Understanding Sertraline For Mental Health.

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Balancing Mental Health Benefits and Potential Risks

Disclaimer: This article discusses mental health, antidepressants, and topics such as suicide, which may be distressing for some readers. If you are feeling overwhelmed or unable to cope, please seek immediate support by contacting emergency services, such as A&E (Accident & Emergency) in the UK or the ER (Emergency Room) in the US. You can also reach out to crisis helplines in your area for assistance.

“Should People Be Worried About Taking Sertraline For Mental Health”

Sertraline, a commonly prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is widely used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. While many patients benefit from its use, recent reports have raised concerns about potential risks associated with the medication.

Recent Concerns

In January 2025, The Times reported that Thomas Kingston, son-in-law of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent, died by suicide after being prescribed SSRIs, including sertraline and citalopram, for anxiety. This case is among over 40 Prevention of Future Deaths (PFD) reports where coroners have highlighted issues related to antidepressant use. Concerns include inadequate communication of suicide risks, breaches in prescribing guidelines, and insufficient patient monitoring. Some coroners have suggested implementing more explicit warnings, similar to the “black box” warnings used in the United States, to better inform patients of potential risks. The Times & The Sunday Times

Potential Risks

While SSRIs like sertraline are generally considered safe, they are not without risks (as with all medication, in which you must read the fine print on the leaflet or follow the guidance of your health care professional). The NHS (UK) acknowledges that, although rare, some individuals may experience increased suicidal thoughts, particularly during the initial treatment phase or when dosages are adjusted. This risk is more pronounced in younger populations but can occur in adults as well. The Times & The Sunday Times

Additionally, a 2022 study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry Open found that long-term use of SSRIs may be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular issues. The study reported a 34% higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease and an 87% increased risk of death from heart disease among SSRI users compared to non-users. However, the same study also noted a reduced risk of diabetes and high blood pressure among antidepressant users, indicating a complex relationship between these medications and physical health outcomes. The Telegraph

Expert Recommendations

Medical professionals emphasize the importance of regular reviews for patients on long-term antidepressant therapy. Professor Carmine Pariante from the Royal College of Psychiatrists advises that prolonged use should be reserved for individuals with recurrent depression who experience severe relapses upon discontinuation. He underscores the necessity of balancing potential risks with therapeutic benefits. The Telegraph

Furthermore, experts recommend that patients should not abruptly stop taking sertraline or any antidepressant without consulting their healthcare provider. Sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potential relapse of the underlying mental health condition.

Conclusion

While sertraline has been effective for many in managing mental health conditions, it is essential for patients and healthcare providers to engage in open discussions about potential risks and benefits. Regular monitoring, adherence to prescribing guidelines, and prompt reporting of adverse effects can help mitigate risks. Patients with concerns should consult their healthcare provider to make informed decisions tailored to their individual health needs. From a personal perspective, I have been on sertraline and mirtazapine for several years. Mirtazapine helps me sleep, which is something I struggle with if I do not take this medication. However, sertraline makes me so drowsy that I have trouble waking up at a reasonable hour, and I feel sluggish throughout the day. To counteract this, I often rely on energy drinks to stay awake, which creates a domino effect, causing me to experience an overactive bladder due to the high doses of caffeine. I find myself dependent on the medication to function day and night. Ideally, I would like to be free from prescription drugs, but I understand that to achieve this, I need to address the root causes of my OCD, anxiety, stress, and depression. This journey requires a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, and support to manage these challenges without being reliant on medication. For others in similar situations, seeking professional guidance and exploring a holistic approach may be the first steps toward achieving long-term well-being.

Recent Reports on Antidepressant Risks

• The Times & The Sunday Times
• Type of drug taken by Thomas Kingston flagged 40 times by coroners
• The Times & The Sunday TimesThomas Kingston inquest: wife’s warning over antidepressants
• https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2025/01/15/coroners-issued-40-warnings-antidepressants-thomas-kingston/
• Antidepressant use and risk of cardiovascular outcomes in people aged 20 to 64: cohort study using primary care database | The BMJ
• Professor Carmine Pariante | King’s College London
• https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/category/serotonin-reuptake-inhibitors-ssris/
• https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/category/mental-health-wales/
• https://disabledentrepreneur.uk/category/mental-health-support/