(21:19) The Impact of SSRIs on Mental Health

(24:33) Understanding SSRI Withdrawal Symptoms

(27:31) Debunking Myths: SSRIs and Violence

(31:20) SSRIs and Depression: A Complex Relationship

(34:32) SSRIs and Cognitive Decline in Dementia

(39:42) The Science Behind SSRIs

(42:06) Critical Thinking in Science

(44:33) The Role of PhDs vs. MDs in Mental Health

https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db377.htm

https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/30/fact-check-rfk-jrs-statements-during-senate-confirmation-hearing

https://autisticadvocacy.org/2025/02/asan-disappointed-by-robert-f-kennedy-jr-s-confirmation-to-lead-hhs/

https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2000804117

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4975858

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30479005/

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/wps.20701

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-021-01179-z

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Evonne Goolagong Cawley — the girl who conquered Wimbledon