As anxiety and depression continue to affect college students across the country, antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI’s) have become one of the most common forms of treatment. For many people, these medications can be effective in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life. However, healthcare experts and researchers say that students should also understand the potential side effects, limitations and unanswered questions surrounding these medications before beginning treatment.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), SSRIs are commonly prescribed to treat depression and several anxiety disorders by increasing the availability of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood. Medications such as Prozac, Zoloft and Lexapro are among the most frequently prescribed SSRIs.
Mental health concerns have become increasingly common on campuses. A large systematic review published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, which analyzed data from more than 100,000 college students, found that approximately one-third of students experienced symptoms of depression and nearly 40% reported symptoms of anxiety, as reported in the National Library of Medicine. As more students seek treatment, the use has become more common among young adults.
Although SSRIs have helped millions of people manage depression and anxiety, researchers continue to study their long-term effects. A review published in the National Library of Medicine found that many clinical trials have relatively short follow-up periods, making it difficult to determine the long-term effects of antidepressants use after patients discontinue the medication. Researchers concluded that more long-term studies are needed to understand persistent effects and outcomes better.
One area that has received increased attention is withdrawal. According to the American Psychiatric Association and the National Library of Medicine, some individuals experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking SSRIs too quickly. These symptoms may include dizziness, nausea, insomnia, anxiety, mood changes, and a sensation commonly referred to as “brain zaps.” Because of these potential effects, healthcare providers generally recommend gradually tapering the medication under medical supervision instead of stopping it abruptly.
Researchers have also documented sexual side effects associated with SSRs. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration lists decreased libido, delayed orgasm and erectile dysfunction among the possible side effects of several SSRI medications. Scientists are also continuing to investigate post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD), a rare condition in which some sexual side effects may persist after stopping the medication. While research on PSSD is ongoing, experts say more evidence is needed to determine how common the condition is and what causes it.
Another side effect being studied is emotional blunting. According to research published in the National Library of Medicine and other psychiatric journals, some patients report feeling emotionally numb or less able to experience both positive and negative emotions while taking SSRIs. Researchers continue to investigate why emotional blunting occurs and whether certain individuals are more susceptible than others.
For students considering antidepressants, experts emphasize that being informed is an important part of treatment. Understanding both the potential benefits and possible side effects allows patients to have more informed conversations with their healthcare providers. Medication decisions should be based on an individual’s medical history, symptoms and treatment goals rather than on general assumptions or experiences shared by others.
Mental health professionals also stress that antidepressants are not the only form of treatment. Depending on the individual, therapy, lifestyle changes, stress management and support systems may also be important components of a treatment plan. For many people, medication works best when combined with other forms of care.
Ultimately, SSRIs have helped many people successfully manage depression and anxiety. For some, they are an essential part of treatment. At the same time, researchers continue to learn more about their long-term effects and potential side effects. For college students beginning treatment, understanding both the benefits and the risks can help them make informed decisions in partnership with a qualified healthcare provider.
