In this episode, Dr. Jessica Steier and Dr. Sarah Scheinman welcome neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein to explore the complex world of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The scientists examine how these medications work in the brain, addressing both the supporting evidence for their effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety as well as ongoing controversies in the field. They discuss potential side effects, discontinuation symptoms, and the importance of individualized approaches to medication. The conversation also addresses common misconceptions about SSRIs, including alleged links to violence and cognitive decline, while emphasizing critical evaluation of scientific research on these medications. Throughout the episode, the experts provide a balanced perspective on SSRIs' role in mental health treatment, offering listeners valuable insights into making informed decisions about these widely prescribed medications. (00:00) Intro (05:30) Understanding the Mechanism of SSRIs (11:07) Controversies Surrounding SSRIs (14:39) Evidence Supporting SSRIs for Depression and Anxiety (18:40) Side Effects and Withdrawal from SSRIs (21:19) The Impact of SSRIs on Mental Health (24:33) Understanding SSRI Withdrawal Symptoms (27:31) Debunking Myths: SSRIs and Violence (31:20) SSRIs and Depression: A Complex Relationship (34:32) SSRIs and Cognitive Decline in Dementia (39:42) The Science Behind SSRIs (42:06) Critical Thinking in Science (44:33) The Role of PhDs vs. MDs in Mental Health https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db377.htm https://bmcmedicine.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12916-025-03851-3 https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/1/30/fact-check-rfk-jrs-statements-during-senate-confirmation-hearing https://autisticadvocacy.org/2025/02/asan-disappointed-by-robert-f-kennedy-jr-s-confirmation-to-lead-hhs/ https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2000804117 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4975858 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30479005/ https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/wps.20701 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41386-021-01179-z ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Interested in advertising with us? Please reach out to advertising@airwavemedia.com, with “Unbiased Science” in the subject line. PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals. Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual. As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional. If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance. The information provided herein do not represent the views of our employers.