America's Sex - Killing Drugs

I. The Prevalence and Misuse of Antidepressants

Approximately 41 million US adults encounter challenges in their sexual function as a consequence of a particular class of commonly prescribed drugs. Nearly 41 million individuals, constituting around 16% of the US population, are currently on antidepressant medications. The question that arises is: Are we truly in such a state of widespread depression?

A study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics revealed that up to 40% of antidepressant users may not actually require these drugs. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM - 5), which serves as the handbook for classifying mental disorders, now defines major depression based on symptoms such as sadness or fatigue persisting for two weeks. The issue here is that this threshold encompasses normal human experiences, including sleep deprivation and stress, rather than solely pathological conditions.

Adding to this problem is the aggressive marketing by pharmaceutical companies, which, peculiarly, is legal in the United States. Moreover, 60 - 70% of antidepressants are prescribed by primary care doctors, not mental health specialists. The situation worsens when considering that, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), over 80% of the guideline authors for depression treatment have connections with Big Pharma. The outcome is that a significant number of people are using antidepressants who perhaps should not be.

II. Sexual Dysfunction Caused by Antidepressants

A. Side Effects on Sexual Health

Antidepressants, especially Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) like Zoloft, Prozac, Lexapro, and Serotonin - Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs), have a profound impact on sexual health. The following are some common side - effects within this drug class:

1. For Men

2. A decreased sex drive affects 30 - 60% of male users of these drugs.

3. Erectile dysfunction (ED) impacts 20 - 50% of men.

4. Delayed ejaculation, or difficulty achieving orgasm, is reported by 30 - 70% of men.

5. For Women

6. Reduced sexual desire is reported by 30 - 70% of women taking SSRIs/SNRIs.

7. Difficulty with physical arousal (both desire and lubrication) affects 20 - 40% of women.

8. Delayed orgasm or anorgasmia (inability to orgasm) occurs in 25 - 50% of women.

B. The Role of Serotonin

Antidepressants cause these sexual - related issues for multiple reasons, with the most significant being related to serotonin. SSRIs and SNRIs increase serotonin levels. However, this can suppress dopamine activity, which is a crucial factor in libido, reward, desire, and arousal, thereby dampening sexual desire and arousal. It is paradoxical that serotonin, often referred to as the "happy hormone," can, at high levels, suppress dopamine and reduce sexual drive. This is particularly prominent with SSRIs as they flood the system without discrimination. In contrast, natural serotonin boosts from certain supplements or diet do not reach the same critical level.

III. Natural Mood Boosters

A. The Need for Alternative Approaches

While some individuals, such as those with rare genetic mutations or variations, may genuinely require antidepressants, all available evidence indicates rampant misdiagnosis and over - prescribing for the majority of others. Up to 40% of antidepressant users may not need these potent drugs and could instead be experiencing common nutritional deficiencies that affect their mood. It is advisable to address these deficiencies first before resorting to prescription medications. The following are key natural mood boosters:

1. Omega - 3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)

A 2019 meta - analysis in Translational Psychiatry demonstrated that a daily intake of 1 - 2 grams of fish oil reduced depressive symptoms. The anti - inflammatory properties of fish oil enhance brain cell function and mood regulation. Another study in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that 4 grams were effective in treating resistant depression. Although some skeptics argue that this only benefits people with omega - 3 deficiencies, research shows that this accounts for 68 - 90% of the population.

Recommendation: Consume 4.2 mg of fish oil daily, which is equivalent to three softgels of Flameout DHA - Rich Fish Oil (available for purchase on Amazon). Based on clinical studies, relief from depression may start as early as 2 - 4 weeks. For severe and persistent cases, it may take up to 12 weeks.

1. Vitamin D3

A 2020 meta - analysis in Depression and Anxiety indicated that a daily intake of 2,000 - 10,000 International Units (IU) improved depression scores in individuals with low vitamin D levels, which is the case for most Americans. Vitamin D appears to act through serotonin synthesis and is particularly effective for seasonal depression (Seasonal Affective Disorder - SAD).

Recommendation: Take 5000 IU of microencapsulated vitamin D (for better absorption) daily. Some treatment protocols involve taking 15 - 20,000 IU daily for a few weeks, followed by a reduction. D Fix High Absorption Vitamin D (available on Amazon) contains 5000 IU of this form. Additionally, recent research has uncovered the depression - fighting benefits of lycopene.

IV. Cautionary Note

It is essential to recognize that severe depression is a serious medical condition. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your doctor before making any decisions regarding discontinuing your medications.