#814 - Doctor Mike - Reacting To The Rise Of Anxiety, Microplastics & Antidepressants
Modern Wisdom
Discussion on SSRIs and Misinformation
SSRIs are commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, but not for every patient. There is stigma and misinformation surrounding SSRIs, with some misconceptions about their mechanism of action. Initially thought to work by increasing serotonin levels, it is now theorized that SSRIs may actually downregulate the body's response to serotonin over time. It is important to be honest about our knowledge of how SSRIs work and acknowledge that scientific understanding evolves. Misinformation can have serious consequences, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic when early messaging about mask-wearing changed over time, leading to confusion and distrust. Both medical professionals and the public need to understand and accept that science is dynamic, and recommendations can change as new information emerges.
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