Long-term antidepressant use grows in Australia, especially among young people, with off-label prescribing raising safety concerns

Long-term antidepressant use has significantly increased in Australia, particularly among young people aged 10-24. The study found an 110% rise in long-term use and treatment duration for this age group, with increased off-label prescribing for sleep and pain. Concerns are raised about potential withdrawal symptoms, adverse effects, and the medicalization of life problems rather than addressing underlying causes.