Do you worry about the effects of long-term use of antidepressants?
Antidepressants, specifically Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), are among the most commonly prescribed medication in the United States. These medications are often prescribed for long-term use, which leads to concerns about long-term side effects.
In a 2016 study through the medical journal Patient Preference and Adherence, it was observed that 30% of individuals taking antidepressants for a long period of time admitted to still having moderate or severe depression. Some of the side effects these individuals also reported were sexual problems (72%), weight gain (65%), feeling emotionally numb (65%), reduced positive feelings (46%), feeling as if they were addicted (43%), and feeling suicidal (36%).
Only 1/5 of the participants reported that antidepressants helped them to function well. However, most said that if they would have known about the long-term side effects, they would never started taking the medication at all.
Neurofeedback is a research proven way to help you improve your brain function through non-intrusive brain training exercises. Neurofeedback is a natural approach to help with depression. If you or anyone you know is suffering with depression, and no longer wishes to be on medication, we can help. To learn more, click here.