Do SSRIs Really Work? Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate with Dr Ferghal Armstrong

Do SSRIs Really Work? Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate with Dr Ferghal Armstrong

Do SSRIs Really Work? Understanding Depression Treatment and the Serotonin Debate.Are you wondering how SSRIs work for depression treatment or if they’re right for your mental health? Join Dr. Ferghal Armstrong on Cracking Addiction for a myth-busting dive into selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, the cornerstone antidepressants for mood disorders like severe depression, mild depression, and moderate depression. This episode unpacks the science behind SSRIs, from the chemical imbalance theory of serotonin to the modern role of neuroplasticity in reshaping brain pathways.Dr. Armstrong explains what do SSRIs do, revealing why antidepressant efficacy isn’t instant—those crucial 4-8 weeks are about brain adaptation, not just a serotonin boost. He breaks down clinical trials, showing where SSRIs outperform the placebo effect and where they fall short, especially for mild depression. With antidepressant controversy swirling, learn why side effects like lethargy or emotional numbness affect many, and why only about half of patients see success, highlighting the need for personalized medicine.This video is essential for anyone navigating depression treatment, supporting loved ones, or prescribing antidepressants as clinicians. Dr. Armstrong explores how therapy options and the therapeutic setting amplify results, while the placebo effect can rival SSRIs in some cases. He tackles real-world challenges, from varying response rates to the push for mental health awareness in choosing the right path.Don’t miss this honest look at SSRIs—their strengths, limits, and role in mental health. Dr. Armstrong’s evidence-based insights from clinical trials empower you to make informed decisions about mood disorders and therapy options. Hit play for trustworthy answers and a fresh perspective on the antidepressant controversy!Chapters00:00:00 Introduction: SSRIs and the Mystery of How They Work00:00:41 How SSRIs Affect Serotonin in the Brain00:01:19 Challenging the Chemical Imbalance Theory00:02:09 Do SSRIs Actually Work? Examining the Evidence00:02:53 The Placebo Effect and Study Limitations00:03:31 Real World Response Rates and What They Mean00:04:05 Clinical Judgment and Finding the Right Treatment00:04:44 Setting Realistic Expectations: SSRIs Are Not Magic Bullets00:05:11 Conclusion: The Evolving Science and Role of SSRIs in Depression

Episoder(218)

An Introduction to Opioids

An Introduction to Opioids

In this episode of Cracking Addiction we provide an introduction to opioids, how they work what receptors they act upon and some of the harms associated with opioids.

6 Okt 202113min

Alcohol Use Disorder Summary Points

Alcohol Use Disorder Summary Points

In this episode of Cracking Addiction we summarise the previous episodes detailing alcohol use disorder, alcohol withdrawal management, rationale for anti-craving medications and how to assist our patients in a safe, ethical and humane manner.

29 Sep 202122min

Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery

Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART Recovery

In this episode of Cracking Addiction we discuss both Alcoholics Anonymous and SMART recovery programs and review the evidence base behind each of these interventions and how to help patients choose the best behavioural management program to help manage relapse prevention.

22 Sep 202122min

Alcohol Anti-Craving Medications

Alcohol Anti-Craving Medications

In this episode of Cracking Addiction we explore the common anti-craving medications used in alcohol use disorder and explain what the choices are, what the indications for these medications are, how they work as well as the common side effects and interactions.Blog available

15 Sep 202125min

Residential alcohol withdrawal management

Residential alcohol withdrawal management

In this episode of Cracking Addiction we explore the intricacies of residential or inpatient alcohol withdrawal management including how to manage patients in a residential setting, complications that can arise and how to management then during alcohol withdrawal, medications and potential dosages of medications uses as well as how to manage patients with pre-existing medical and psychiatric comorbidities.

8 Sep 202120min

Home Based Residential Withdrawal

Home Based Residential Withdrawal

The safe management of alcohol withdrawal is a fundamental skill that medical practitioners should be aware to perform. It is a protocol driven management and needs to be to ensure patient safety. In this episode of Cracking Addiction we explore home based or outpatient alcohol withdrawal and how to select the appropriate people for home based alcohol withdrawal management, how to manage the withdrawal symptoms and how to safely follow up patients.

1 Sep 202121min

The physiology of alcohol withdrawal

The physiology of alcohol withdrawal

Chronic alcohol use can lead to physical dependence. In this episode of Cracking Addiction we talk about the physiology of alcohol withdrawal, complications of alcohol withdrawal including delirium tremens and Wernicke’s encephalopathy and we discuss some of the simple interventions that can be used to guard against these complications

25 Aug 202117min

Alcohol Consumption Pt2

Alcohol Consumption Pt2

In this episode of Cracking Addiction, we continue our deep dive into alcohol. We define alcohol use disorder, the definitions of dependence and addiction, the harms related to alcohol and the natural progression of alcohol use disorder and how to screen for people who might be at risk of alcohol use disorder and the importance of brief interventions.

18 Aug 202117min

Populært innen Helse

fastlegen
rss-gukild-johaug
hvordan-har-du-det-mann
relasjonspodden-med-dora-thorhallsdottir-kjersti-idem
leger-om-livet
psykodrama
lydartikler-fra-aftenposten
fryktlos
rss-garne-damer
baarli-og-benjamin-gar-i-terapi
kommentarer-fra-aftenposten
foreldreradet
morten-ramm-lar-kakla-ga-til-du-sovner
rss-puppen-og-lillemor
rss-baarli-og-benjamin-gar-i-terapi
bak-fasaden-en-reise-i-livet-med-sykepleier-ine
hormonelle-frida
klimaks
rss-femihelse
rss-kunsten-a-leve