Hello ATHL
That sounds really tough and it must be worrying you that it could be permanent. The best thing is definitely to speak to your doctor (or get a second opinion if you’re not happy with the response). Or you could see a psychiatrist because they specialise in the medications and will best know what you can expect.
Unfortunately with most anti depressants there are side effects when you stop taking them. I was wondering if you came off them very slowly? Sometimes it can take months to come off medication properly, so that the side effects are minimised. Because some of the meds can cause quite rough withdrawal symptoms, especially if you’ve come off it too quick.
I wonder if your doctor is suggesting you go back on it (even just a small dose) so that you can come off it again more slowly in the hope that’ll give the body more of a chance to adjust? Especially since you have been on it for years the change can be quite a shock to the body.
I’ve had some pretty difficult withdrawal symptoms before. I was told that it can take months for them to subside, but they usually do. I was worried like you, that I’d be stuck with it forever, but it wasn’t the case for me. I’ve been on and off many meds over the years and it’s always levelled out eventually. Some longer than others though. But maybe I’ve been lucky, I don’t know. I do know it can take time though.
Please think about getting another opinion, at least it will put your mind at ease. Sometimes the more we worry about something the more we notice it, and having that anxiety removed might help it calm down.
I hope this helps a little. Good luck.
Alexlisa
