Coming off antidepressants safely
Why tapering matters, what discontinuation symptoms can feel like, and how to plan with your provider.
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
✓ Medically reviewed by Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Feeling better and wondering if you still need your antidepressant? That’s a great conversation to have. Stopping safely takes a plan.
Don’t stop suddenly
Stopping an antidepressant all at once can cause discontinuation symptoms like dizziness, irritability, flu-like feelings, trouble sleeping or “brain zaps.” Tapering slowly lowers that risk.
Timing matters
Many providers suggest staying on treatment for six to twelve months after you feel well. A calmer season of life is usually a better time to taper than a stressful one.
Make a plan together
We’ll decide on a gradual taper, check in along the way and adjust if symptoms appear. Some people taper over weeks, others over months.
Know the signs of relapse
Returning low mood, anxiety or sleep changes that last more than a couple of weeks may be a sign to pause or restart treatment. That isn’t failure. It’s good information.
A gentle next step
A free 15-minute phone consult is an easy way to see if Wellthy Psychiatry feels like the right fit for you.
This article is for general education and isn’t medical advice. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
About the author
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner · UCSF-trained · Founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
Earl provides LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-affirming psychiatric care, blending medication management, therapy and whole-person approaches. He sees clients in San Francisco and by telehealth across California.
Keep reading
Related posts
GeneSight testing for antidepressants: is genetic testing worth it?
GeneSight and other pharmacogenomic tests can help guide medication choices. Here’s what they can and can’t tell you, and what they cost.
When big emotions feel constant: what helps
Why emotions can feel so big, DBT skills to try today, and when it’s time to reach out.
Antidepressants and LGBTQ+ health: what to know before you start
Questions about antidepressants, sexual side effects, PrEP, HIV medications or hormones? Here’s what LGBTQ+ patients should know before starting depression treatment.
Burnout or depression? How to tell the difference
Burnout and depression share many symptoms. Here’s how they differ, and why getting the right diagnosis matters.