From published research studies, SSRIs appear to have a favourable risk-benefit ratio. But the picture changes if you take account of the unpublished studies.
Researchers reporting in The Lancet carried out a systematic review not just of the published data but of unpublished trials, made available from the UK Committee for the Safety of Medicines. They found that only one drug, fluoxetine, known as Prozac, was not associated with negative outcomes for children with depression. Wider analysis suggested the risks of SSRI treatment exceeded the benefits. Paroxetine or Paxil, for example, was associated with a small increased risk in suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide.
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