When you stop taking an antidepressant, a medication prescribed to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders by balancing brain chemicals. Also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, it’s not a relapse — it’s your body adjusting to life without the drug. Many people assume that once they feel better, they can just stop. But that’s when things get tricky. Up to 80% of people who quit abruptly experience some form of withdrawal, even if they’ve only been on the medication for a few weeks.
SSRI withdrawal, a common type of antidepressant withdrawal linked to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors like sertraline or fluoxetine, often shows up as dizziness, brain zaps, nausea, or sudden mood swings. These aren’t in your head — they’re physical reactions. Your brain has adapted to the drug’s presence, and when it’s gone, neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine go haywire. The same thing happens with SNRIs, tricyclics, and even some atypical antidepressants. It’s not about addiction; it’s about physiology.
How long does it last? For most, symptoms peak within the first week and fade over two to four weeks. But for some, especially those on short-acting drugs like paroxetine, it can drag on for months. The key? Tapering. Slowly lowering your dose under medical supervision cuts the risk of severe symptoms by half. Skipping doses or cutting pills in half without guidance? That’s how you end up in a spiral of anxiety and brain fog.
Some people think herbal supplements or lifestyle changes alone can fix this — but they can’t replace a smart taper plan. What helps? Staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and tracking your symptoms daily. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t wait until it’s worse. Talk to your doctor. There’s no shame in needing help to get off these meds safely.
What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve been through this. From how to recognize the early signs of withdrawal, to what to do when you’re stuck between feeling better and feeling awful, to which antidepressants are easiest to quit — we’ve got the no-fluff, no-jargon answers you need.
Switching antidepressants can reduce side effects and improve outcomes-if done safely. Learn the best methods, how to avoid withdrawal symptoms, and what to expect during the transition.