Common Antidepressants Linked to Silent Brain Damage

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted April 9, 2025

If you’re among the millions taking prescription antidepressants, I have some concerning news.

A major study has uncovered a disturbing link between common antidepressants and a growing brain problem.

And if you’re taking an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), you may find yourself in the crosshairs.

Swedish researchers recently uncovered this troubling connection. They found that dementia patients taking SSRIs suffered a significantly faster decline in brain function than those not given the drugs.

And these aren’t obscure medications. SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants, with an estimated 16.9 million patients currently taking them in the USA alone.

They tracked cognitive scores (out of 30 points) and found that patients on SSRIs saw their scores decrease by an extra 0.3 points PER YEAR compared to those not being treated for depression.

It might not sound like much—but over time, this decline could seriously impact your quality of life and independence.

But the bad news doesn’t stop there.

The study, published in the journal BMC Medicine, also linked antidepressants to a seven percent higher risk of death and an 18 percent higher risk of fractures.

These are links, and don’t prove cause and effect… YET. But this finding adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting we should be much more cautious about prescribing these medications, especially to older adults or those already experiencing cognitive issues.

Dementia cases are already rising—and research suggests they’ll double in the coming decades, with estimates suggesting a doubling of cases in the US by 2060.

In other words, this accelerated decline could affect a LOT of folks in the coming years.

Of course, depression itself is a serious condition that needs appropriate treatment. But this study raises important questions about whether the standard drug approach is always the best option, especially for patients with, or at risk for, dementia.

If you’re struggling with depression, particularly if you’re concerned about cognitive health, discuss these alternatives with your doctor:

• Talk therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, can be highly effective—without medication side effects.
• Studies show regular physical exercise can be as effective as antidepressants for mild to moderate depression.
• Dietary changes focused on anti-inflammatory foods such as fatty fish, olive oil, berries, leafy greens, and omega-3 fatty acids can help stabilize mood and reduce symptoms.
• Research shows mindfulness meditation (paying attention to the present moment – more here) and stress reduction techniques can reduce depressive symptoms and prevent relapse.
• Social connection and community involvement are crucial for mental health, and research shows they can significantly reduce the risk and severity of depression.

Remember, if you’re currently taking an antidepressant, never stop taking it abruptly without medical supervision. These medications typically require careful tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

The bottom line is your mental health is too important to leave entirely up to prescription pad medicine. While drugs have their place, this research reminds us that natural approaches can be highly effective without the risks.

P.S. Shedding new light on depression with this simple “sunlight” hack.

Source:
Mo, M., Abzhandadze, T., Hoang, M.T. et al. Antidepressant use and cognitive decline in patients with dementia: a national cohort study. BMC Med 23, 82 (2025).

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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