Antidepressants and the Suicide Rate: is There Really a Connection?

The authors re-investigate whether the observed reduction in suicide rates during the 1990s can be explained by the increase in the prescription of antidepressants. After controlling for other covariates, observed as well as unobserved, that might affect the suicide rate they find, overall, no statistically significant effects from antidepressants on the suicide rate. Where they do find significant effects, they are positive & for young persons. Implications for policy are discussed. (17 refs)