CSAP has issued the following statement.
About Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Mass Violence
Statement on Recent Federal Claims
The California State Association of Psychiatrists (CSAP) wants to speak directly to Californians about recent claims by the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services suggesting that antidepressant medications, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), are linked to mass shootings. This is simply not true. What worries us most is that such statements can scare people away from getting the care they need and deserve.
Depression and anxiety are real illnesses that can take an enormous toll on people’s lives. When left untreated, they can cause deep suffering, lost opportunities, and put lives at risk. Decades of research show that psychiatric medications such as SSRIs are overall safe and effective. For many people, medications like SSRIs are a lifeline—helping them feel more like themselves, reconnect with loved ones, and move forward with hope.
If you or someone you care about is struggling, please know you are not alone. Talk with a doctor or mental health provider you trust. Treatment is not one-size-fits-all, and the best approach is always built together, with compassion and respect for your unique needs.
As psychiatrists, our mission is to support healing, reduce stigma, and stand up against harmful misinformation. Mental health care should never be something to fear. It should be a doorway to safety and dignity.
The California State Association of Psychiatrists will continue to serve as a voice of reason and compassion for our community.