Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction
Advance PSSD research
The PSSD Institute is an independent nonprofit organization committed to advancing understanding of Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction (PSSD). Through rigorous science, collaborative partnerships, and public education, we work to address one of the most overlooked adverse effects in modern medicine.
Education, advocacy & research for everyone affected by PSSD.
What is Post SSRI Sexual Dysfunction?
Post-SSRI Sexual Dysfunction (PSSD) is a persistent condition where sexual and other adverse effects from antidepressant medications continue even after discontinuing the medication.
While adverse effects during SSRI treatment are well-documented, PSSD represents cases where adverse symptoms persist for years or decades after stopping the medication. PSSD symptoms may first occur during treatment or at withdrawal of treatment. You can learn more about PSSD here.
Learn more about PSSDThe Challenge
PSSD remains poorly understood in terms of its underlying mechanisms, prevalence, and treatment options. Many healthcare providers are unaware of the condition, leading to underdiagnosis and limited support for affected individuals. The lack of research funding has hindered progress in understanding this condition and developing effective treatments.
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Symptoms of PSSD
PSSD affects far more than sexual function. Commonly reported symptoms include:
Sexual Symptoms*
- Reduced or absent sexual desire (libido)
- Difficulty achieving arousal
- Erectile dysfunction or reduced vaginal lubrication
- Delayed, muted, or absent orgasm
- Reduced genital sensitivity
- Loss of sexual pleasure (anhedonia)
Non-Sexual Symptoms*
- Emotional blunting or numbness
- Loss of ability to feel pleasure (anhedonia)
- Cognitive difficulties, including "brain fog"
- Memory impairment
- Reduced emotional range and intensity
- Loss of romantic feelings or ability to "fall in love"
- Loss love towards family, friends, and pets
* include but are not limited to
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Trusted information for patients, families, clinicians, researchers and journalists.
Latest Research & Updates
~13%
of former antidepressant users reported persistent genital numbness – compared with around 1% of people who had taken other psychiatric medications.2024 cross-sectional study
1 in 216
estimated risk of PSSD among patients who took serotonergic antidepressants – likely a conservative estimate.Ben-Sheetrit et al., 2023
23 yrs
the longest documented case of PSSD. There is currently no known cure or treatment.Chinchilla Alfaro et al., 2022
A 2024 cross‑sectional study found that about 13% of former antidepressant users reported persistent genital numbness (a primary and unique symptom of PSSD) compared with around 1% of people who had taken other psychiatric medications.
Some drug leaflets have been updated in Europe and North America acknowledging that sexual dysfunction symptoms may persist, but much remains unknown and more research is urgently needed.
Learn more about our researchStatement · November 2025
Our Response to The New York Times Magazine Investigation on PSSD