Antidepressant Market Overdue for an Overhaul

Mental health is on the decline all over the world.

Nearly 264 million people are struggling with depression, for example.  While some of us are better at hiding our depression than others, it can be a real struggle, especially with the potential anxiety, irritability, and hopelessness.  Robin Williams for example, spent his life making people laugh themselves silly, while dealing with issues of severe depression. A dear friend of mine who always has a smile on her face in public, often wants to be left alone, struggling with depression for years.

Many even “put on a face” so others aren’t aware of how they really feel.

It’s not fun.  It’s not easy.

In addition, it often gets old telling people, “I’m okay,” when we’re not.

To help alleviate the symptoms of depression, many turn to anti-depressants such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). (Source 4) In fact, about 13% of Americans age 12+ are currently on medications to help reduce those symptoms. (Source 4) Problem is — SSRIs aren’t always useful, focusing more on symptom suppression than root cause.

Making matters worse, over the last 20 years, we’ve seen very little innovation with SSRIs.

According to The Guardian, “The number of psychopharmacological drugs research programs in larger drug firms has shrunk by 70% in the past decade.”

“In general the larger companies have walked away from psychiatry,” they noted. “There are a few companies who have maintained efforts in the area but 70% tells you it’s been a pretty remarkable departure. Many withdrew from neuroscience entirely.” (Source 5)

Of course, that needs to change.

That being said, the pharmaceutical industry is overdue for a massive, game-changing revolution when it comes to mental health care.  Fortunately, the revolution has already begun with the help of psychedelics.