Withdrawal Symptoms from Antidepressants: A Patient's Journey - Psychiatry

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Understanding withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants can be a complex and often frustrating journey for many patients. Your experience, which began with panic disorder and led to the use of medications like SNRIs (such as Venlafaxine, known as "速悅" in your context), highlights some common challenges faced during and after treatment.

When you initially started taking the medication, it likely helped alleviate the symptoms of panic disorder, such as palpitations, shortness of breath, and dizziness. However, upon discontinuation, you experienced withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness and a feeling of tightness in your head. These symptoms can be attributed to the brain's adjustment to the absence of the medication, which it had become accustomed to over time.

Antidepressants, particularly SNRIs and SSRIs, can lead to withdrawal symptoms when they are stopped abruptly or even gradually. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as "discontinuation syndrome." Symptoms can vary widely among individuals but often include dizziness, headaches, nausea, fatigue, irritability, and a general feeling of unease. The duration and intensity of these symptoms can depend on several factors, including the specific medication, the dosage, the duration of use, and individual differences in metabolism and brain chemistry.

In your case, after stopping the medication, the return of dizziness and tightness in your head suggests that your body may still be adjusting to the changes in neurotransmitter levels. The tightness and pressure you feel could also be related to anxiety, which can manifest physically as muscle tension and headaches. It’s not uncommon for individuals who have experienced anxiety disorders to have lingering symptoms even after stopping medication, as the underlying anxiety may still be present.

Your doctor’s diagnosis of "neurasthenia" (神經衰弱) and the prescription of medications like "妥富腦" (a nootropic) and "利福全" (likely referring to a medication for anxiety or mood stabilization) indicates an attempt to manage these ongoing symptoms. However, as you've experienced, stopping these medications can also lead to a resurgence of symptoms.

The question of whether you need to take medication for life is a common concern. The answer varies greatly among individuals. Some people may find that they can manage their symptoms effectively with therapy, lifestyle changes, and coping strategies, while others may require ongoing medication to maintain stability. It’s essential to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about your symptoms, treatment goals, and any concerns you have regarding long-term medication use.

In addition to medication, consider integrating other therapeutic approaches into your treatment plan. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective for anxiety disorders and can provide you with tools to manage your symptoms without relying solely on medication. Mindfulness practices, regular physical activity, and a healthy diet can also play significant roles in managing anxiety and improving overall mental health.

Ultimately, the journey through mental health treatment is highly individual. It’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and circumstances. Regular follow-ups and adjustments to your treatment plan can help ensure that you find the most effective approach for your situation. Remember, recovery is often a gradual process, and it’s okay to seek support along the way.