Does anxiety come back after stopping antidepressants?

Does anxiety come back after stopping antidepressants?

For some people, discontinuation symptoms can make it feel as though their depression or anxiety is coming back, and indeed, stopping your antidepressant may increase your risk of relapse. 3 Because of this, it’s important to distinguish between discontinuation syndrome and relapse.

Does your brain go back to normal after stopping antidepressants?

The process of healing the brain takes quite a bit longer than recovery from the acute symptoms. In fact, our best estimates are that it takes 6 to 9 months after you are no longer symptomatically depressed for your brain to entirely recover cognitive function and resilience.

What happens when you discontinue antidepressants?

It might seem like you don’t need the medication anymore, but if you stop taking it, the medicine will leave your body and your symptoms might return. Quitting without consulting your doctor can be life-threatening. Suicide is a serious concern. It can also trigger withdrawal symptoms and relapse of your depression.

How long should you stay on antidepressants for anxiety?

Take your time. Clinicians generally recommend staying on the medication for six to nine months before considering going off antidepressants.

Do antidepressants cause relapse in anxiety disorders?

People with anxiety disorders who continued taking antidepressants after successful treatment were less likely to experience a relapse, and relapsed later, than people who stopped taking antidepressants. About 16\% of people had a relapse if they remained on antidepressants for on average 44 weeks compared with 36\% who stopped after 20 weeks.

How long should you stay on antidepressants before going off?

You may be tempted to stop taking antidepressants as soon as your symptoms ease, but depression can return if you quit too soon. Clinicians generally recommend staying on the medication for six to nine months before considering going off antidepressants.

Can psychotherapy help you stop taking antidepressants?

In a meta-analysis of controlled studies, investigators at Harvard Medical School and other universities found that people who undergo psychotherapy while discontinuing an antidepressant are less likely to have a relapse.

Should I stop taking my antidepressants cold turkey?

Doctors say should never stop taking your meds cold turkey. For some people with depression or anxiety, treatment with antidepressants can be a literal lifesaver. But others, depending on any number of reasons—like insurance coverage, unpleasant side effects, or personal preference—may decide to stop taking the drugs.