Research from Oxford University published in the Lancet has found that a further one million people might benefit from anti-depressant use. 

Scientists reviewed data from 522 trials, involving 116,000 patients, and found that every one of the 21 antidepressants used was more effective than a placebo. 

However, the review 'excluded trials where over 20 percent of the sample group had treatment-resistant depression'.

The research represents a valuable contribution to the understanding of antidepressant effectiveness and an importance source of reassurance and hope to many.

Many people living with depression follow or promote alternatives approaches.

Prescriptions for 64.7m antidepressants were dispensed in England in 2016.

Almost two-thirds (60 percent) of people taking antidepressants feel the medication affects at least one of five key areas of their lives: their sex life; work or study; social life; close relationships; and independence.

Reaction

Royal College of GPs: “Depression is a significant mental illness which, if left untreated or unmanaged, can cause a huge amount of distress for a patient, their family and friends. It should never be swept under the carpet or ignored.”

[Negative portrayal of anti-depressant use] can in itself can add to the unfortunate stigma that sometimes exists around people with mental health conditions."

Rethink Mental Illness: "We have seen for a long time how effective antidepressants can be for some people, so it is encouraging to see such a large scale study confirming how these treatments can help.

"However we also know from our advice services that antidepressants aren't for everyone and not everyone finds them helpful. It is important that we keep researching and finding new treatments."

"Equally it is vital that everyone seeking treatment is able to access the full range of options, for example talking therapies. Currently our overstretched and underfunded mental health services mean that prescriptions are often the only option available and too many people aren't getting the right treatment for them."