Source: Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology

A 2023 survey study of 708 patients in various stages of coming off antidepressants provided an opportunity to hear their experience in getting guidance and support from medical professionals.

The researchers were struck by survey responses revealing how angry, frustrated, disappointed, and let down patients felt by their health care providers. These feelings stemmed from being disbelieved by providers, the lack of accurate information provided to them, and the poor level of care they were given once they became ill with withdrawal symptoms.

Additionally, antidepressant withdrawal symptoms were common, severe, and prolonged for a substantial number of users. As in other studies, longer duration of use was associated with greater likelihood of severe and protracted symptoms.

Online forums are indeed popular gathering spots for patients to share experience and get help. For example, the aforementioned forum Surviving Antidepressants has more than 23,000 members. A Facebook group that helps users taper off the antidepressant Cymbalta has nearly 45,000 members. Many others exist on different platforms, for specific antidepressants and in a number of different languages.

IS ANTIDEPRESSANT WITHDRAWAL OVERREPORTED?

Contrary to these findings, some newer studies suggest that antidepressant discontinuation syndrome is mostly mild and temporary. A 2024 German study found that just 15 percent of patients experienced withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea and insomnia, and 3 percent of patients experienced severe withdrawal.

Additionally, a new 2025 review and analysis of 49 studies on antidepressant withdrawal published in JAMA psychiatry, found that it didn’t qualify as a discontinuation syndrome. It’s important to know that a conflict of interest was noted for several of the study’s authors who had ties to pharmaceutical companies.

Critics of these newer studies point out that the research findings were largely based on short-term antidepressant use. Even though the research is contradictory, it remains abundantly clear that coming off antidepressants carries the risk of withdrawal symptoms.

NATURAL WAYS TO STOP ANTIDEPRESSANTS

On a positive note, there are measure you can take that can help to support your mental health while tapering off antidepressants. Here are some tips for how to stop antidepressants.

Related: 11 Alternatives to Antidepressant Medication

1. Understand the root causes of depression.

At Amen Clinics, which has built the world’s largest database of brain scans related to behavior, the mental health specialists have found that depression isn’t a diagnosis, it’s a symptom. Knowing what’s causing your depression is key to healing.

The experts at Amen Clinics have identified 11 major risk factors that can contribute to depression. Discovering which risk factors you have can help you in understanding how to overcome depression symptoms.

2. Be sure it’s the right time.

Before discontinuing an antidepressant, make sure you’re mentally ready. Do you feel confident that you’re functioning well? Are your life circumstances sound? Are you ready to deal with any negative thoughts that might emerge?

If you are undergoing major changes in your life like a move, divorce, or an illness—it’s probably not the best time to go off your antidepressant.

3. Consult a qualified mental health professional.

Don’t ever stop antidepressants abruptly on your own. Once you’ve decided you want to go off your antidepressant, talk to a psychiatric doctor.

Research suggests that tapering off antidepressants under the supervision of a qualified mental health professional reduces the risk of withdrawal symptoms and depression recurrence.

Each medication is different and requires a specific protocol for tapering safely. Talk it out with your doctor or psychiatrist and make a plan for how to deal with symptoms as they arise.

4. Try therapy.

Only 20 percent of people on antidepressants undergo psychotherapy, according to a recent study. Yet, research indicates that people who undergo psychotherapy while discontinuing an antidepressant are less likely to have a relapse.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety and depression. So, if you’re contemplating quitting antidepressants, consider talk therapy to help you through the transition.

5. Check nutrient levels and take supplements.

Low levels of certain vitamins and nutrients have been linked to symptoms of depression. For example, having low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, folate, vitamin B12, vitamin D, and homocysteine have been associated with depressive symptoms.

To boost omega-3s, methylfolate, vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels, take high-quality nutritional supplements. Other nutraceuticals that may boost your mood include:

• Saffron: There are more than 20 studies showing saffron is more effective than placebo and equal to the antidepressant effects of Prozac, Zoloft, Effexor, and imipramine for depression.

• Curcumin: Studies have found that curcumin—as Longvida, which is much more efficiently absorbed than simply root extract—helps with depression.

• Zinc: A review of the existing studies suggests potential benefits of zinc supplementation—as citrate or glycinate— for depression.

6. Embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Here are some strategies to help boost your mood and mental well-being as you taper off antidepressants and beyond:

• Establish a daily routine: Creating a structured daily routine can provide a sense of stability, helping to alleviate the anxious feelings that accompany uncertainty.

• Practice self-care: Prioritize yourself with self-care activities such as regular exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature, which can all significantly improve mood and reduce stress.

• Build a support network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and mental health professionals for emotional support and to reduce feelings of isolation.

• Engage in pleasurable activities: Participate in activities that bring joy and satisfaction. They can help counter low mood and anxiety by promoting overall well-being.

• Get enough sleep: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene is crucial, as too little sleep can exacerbate depressive symptoms. Develop a consistent sleep schedule and create a restful sleep environment.

Unfortunately, antidepressant discontinuation syndrome isn’t always preventable, but these tips may help to keep symptoms in check and support a stable mood.