“Can anti-depressants become an addiction?”
I was diagnosed with depression three years ago, and I have been taking anti-depressants ever since. They also have been helping me sleep. My mom told me that I shouldn't depend on them though since I have told her about how they help me sleep throughout the night. Is it possible to get addicted to anti-depressants?
2 Answers
Essentially, no. There is no evidence that people get "dependent" on them, although some like venlafaxine can have a withdrawal "flu-like" symptoms that can be unpleasant. Many people have chronic depression that requires them to continue antidepressant meds for years. 50% of folk get a recurrence of their depression after stopping their meds after their first depressive episode (50% are fine without meds). If you have a second episode of depression, 80% of folk will get a recurrence after they stop meds the second time. 95% of folk will get a recurrence of depression at some time in their lives after they stop meds after their 3rd episode (because it is a chronic condition). And so the recommendation with recurrent depression is to continue the meds chronically. The side effects of the meds should be minimal. The risks to you from ongoing med use are minimal. The long-term benefits of keeping you well are HUGE. Depression is one of the most common causes of disability in the world and is misunderstood by many. Listen to a professional about your condition, not your mother.
No. Antidepressants aren't addicting although you may become dependent on them at times, e.g. for helping one sleep. If there is no reason to stop them, then utilize them for sleep, but it would be a good idea to discuss it with your doctor so he/she can further assess the situation, dose., etc.
