Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced an investigation into whether psychiatric medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be connected to violent acts such as mass shootings. The move comes after a recent school shooting at Annunciation Catholic School, where 21-year-old Robin Westman, a transgender individual, opened fire during the first Mass of the year.
During an appearance on Fox News, RFK Jr. described mass shootings as a “health crisis” and emphasized the need to examine the role of psychiatric drugs in escalating violence. He cited concerns about SSRIs, which are commonly prescribed for depression but carry warnings about potential side effects such as suicidal or homicidal thoughts. Over 30 million Americans are currently taking antidepressants, with SSRIs being among the most frequently prescribed medications.
RFK Jr. noted that his department is launching studies to explore whether drugs taken during gender transition processes could contribute to violent behavior. He referenced another recent school shooting involving a transgender individual, Audrey Hale, and called for urgent research into the effects of psychiatric medications. “There was no time in the past when people would walk into a church or a classroom and start shooting people,” he stated. “It’s not really happening in other countries, it’s happening here.”
The investigation aims to address concerns about the widespread use of SSRIs and their potential impact on mental health. RFK Jr. highlighted that strict patient confidentiality rules have previously hindered such research but stressed that his office has the authority to override these barriers. The findings could prompt broader scrutiny of how psychiatric drugs are prescribed and monitored in the United States.