Having raced long distance triathlon for over a decade, I often joke that the endurance sports community is rife with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is defined as an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors and rituals aimed at reducing anxiety.

Studies have also repeatedly established that will power is a limited resource or energy, and that the conscious mind lacks the awareness to control all our unconscious decision making processes. Self control is less about having an iron will, and more about setting ourselves up for success with appropriate triggers, and techniques to distract.

While antidepressants are in common use, myths abound about their benefits and risks. Here we hope to address some of the common misconceptions surrounding antidepressants so we can determine if they are right for you.