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Anxiety Meds Surge: 38 Million Americans Now Taking Them
23 Feb
Summary
- Anxiety medication use jumped to 14.3% of US adults in 2024.
- SSRI critics claim harm, while doctors affirm their safety.
- Young adults and LGBTQ+ individuals show sharp increases in use.
The number of American adults using anxiety medications has risen substantially, with 14.3% reporting use in 2024, an increase from 11.7% in 2019. This trend, largely fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic, has brought the total to roughly 38 million individuals. Significant growth in usage is observed among young adults, those with college degrees, and individuals identifying as LGBTQ+.
While psychiatric medications like SSRIs gain acceptance, they face criticism from some who claim they are harmful. Health officials have raised concerns about SSRI links to violent behavior and adverse birth outcomes. However, medical professionals assert that SSRIs, such as Prozac and Lexapro, are safe and effective front-line treatments for anxiety disorders, with benefits often outweighing mild side effects.
Alternative treatments like talk therapy and lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, are also encouraged. Benzodiazepines, while effective for short-term anxiety, carry habit-forming risks. Beta-blockers are also used off-label for acute anxiety. The rise in medication use is attributed to factors like social media, isolation, economic uncertainty, and increased access via telehealth.
