The long and winding road of discontinuing long‐term use of antidepressants: learning from my experience

What is known on the subject? • More people experience withdrawal symptoms when weaning off antidepressants than previously thought; particularly after taking them for a long time. What this paper adds to existing knowledge. • I explore my own experience of weaning off antidepressants; detailing conflicting advice I have received from healthcare professionals, and the mental and physical withdrawal symptoms I experienced. • I relate my experiences to a growing body of research, which have important implications for improving care. What are the implications for mental health nursing? • Healthcare professionals should make patients aware of potential withdrawal symptoms they may experience before they wean off antidepressants; regularly review their progress; consider helping them access psychological support whilst weaning off; and engage in open and collaborative conversations with patients throughout. • Clinical guidance needs to be updated to provide appropriate evidence-based information/advice/recommendations for how best to support patients when coming off of antidepressants.