Levels of Reported Depression, Boredom Salience, and Sexual Boredom as a Function of Length of Time on Antidepressant Medications

Boredom is linked to numerous negative psychological conditions, yet remains critically under-researched. Individuals with depression frequently experience boredom, yet the relationship between boredom and antidepressants remains largely unexplored. We investigated the associations between antidepressants and various dimensions of boredom using an online sample (N = 251). This study focused on SSRIs, the most frequently prescribed antidepressant, to reduce variability across drug classes. Sexual boredom was of particular interest due to its association with both depression and SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. Participants who reported using SSRIs for six weeks to two years reported higher levels of sexual, trait, and state boredom compared to non-SSRI users. However, no significant differences emerged between non-users and those on SSRIs for over two years. Clinical implications include the need for psychoeducation on boredom as a potential side effect influencing treatment adherence. Increased research is needed to explore the intersection of boredom and psychiatric treatment outcomes.