Revolution Health Radio RHR: Reviewing the Evidence on the Serotonin Theory of Depression, with Dr. Joanna Moncrieff
May 9, 2023
Dr. Joanna Moncrieff, a professor of critical psychiatry and NHS consultant, joins the discussion to challenge the serotonin theory of depression. She highlights the origins of the chemical imbalance belief and its lack of scientific backing. The conversation dives into the historical influence of the pharmaceutical industry on public perceptions of mental health. Additionally, Moncrieff emphasizes the complexity of depression, advocating for individual agency and informed choices over reliance on medication.
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Origins of Chemical Imbalance Theory
- The chemical imbalance theory originated in the 1960s from observations that certain drugs altered mood.
- The pharmaceutical industry promoted the serotonin imbalance story in the 1980s to market SSRIs amidst benzodiazepine backlash.
No Evidence for Serotonin Deficiency
- Reducing brain serotonin, norepinephrine, or dopamine does not produce depression in healthy humans.
- Tryptophan depletion studies fail to show conclusive evidence that serotonin reduction causes depression.
Antidepressants' Delayed Effect Explained
- Antidepressants have a minimal difference from placebo on depression symptom scales.
- The two-week delay in effect likely reflects placebo and psychological changes, not biochemical action.