Joanna Moncrieff
Professor of Critical and Social Psychiatry at University College London and consultant psychiatrist for the NHS. Author of the book, Chemically Imbalanced: The Making and Unmaking of the Serotonin Myth.
Top 3 podcasts with Joanna Moncrieff
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Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 56min
Rethinking Mental Health: What The Science Actually Says About Depression, The Side Effects of Antidepressants & Finding Balance with Professor Joanna Moncrieff #563
Joanna Moncrieff, a leading figure in Critical and Social Psychiatry, dives deep into the misconceptions surrounding depression and antidepressants. She challenges the popular chemical imbalance theory, suggesting it lacks robust scientific backing. The discussion uncovers the minimal differences between antidepressants and placebos and critiques the subjective nature of depression diagnosis. Moncrieff also highlights the often-overlooked side effects of SSRIs, such as emotional numbness and sexual dysfunction, urging a more nuanced understanding of mental health treatments.
Jan 31, 2025 • 1h 3min
E109 - Is Depression a Medical Illness? (w/ Prof. Joanna Moncrieff)
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.
May 9, 2023 • 1h 1min
RHR: Reviewing the Evidence on the Serotonin Theory of Depression, with Dr. Joanna Moncrieff
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.
