27/11/2025
Most South Africans don’t realise this… 😳
Many people trying to stop antidepressants end up feeling “hooked” — not because the meds are addictive like drugs or alcohol, but because **withdrawal symptoms can hit HARD**.
Head zaps. Panic. Insomnia. Mood crashes. Nausea. Irritability.
These symptoms make people think they’re “addicted”… when what they’re actually experiencing is something called **antidepressant discontinuation syndrome**.
Here’s why this matters👇
Too many people stop their medication suddenly… and then spiral.
Not because they’re weak. Not because they’re dependent.
But because **their brains need a slow, medically-guided taper**.
If you or someone you care about is on antidepressants, understanding this can prevent a LOT of unnecessary suffering.
I’ve put together a full breakdown in a blog post — what the symptoms look like, why they happen, and how to reduce the risks safely.
If mental health matters to you (or someone in your home), take 3 minutes to read it.
It could genuinely help someone avoid a crisis.
https://www.wellvalerecovery.com/post/understanding-antidepressant-withdrawal-what-south-africans-need-to-know