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Social Media Fuels Antidepressant Surge in Youth
20 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Antidepressant prescriptions for young people in the UK rose by nearly a third.
- Social media influencers promote antidepressants as lifestyle aids.
- Experts warn of unknown side effects and limited effectiveness.
- 1.8 million people aged 15-29 took antidepressants in England in 2023.
A significant increase in antidepressant prescriptions among young adults, particularly women, is being observed. In England alone, the number of individuals aged 15 to 29 on these medications rose by nearly a third between 2016 and 2023, reaching over 1.8 million. This trend is partly fueled by social media, where influencers often present antidepressants as a desirable lifestyle choice, showcasing them with appealing hashtags and downplaying adverse effects.
However, mental health professionals express concern over this narrative. Studies suggest antidepressants offer only marginal benefits over placebos and can cause side effects such as emotional numbing, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, withdrawal symptoms can be severe, with some users reporting persistent issues even after discontinuing the medication. Experts emphasize that alternatives like talking therapies and exercise exist.
The messaging around antidepressants on platforms like TikTok, with billions of views, creates a misconception that they are a simple, harmless aid for everyday stress. This
