Withdrawal from medication - How long to expect symptoms to last

[Like_a_diamond]

Hi all,

First time posting, hoping there are others who may be able to share their experience and offer some advice.

Have withdrawn from my SSR medication, 4 weeks ago was my final tablet. Very quick taper (3 weeks), for medical reasons. Have been on Anti Dep for roughly 6yrs.

Having really bad withdrawals still - Brain zaps, muscle pain, sleep issues and mood changes). Am confident it is the meds and not a return of PND. Symptoms are worse when tired, and random 'bad' days.

Have been taking vitamins to help (magnesium, evening primrose) and listening to meditation music etc before bed.

I can't seem to find any pattern to indicate my brain is returning to normal. Withdrawal 'good' days still have symptoms - just milder, mostly they are hard to work through.

Today I noticed I am feeling worn down from being tired/zapped and it is now afecting my thoughts. I feel guilty Im not able to do things like before (house chores etc), feeling hopeless.

I know though it is just a matter of time before this withdrawal stops - and If I can keep focused on that - I can push through those negative thoughts.

Has anyone else had prolonged withdrawal symptoms after quick ceasation - how did it affect you, and how long did it last? Did anything help?

Any thoughts andencouragment from others who have successfully withdrawn are much appreciated

❤

[Gruffudd]

Hi Diamond,

The doctor hopefully talked about what to expect, and I certainly am not a doctor. I have been on and off medication a fair few times before and will again, I only tend to take things for 6 months to a year.

My experience is that it takes time, and longer than I expect. It is like getting over a bad cold, one day I realise that none of the withdrawal happened. You are right that staying on top of your thoughts and behaviour should help. I firmly believe in faking it until I make it. So what of those things you have stopped doing? Does it feel good to get them done? If so I'd be pushing through there. If you can break it up into smaller goals that can be worthwhile.

I do need to remind myself that whilst those withdrawal symptoms physically feel like depression or anxiety they are not, my body is adjusting. So don't be too hard on yourself, and keep talking to your doctor all the way through.

One last thing, you have come through a really challenging thing to get to the point of ending this medication, I'm saying well done for that, no matter what the future holds, you have succeeded.

Rob.

[Like_a_diamond]

Thank you Rob ❤