Anti depressant medications: DON'T stop without professional advice

In the last few day, you may have read or heard startling claims that some common antidepressant medications are little better than a placebo ("sugar" pill). Articles have cited research by the University of Hull.

Whatever the merits of the study, it is potentially dangerous for anyone currently prescribed anti-depressants to suddenly quit. Going "cold turkey" with any medication, or any drug legal or illegal, is unwise. Sudden withdrawal can cause severe psychological and physical disturbance including hallucinations, sleep disturbance, paranoia, and psychosis.

Any cessation of psychotropic medication including anti-depressants needs to be carefully planned in staged reduction, reducing the intake gradually in steps leading to nil intake.

If you are on a medication for depression, anxiety or any other emotional or psychological issue,
AND your mood, behaviour, feelings and thinking are better now than they were before you started taking the medication, why stop? Do no be panicked by media reports: if you are uneasy about what you have read or heard, speak to your prescribing doctor. Your mental health and happiness are worth it.

"Talking makes a great start"
John Hunter, Medicare Provider of Counselling.
http://www.johnhunter.net.au/
Email: john@johnhunter.net.au
Mobile 0405 107 476, Ph. (03) 9539 2200