Will my depression, anxiety, or other condition return if I stop taking my antidepressant?

Many people try to go off their drugs and mistake antidepressant withdrawal symptoms with a relapse (return) of depression or anxiety. Some symptoms of withdrawal appear like depression or anxiety -– for example, low mood, anxiety, trouble sleeping, amongst others. Often people conclude that they cannot stop antidepressants because of this.

However, stopping antidepressants is often done too quickly. Many symptoms that resemble relapse can be avoided by stopping more gradually.

However, even the most careful taper of your antidepressant will not prevent you from experiencing emotional ups or downs, low moods, or anxiety in the future. But we know from studies that at least 40% of people can stop their antidepressants without experiencing a relapse (return) of depression.¹

Studies have shown that people who go off antidepressants gradually did as well in terms of relapse as people who stayed on antidepressants.² At Outro, we will provide you with support and coping techniques to lessen your chances of being overcome by mood problems again. Our focus is to help build sustainable long-term mental health and wellness while safely assisting members off antidepressants.

¹ Lewis G, Marston L, Duffy L, et al. Maintenance or Discontinuation of Antidepressants in Primary Care. N Engl J Med. 2021;385(14):1257-1267.

² Breedvelt JJF, Warren FC, Segal Z, et al. Continuation of Antidepressants vs Sequential Psychological Interventions to Prevent Relapse in Depression: An Individual Participant Data Meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry. 2021;78(8):868-875.