Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction
As someone dating in their 20s, it is getting hard to find people who aren’t having SSRI-related dysfunction. Recently met an older (early 30s guy) and it was seriously cool having a sexual experience that didn’t end with “don’t bother I’m just not going to finish no matter how long we go.” They really seem to be handing out these serious, almost-impossible-to-withdraw medications like candy on Halloween.<p>They don’t actually solve the problem long term, you can’t really come off them ever (I know a lot of people who have tried; only one who succeeded and they were on an exceedingly low dose to begin with - it took six months before the frightening neurological symptoms subsided), and they permanently damage ability to have human connection (I don’t understand how that doesn’t worsen depression and anxiety long term).<p>I get that I’m the asshole for suggesting that people take a second look at the side effect profile and consider whether these might be overprescribed. I get that they do make life better overall for some people. I’ve also seen my friends become psychotic and ruin their lives when they try to get off them (because the sexual side effects and weight gain were unbearable). So IDK, it feels urgent enough to raise as a concern. Especially when so many people are taking them.<p>I see a lot of people given SSRIs for anxiety that could probably be better treated by e.g. not smoking so much weed. It is hard to manage the underlying factors that drive people to alcohol and drug use, but I think probably easier than being rendered impotent by SSRIs.<p>I get that seemingly everyone is depressed these days, but I really question giving SSRIs, which have poor efficacy and devastating side effects, before demanding lifestyle change. Walking 10k steps and CBT are useful interventions that can be easily monitored by physicians with modern technology.<p>I guess good for half the 20-something cohort for not being able to orgasm really ever, but it’s not great for building the physical aspect of human connection, which I maintain is important. IDK what society looks like when half the prime age population isn’t able to have a fulfilling or enjoyable sex life.