The Thinking Mind Podcast: Psychiatry & Psychotherapy E109 - Is Depression a Medical Illness? (w/ Prof. Joanna Moncrieff)
Jan 31, 2025
Joanna Moncrieff, a British psychiatrist and professor at UCL, shares her critical insights into the serotonin theory of depression. She discusses the lack of evidence supporting the idea that low serotonin causes depression and calls for a reevaluation of antidepressants' effectiveness. The conversation dives into the multifaceted nature of depression, emphasizing social factors and personal experiences over strict biological interpretations. Moncrieff also highlights the risks of long-term medication use, advocating for a nuanced approach to mental health that includes comprehensive support systems.
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Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Intro
00:00 • 3min
Rethinking Serotonin and Depression
03:07 • 24min
Exploring Genetic Influences on Personality and Depression
26:39 • 2min
Reframing Depression: Beyond Biology
29:09 • 11min
Rethinking the Role of Psychiatry in Mental Health
40:36 • 2min
Exploring the Biological Basis of Psychosis and Depression
42:12 • 3min
Understanding the Function of Antipsychotic Medications
44:55 • 2min
Navigating Medication in Psychosis Treatment
46:54 • 16min
