HHS Investigates SSRIs, Psychiatric Drugs After Minnesota Catholic School Shooting

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has announced investigations into whether drugs taken by the transgender shooter at a Minnesota Catholic school, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other psychiatric medications, may have contributed to the violence. Kennedy highlighted that many SSRIs carry black box warnings about suicidal and homicidal ideations, and his department is launching studies to explore these potential connections. The shooter, Robin Westman, previously known as Robert, reportedly expressed regret about his transition, raising questions about the role of hormone and psychiatric treatments in such violent acts. The FBI is investigating the shooting as a domestic terrorism and hate crime targeting Catholics. Some politicians, including Minnesota Senator Tina Smith, have criticized Kennedy's remarks as insensitive and misleading to the grieving community. Supporters argue the investigation is necessary to understand all potential causes behind the rising violence linked to mental health treatments and transgender-related issues.