Debunking RFK Jr. Myths About Antidepressants

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the newly confirmed Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS), has recently made headlines by raising concerns about the safety and efficacy of antidepressants like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

During public appearances and interviews, he has suggested that these medications may be linked to acts of violence, addiction, and other harmful outcomes. Such statements have fueled debates about mental health treatments, but they also risk spreading misinformation that can discourage people from seeking help.

This blog will unpack and debunk some of the most common myths about antidepressants, specifically SSRIs—including those brought into the spotlight by Kennedy—with evidence-based facts to separate truth from speculation.

But before we address the myths about antidepressants, it’s important to understand what SSRIs are and the role they play in mental health treatment.

What Are SSRIs, and What Are They Used For?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of medications primarily used to treat mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and panic disorder. They work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, in the brain.

By preventing the reabsorption (or “reuptake”) of serotonin into nerve cells, SSRIs help maintain higher levels of this chemical in the brain, which can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. SSRIs are often prescribed because they are generally well-tolerated, have fewer side effects compared to older antidepressants, and have a long track record of effectiveness for many individuals.

Some of the most commonly prescribed SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), escitalopram (Lexapro), and paroxetine (Paxil). While SSRIs are not a one-size-fits-all solution, they are a critical component of mental health care for millions of people worldwide. Combined with psychotherapy and other treatments, SSRIs can help individuals achieve significant improvements in their mental health and quality of life.

Myths About Antidepressants 1: SSRIs Make People Violent and Are Linked to School Shootings

Fact:

A damaging myth about SSRIs is that they contribute to violent behavior, including school shootings. This belief gained renewed attention in 2023 when Robert F. Kennedy Jr. claimed during a livestream that antidepressants are linked to school shootings. He suggested there was “tremendous circumstantial evidence” supporting this claim. However, evidence does not support such assertions.

A comprehensive review of school shootings from 2000 to 2017, based on FBI reports¹, found that most perpetrators were neither prescribed psychotropic medications nor diagnosed with a mental health condition. The notion that SSRIs are a driving factor in these tragedies is unfounded.

Violence is a complex phenomenon with social, familial, and environmental factors playing significant roles. Focusing on SSRIs detracts from addressing these broader systemic issues. When prescribed correctly, SSRIs are a valuable tool for managing mental health conditions—not a catalyst for violence.

Myths About Antidepressants 2: People on SSRIs Are ‘Addicts’ Who Are Dependent on the Medication

Fact:

Recently, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made the controversial claim that SSRIs are more addictive than heroin. This statement is misleading. SSRIs do not cause the compulsive behaviors or physical dependency associated with true addiction.

Unlike substances that create cravings or euphoria, SSRIs work by balancing serotonin in the brain, improving mood, and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. They do not cause addiction.²

While some individuals may experience mild withdrawal-like symptoms, such as dizziness or flu-like feelings, if they stop taking SSRIs abruptly, this is not the same as addiction. These symptoms are temporary and manageable with the guidance of a healthcare provider. Gradually tapering off SSRIs ensures a smooth transition.

Myths About Antidepressants 3: SSRIs Are Overprescribed and Given to Anyone Who Is ‘Just a Little Sad’

Fact:

The perception that SSRIs are overprescribed to individuals experiencing mild sadness oversimplifies their use. SSRIs are prescribed after careful evaluation by a healthcare provider. They are specifically recommended for moderate to severe depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other serious mental health conditions.

The decision to prescribe SSRIs considers multiple factors, including symptom severity, mental health history, and potential side effects. SSRIs are often part of a broader treatment plan that may include psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, offering a well-rounded approach to care.

Myths About Antidepressants 4: Wellness Farms Are a Proven Treatment for Depression

Fact:

While wellness farms can offer supplemental benefits—such as spending time in nature, interacting with animals, fostering community, reducing isolation, and promoting a sense of fulfillment—they are not sufficient as standalone treatments for depression.

For individuals dealing with moderate to severe symptoms, evidence-based interventions such as psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and antidepressant medications remain the cornerstone of treatment.4

Wellness farms can play a valuable complementary role in a broader mental health strategy, particularly for those who respond well to holistic approaches. However, they should not be relied upon as a primary or proven intervention for depression.

In Conclusion

Debunking myths about antidepressants, particularly SSRIs, is essential to reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek effective mental health treatment. While misinformation can perpetuate harmful stereotypes, evidence shows that SSRIs are safe, effective, and a vital part of comprehensive mental health care. If you have concerns about SSRIs or other treatments, consult a trusted medical professional for personalized advice.

Reviewed by: Supervisor of Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners Dr. Monica Conn, PMHNP, CRNP. 

References:

¹ Chaloner, R., Hall, W., Friedman, S. H., et al. (2019). The myth of school shooters and psychotropic medications. Behav Sci Law, 37(5), 540-558. DOI: 10.1002/bsl.2429

² Haddad, P. (1999). Do antidepressants have any potential to cause addiction? Journal of Psychopharmacology, 13(3), 300-307. https://doi.org/10.1177/026988119901300321

³American Psychiatric Association, Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Major Depressive Disorder, Third Edition.

4 The impact of care farms on quality of life, depression, and anxiety among different population groups: A systematic review, Campbell Systematic Reviews, November 26, 2019.