Thread by @tylerblack32

@Davidlaz @LMorrisWriter @latimes If you are, first: your story and personal experience are valid. There is nothing wrong with experiencing what you did.

However, saying you are an "addict" for experiencing either a return of depressive symptoms (lethargy, moodiness, irritability...) or some withdrawal symptoms

@Davidlaz @LMorrisWriter @latimes is problematic on many levels. SSRI/NRI withdrawal is real but it can be managed, and it is not an "addiction", because addictions are harmful, with no benefit. It seems like you benefited from the antidepressant.

@Davidlaz @LMorrisWriter @latimes Also, it is very common for people to come off of antidepressants and realize that they need antidepressants to feel "OK". This is not necessarily withdrawal, as many people have chronic anxiety or depression.

@Davidlaz @LMorrisWriter @latimes And finally, when antidepressant titration is problematic, either slow it down (taper even more incrementally) or just return to the medication.

There are many who need for depression, anxiety, or other conditions, and stopping them causes problems. They're NOT addicts.

@Davidlaz @LMorrisWriter @latimes There are so many people who will NOT choose antidepressants because of your article, and so many people who will use your article as fuel for pushing others to not take them, you could really be harming people that might benefit from medications YOU benefited from.

@Davidlaz @LMorrisWriter @latimes As a psychiatrist, I talk to people about starting and stopping antidepressants, and I am very open and explicit: ANTIDEPRESSANTS AREN'T ADDICTIVE. They can, however, cause withdrawal symptoms if withdrawn too quickly.