MISSD

01/24/2026

Scotland just launched its Su***de Prevention Action Plan with increased funding and a focus on early intervention. But one preventable driver of su***de is missing entirely: akathisia. Akathisia is a medication-induced disorder that can cause self harm, violence, and su***de. Many types of drugs prescribed for various ailments, from acne to asthma to depression and hair loss, are associated with akathisia. Akathisia awareness and training should be part of every su***de prevention plan.

MISSD provides free akathisia education and podcasts to improve understanding and awareness before it's too late.

New Su***de Prevention Action Plan published

01/20/2026

This new research reminds us that not every human experience — like grief — should be medicalized or treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. At MISSD, we see similar issues when medication risks like akathisia are not fully explained, recognized, or monitored, leading to med-induced suffering that could have been prevented.

Grief has long been understood as a normal and healthy response to loss. However, over the past decade, American psychiatry has rebranded that time of New research finds most bereaved people reject psychiatric grief diagnoses, viewing grief as a normal expression of love rather than mental "illness....

01/12/2026

A large Canadian study is raising important questions about the mental health adverse effects of commonly prescribed blood pressure medications.

Researchers found that adults aged 66 and older who were prescribed angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) had a higher risk of su***de compared with those taking ACE inhibitors.

The findings highlight a critical issue: medications can cause akathisia, and affect mood and behavior, and these effects are often overlooked—especially in older adults.

Effective su***de prevention must include medication safety, informed prescribing, and close monitoring after medication changes.

A commonly prescribed class of blood pressure medications may be associated with a higher risk of su***de among older adults.

01/08/2026

This timely article reminds us of a conversation we had at our last conference: One of the attendees who worked in the construction industry informed us that the rates of su***de in the construction industry were unusually high. She also noted that many construction industry workers are also veterans.

The death of TJ Kimball was a private tragedy that underscores a widespread risk in the stressful field.

01/05/2026

The Philippine Psychiatric Association cautioned against linking antidepressants to su***de following reports that former DPWH Undersecretary Maria Catalina Cabral had citalopram (an SSRI) in her system. Authorities are treating her December 19, 2025 death as su***de, with no evidence of foul play, while the investigation continues.

MISSD emphasizes transparency about known medication risks. All SSRIs carry an FDA black box warning for increased suicidality, particularly during treatment initiation or dose changes. Akathisia—severe medication-induced restlessness—remains underrecognized and can contribute to suicidal crises.

We extend our condolences to Ms. Cabral’s family. Learn more and share educational resources at missd.co. https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2025/12/30/2497741/psychiatrists-warn-against-linking-antidepressants-su***de

Reckless speculation linking antidepressants to su***de risk distorts public understanding of mental health and may only drive people away from seeking treatment, the Philippine Psychiatric Association warned in a statement addressing recent public discourse on mental health medications. 

12/31/2025

As 2025 comes to a close, we're sincerely grateful to everyone who supported our mission. MISSD's awareness, education, and prevention efforts reached national and global communities — and we’re moving forward with big goals for 2026.
If you’re still considering an end-of-year, tax-deductible gift, there’s still time. Your support helps make this vital work possible.

12/26/2025

It's not too late to support our work with a 2025 tax-deductible gift at https://missd.co/.

12/18/2025

MISSD wishes a happy Hanukkah to all who celebrate. As families and communities gather together, we honor the resilience, hope, and courage that this holiday represents.
Chag Sameach!

12/11/2025

Good to see the New York Times highlights some SSRI side effects such as weight gain and blood-pressure changes, and even mentions withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or “brain zaps” — all real and challenging for many people.
But it's disappointing that the article fails to address other serious withdrawal effects like akathisia, extreme anxiety, suicidality, and su***de — symptoms many experience and struggle to understand.
The Times missed an opportunity to truly help those suffering from SSRI withdrawal and withdrawal akathisia.

Clinical guidelines are vague, so we asked psychiatrists what to consider when deciding whether to continue taking these medications.

12/08/2025

Natalie would celebrate her 32nd birthday today if not for misguided prescribing and mistreated akathisia. We've worked hard for more than a decade to ensure others are better informed, and will continue doing so. Our Akathisia Stories podcast shares real experiences. Full episode at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdTzi7_SoMY&t=9s

12/04/2025

Important Safety Update on Ozempic-Style Medications

Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration just issued an updated warning for GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, Trulicity, and Mounjaro. The alert highlights possible risks of suicidal thoughts, worsening depression, and unusual mood changes in some users.

These reports remind us of important info MISSD works hard to promote:
➡️ Medication-induced symptoms—especially akathisia—can be misdiagnosed or missed entirely.
➡️ Early recognition and accurate risk communication saves lives.

If you or someone you love is taking a GLP-1 med:
• Watch for any sudden mood or behavior changes.
• Contact your provider right away if something feels off and specifically mention you might be suffering from akathisia.

Regulatory Update on Ozempic-Style Drugs and Mental Health Risks Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued an updated safety warning

12/02/2025

We appreciate our supporters on Giving Tuesday -- and every day.

Email from MISSD Your support allows MISSD to bring vital education and awareness to the people who need it most.   --In the news-------CEU Program-------Donate-------Share your story------Visit YouTu