SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome (SDS) and How to Overcome It
This applies to the majority of antidepressants, however due to the popularity of SSRI’s, this problem is usually discussed in terms of “SSRI Discontinuation Syndrome”. Here are the key points –
* SDS is basically the drug withdrawal your brain and body goes through when you stop taking the drug in question. It is essentially the same concept as quitting smoking or heroin – your brain is used to having that substance and when it is taken away, it undergoes stress.
* Drug companies initially denied the existence of this and doctors previously did not warn of it. I believe most doctors now warn of it when prescribing but there will always be exceptions
* This is why your doctor will tell you to not stop taking the drug suddenly without supervision. All kinds of freaky stuff can happen – some of them life-threatening.
* The likelihood of you having SDS and the severity of your symptoms are usually determined by –
1. The length of time you were on the meds (The longer, the more likely you will have adverse symptoms)
2. The dosage you were on (the higher the dosage the harder to come off)
* In general I would say to expect SDS if and when you decide to stop Best Nootropics and Brain Supplements taking SSRI’s
* Many people have said that SDS can be one of the most unpleasant experiences there is – it has been compared unfavourably to Heroin withdrawal! So don’t think you are alone if you are going through (temporary) hell.
Some key questions to consider before you decide to come off SSRI’s –
1. Why do I want to come off SSRIs? Is it a trivial reason? Or is it because of debilitating side-effects?
2. Was I a suicide risk before going on SSRI’s? If so, you need to discuss seriously with a trained professional (doctor or psychologist) before proceeding.
3. Have SSRI’s worked for me?
4. Have they changed my personality? (for good or bad)
5. While on SSRI’s have I changed the circumstances which triggered or contributed to my initial symptoms?
6. Have I worked on changing my thoughts and behaviors which contributed to my initial problems?
My Plastic Brain Plan for Coming Off SSRI’s (and other AD’s)