Discover Relief From SSRIs Withdrawal Symptoms

Antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed to treat chronic depression and anxiety. Stopping these medicines can lead to withdrawal. Below, we’ll dive into the process of stopping your medication, and how we can help.  

You’ve probably heard of Zoloft, Celexa, and Prozac; these are some of the most well-known SSRIs. They’re a type of medication that works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical that plays a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and overall emotional well-being.

When someone is depressed or anxious, their brain might not be producing enough serotonin, or it might not be using it effectively. SSRIs are believed to help by blocking the reabsorption (or “reuptake”) of serotonin into the brain’s nerve cells. This leaves more serotonin available to improve communication between brain cells, which can help boost mood and reduce anxiety.

SSRIs are generally considered safe and effective, but like any medication, they can have side effects. Common side effects include nausea, headache, and changes in sleep patterns. However, these usually improve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. SSRIs are often a first choice for treating depression because they have fewer side effects compared to older antidepressants.

It’s important to remember that while SSRIs can help manage symptoms, they aren’t a cure. They are often used alongside therapy and lifestyle changes to help people feel better and stay well.

Call us at (866) 525-5197 to learn more about

medication management,

 anxiety treatment, and
major depressive disorder treatment.

There are several reasons why you might decide it’s time to quit taking SSRIs. For some people, the medication works well at first, but over time, they may feel that they no longer need it or that it’s not helping as much as it used to. Others might experience side effects like weight gain, sleep problems, or decreased energy, which can make daily life more challenging. These side effects can be frustrating, and stopping the medication might feel like the best way to get back to feeling more like yourself.

Another reason is if you’ve made progress in therapy or other treatments that have helped you manage your depression or anxiety without relying on medication. If you’ve developed strong coping skills and feel stable, you might feel ready to try living without SSRIs. However, it’s important to approach this decision carefully, as stopping SSRIs suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms and a return of the original issues.

Please do not quit without consulting with a medical professional to make sure it’s the right choice for you. 

When someone takes these types of medication for an extended period, their brain adjusts to the medication’s effects. Over time, the brain becomes reliant on the steady supply of serotonin achieved through taking medication. So when the medication is suddenly reduced or stopped, the brain needs time to adapt to the lower serotonin levels. This leads to withdrawal symptoms.

The severity of your SSRI withdrawal symptoms varies depending on factors like the type of SSRI, how long it was taken, and how quickly the dosage is reduced.

Please understand, SSRI withdrawal is not the same as addiction. Unlike addictive substances, SSRIs don’t create a craving or compulsion to take more. However, the body still experiences discomfort when adjusting to the absence of the medication. Gradually tapering off can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and make the transition smoother as you address the root cause of whatever led you to take SSRIs in the first place.

Some or all of these symptoms may occur:

Physical Symptoms

• Dizziness: A common and often debilitating symptom, dizziness can affect daily functioning.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Gastrointestinal issues are frequent and can lead to dehydration if severe.
• Headaches: Persistent headaches are common during withdrawal.
• Fatigue: Many people experience overwhelming tiredness and a lack of energy.
• Flu-like Symptoms: Muscle aches, chills, and sweating can mimic the flu.
• Balance Issues: Some individuals report a sensation of unsteadiness or vertigo.

Psychological Symptoms

• Anxiety: Increased anxiety can occur, even if SSRIs were initially prescribed for this condition.
• Irritability: Mood swings and irritability are common as the brain adjusts to new serotonin levels.
• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep can exacerbate other symptoms.
• Crying Spells: Sudden emotional outbursts or crying spells can occur without clear triggers.
• Depression: A resurgence of depressive symptoms is possible, particularly if SSRIs were managing this condition.

The time and phases of SSRI withdrawal vary for each person, depending on the drug, dose, and length of use. There is, however, a trend that a lot of people follow.

• Week 1: Initial Symptoms. Withdrawal signs may start a few days after you stop taking the drug. Headaches, nausea, and feeling dizzy are common early SSRI withdrawal symptoms. Anxiety and anger may also start to show up.
• Week 2: Peak Intensity. Most of the time, symptoms get worse around the second week. Often, physical signs like aches that feel like the flu, trouble keeping your balance, and tiredness are at their worst. Mood and anxiety disorders, as well as sadness, may also get worse.
• Weeks 3-4: Gradual Improvement. By the third and fourth weeks, many people start to see a reduction in their symptoms. Most of the time, physical SSRI withdrawal symptoms go away first, while mental symptoms may last longer.
• Month 2 and Beyond: Resolution. For most people, symptoms keep getting better during the second month. Some people, particularly those suffering from mental problems, may experience long-term consequences. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.

Each person’s timeline is unique. After a few weeks, many people start to feel better, and within a month, the majority of physical problems go away. There may be a delay in the complete remission of psychological symptoms including anxiety and depression. Withdrawal symptoms of SSRI antidepressants may last for months, if not longer, depending on the severity and duration of the medication’s use.

If you’ve decided to stop taking SSRIs, it’s important to do it carefully to avoid or reduce withdrawal symptoms. Never do this without first consulting a medical professional.

1. Taper Off Slowly: One of the most effective ways to manage SSRI withdrawal symptoms is to gradually reduce your dosage instead of quitting suddenly. This gives your brain time to adjust to the lower levels of serotonin.

2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet can help your body handle the changes better. Focus on foods rich in vitamins and minerals to support your overall health.

3. Get Plenty of Rest: Your body needs extra energy to manage withdrawal symptoms, so make sure you’re getting enough sleep. If you’re having trouble sleeping, try to create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you wind down.

4. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity can boost your mood naturally and help reduce withdrawal symptoms. Even light exercise, like walking, can make a big difference.

5. Stay Connected: Talk to friends or family about what you’re going through. Sometimes, just having someone to listen can make things easier. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, consider joining a support group where you can share your experiences with others who understand.

6. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Stress can make withdrawal symptoms worse, so it’s important to find ways to relax. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can help calm your mind and body.

Remember, managing SSRI withdrawal on your own can be challenging, so don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it. There’s no shame in asking for support—your health and well-being are what matter most.

• Hydration: Staying hydrated can help manage nausea and headaches.
• Balanced Diet: Eating a nutritious diet supports overall health and well-being during withdrawal.
• Regular Exercise: Being active can improve your mood and give you more energy, which can help fight fatigue and sadness.
• Adequate Sleep: Establishing a regular sleep routine can mitigate insomnia and improve overall functioning.

At Neurish Wellness, we provide comprehensive mental health care to empower individuals struggling with mental health issues. Our team of experienced behavioral health experts offers personalized care that treats the whole person, not just their symptoms. We utilize innovative, holistic, and clinically sophisticated treatment tailored to each individual’s needs and circumstances.

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is available to provide support and answer any questions you may have.

Call us at (866) 525-5197 to learn more about

medication management,

 anxiety treatment, and
major depressive disorder treatment.

Call us at (866) 525-5197 to learn more about

medication management,

 anxiety treatment, and
major depressive disorder treatment.