Tips for Tapering Off Antidepressants

By Tara Peyman, ND

When it comes to treating depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders, the best course of action is to address the underlying cause. You may just want to take a pill that covers up your symptoms, but if you prefer to get to the root of the problem and treat it naturally, there are many options that are safe, effective, and affordable. Many people find that their doctor is quick to prescribe antidepressants or anxiety medications, but it can be difficult to know where to turn if you ever want to taper off.

An important first step is to talk with your doctor about your goals. Write down your questions before your office visit, and make sure you get answers and feel heard. If you are working with a doctor who is unwilling to discuss alternatives to medications, there are licensed naturopathic physicians who are trained in an integrative approach to treating mood disorders.

In preparation for safely tapering off medications, certain lifestyle changes can help. Some people find that regular exercise alone can dramatically improve their mood, regulate sleep, and balance energy. A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, omega-3 oils, and lean protein will benefit your overall health, as well as your mental well-being, by providing your body and brain with the nutrients you need every day.

If lifestyle changes are not enough, one of the safest ways to replace the need for prescriptions drugs is to find an effective homeopathic medicine that is individually selected for you. This medicine can be a powerful tool to address the deeper cause of your symptoms, and assist in the taper process. Homeopathic remedies are made from natural sources, such as plants or minerals. Each single homeopathic remedy can treat a very specific set of symptoms. There are hundreds of homeopathic remedies for treating depression and anxiety, and each person may need a different medicine, based on the unique characteristics of their case.

There are no side effects from homeopathic medicine, and it does not interact with conventional drugs, so it is possible to begin homeopathic treatment while still taking prescriptions. It is a safe choice for women during pregnancy or nursing, and is often very effective for women with post-partum depression. Homeopathy is very valuable for treating children or adolescents with behavioral or mood disorders, especially because of the increased risk of suicide associated with conventional antidepressant medications in adolescents.

In cases of anxiety or depression, your body has the ability to correct underlying hormonal or chemical imbalances so that mood can be normalized; sometimes, however, we can forget how to rebalance and become stuck in a state of chronic depression or anxiety. Homeopathic medicine reminds your body of how it can heal naturally, by giving you a boost in the right direction to promote hormonal and chemical balance. Most people see positive results from homeopathic medicine within a few days to a few weeks of starting treatment. With improved chemical balance, conventional drugs are less necessary, and can be tapered. This may require the assistance of a naturopathic doctor who understands how to safely taper medications while providing natural alternatives.

--Dr. Tara Peyman is a licensed naturopathic physician with an expertise in the integrative treatment of bipolar disorder and mental illness. She practices in the Phoenix area, at Arizona Natural Health Center (480-456-0402). AZNaturalHealth.com