“It’s taken away the most fundamental things about being human”: the lived experience and impact of post-SSRI sexual dysfunction

Brugi, Seraj ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-7247-3462, Budd, Bob ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4272-0312, Mackie, Craig and Fish, Sarah (2026) “It’s taken away the most fundamental things about being human”: the lived experience and impact of post-SSRI sexual dysfunction. International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-being, 21 (1). ISSN 1748-2623

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Abstract

Purpose: It has become increasingly recognized that sexual side effects from serotonergic antidepressants can last long after the medication has been discontinued, but little is known about the lived experience of post-SSRI sexual dysfunction (PSSD) and its impact on people’s identities, relationships, and mental health. This qualitative study aimed to understand the experiences of people living with PSSD in the United Kingdom. Methods: Ten participants were invited to take part in a semi-structured interview, and the data were analysed using an interpretive phenomenological approach. Results: Three themes, encompassing eight subthemes, were identified: (1) distrustful of professionals; (2) a changed me; and (3) living with the impact. The participants discussed their experiences of being dismissed and unheard, feeling emotionally numb, and making sense of the change and losses they have experienced. Implications for clinical practice include the importance of professionals being aware of PSSD and its potential impact. Conclusions: PSSD can affect every aspect of daily life, impacting more than just individuals’ sexual functioning and satisfaction. Further research is needed on effective treatments, including psychological interventions, which can offer meaningful support.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Data availability statement: The data that support the findings of this study are available on request from the corresponding author. The data are not publicly available due to containing information that could compromise the privacy of research participants.
Uncontrolled Keywords:	post-ssri sexual dysfunction,pssd,selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors,ssris,sexual side effects,lived experience,sdg 3 - good health and well-being ,/dk/atira/pure/sustainabledevelopmentgoals/good_health_and_well_being
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Depositing User:	LivePure Connector
Date Deposited:	14 Aug 2026 13:50
Last Modified:	16 Aug 2026 05:36
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/104144
DOI:	10.1080/17482631.2026.2717470

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