Antidepressant Addiction

Antidepressants come in several types, each targeting different brain chemicals. Understanding these types can help demystify the treatment process and explain why doctors might prescribe one over another.

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): These are the most commonly prescribed antidepressants, including medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft). They increase serotonin levels, which play a significant role in mood regulation.
• Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Medications like venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) target serotonin and norepinephrine to address both depression and anxiety.
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs): Though less commonly used due to their side effects, TCAs like amitriptyline and nortriptyline can be effective for more severe or resistant cases of depression.
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): These older antidepressants are prescribed sparingly due to dietary restrictions and potential side effects. Medications like phenelzine (Nardil) are included here.
• Atypical antidepressants: This category includes medications that don’t fit neatly into the other types, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), often used to treat both depression and seasonal affective disorder.

Each type works differently, and finding the right medication may involve some trial and error. This is where open communication with a healthcare provider becomes essential.

Antidepressants are not addictive in the way substances like opioids or alcohol can be. They don’t produce a high or lead to compulsive drug-seeking behaviour. However, they can create a form of psychological dependence for some individuals, especially if someone feels unable to function without them.

The key lies in how the brain and body adapt to regular antidepressant use. When these medications are stopped suddenly, people often experience withdrawal symptoms (sometimes called antidepressant discontinuation syndrome), including dizziness, irritability and flu-like symptoms. These effects are mostly mild, but they can still be uncomfortable enough to deter someone from coming off the medication.

But for some, the idea of managing life without antidepressants may feel daunting. Research suggests that most patient fear lies in 3 main areas:

• They may become imbalanced after discounting
• Withdrawal symptoms may occur
• Their initial disorder may recur

Recognising this psychological aspect is important when considering whether antidepressant use has become problematic.

While these medications don’t exhibit the same signs as harder drug addictions, it’s important to recognise that psychological dependency is possible and can vary from person to person. Rather than a fixed list of signs, the experience is unique to each individual. Below, we explore some of the most common signs, but keep in mind the variability of these experiences.

Physical signs

• Withdrawal symptoms when a dose is missed: Symptoms such as nausea, headaches, dizziness or irritability can occur if you skip or reduce your dose suddenly.
• Increased tolerance: Feeling that the medication is no longer as effective, leading to thoughts of needing higher doses.
• Fatigue or lack of energy between doses: Experiencing dips in energy that are only resolved when taking the next prescribed dose.
• Persistent physical discomfort: Ongoing side effects, such as dry mouth or weight fluctuations, but continuing the medication regardless.
• Sleep disturbances: Experiencing insomnia or vivid dreams when attempting to reduce or stop the medication.

Psychological signs

• Fear or anxiety about stopping: Constant worry about how life might feel or function without the medication.
• Emotional numbness: Using antidepressants to avoid feeling strong emotions, both positive and negative.
• Dependency for self-esteem: Feeling that you need the medication to maintain confidence or a sense of normality.
• Sense of helplessness without the medication: Believing you cannot cope with everyday life or stressors unless you take your antidepressants.
• Overthinking medication use: Constantly worrying about running out or how you’ll cope if a prescription is delayed.

Behavioural signs

• Taking a higher dose than prescribed: Adjusting your dosage on your own without medical advice.
• Avoiding doctor reviews: Skipping follow-ups or neglecting to discuss your medication out of fear the prescription might change.
• Using someone else’s medication: Borrowing or using antidepressants not prescribed to you.
• Ignoring suggestions to taper off: Refusing to consider reducing your dosage, even when your doctor advises it may be time to do so.
• Prioritising medication over other treatments: Relying solely on antidepressants while avoiding complementary therapies like counselling or lifestyle changes.

Recognising these signs doesn’t mean antidepressants were a mistake or that seeking help was wrong. Instead, it’s an opportunity to reassess and ensure your mental health remains a priority in the best possible way.

Treating antidepressant addiction starts with recognising the unique challenges posed by these medications. At Liberty House, we treat antidepressant dependency as a chance to support your journey toward a healthier, more balanced life.

The first step in treatment is a comprehensive assessment. This helps us understand your history with antidepressants, why they were prescribed and any concerns you have about coming off them. Knowing your story allows us to tailor a programme that works for you.

Detox is often necessary for those who’ve developed a reliance on antidepressants. A medical team monitors this process to ensure withdrawal symptoms are managed safely. Unlike other substances, antidepressant detox focuses on gradually reducing doses to minimise discomfort and avoid abrupt changes in brain chemistry.

Therapy forms the heart of treatment. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can help you understand the patterns of thought and behaviour that contributed to your reliance on antidepressants. Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) may also be useful, especially if emotional regulation has been a struggle.

Finally, aftercare is essential to ensure long-term recovery. Leaving treatment can feel daunting, but aftercare services act as a safety net, helping you maintain progress and address challenges that arise post-rehab.

If you or someone you care about has concerns about antidepressant use, reaching out for help can feel like an overwhelming step. But at Liberty House, we’re here to make it as smooth and supportive as possible. With a combination of expert care, tailored therapy and compassionate understanding, we can help you rediscover life without relying on antidepressants.

Take the first step toward a brighter tomorrow. Get in touch today.