Additional support

When discontinuing antidepressants, social and psychological support is helpful. Past experience of stopping should be explored as this can be informative for predicting what symptoms may arise again on tapering. Careful consideration of past attempts to stop may detect withdrawal symptoms being misdiagnosed as relapse.

Often patients will require some preparation for antidepressant tapering. This might include arrangements for lightening workload or family duties, or more focus on non-pharmacological coping skills (e.g. breathing exercises, exercise, hobbies, diary keeping and de-catastrophising).

Tapering is not recommended at periods of major change (e.g. moving house, getting divorced, the birth of a child). It is recommended to wait until things have subsided to increase the likelihood of a successful withdrawal. 

There is some evidence that cognitive behavioural therapy can support antidepressant withdrawal, while other third sector organisations, such as Mind or the Recovery College, can be helpful in supporting patients through antidepressant discontinuation.