Can I stop my antidepressant once I feel better?
Reviewed by Dr. Akinwande Akintola, MD - Sun Jul 19 2026
Not on your own, and probably not yet. Feeling better is the medication working. Stopping the moment you feel good is the most common way people end up back where they started. The standard advice after a first episode: stay on it six to twelve months after full improvement, then taper slowly with your prescriber.
Cold-stopping also brings its own misery: dizziness, irritability, the infamous "brain zaps." When you're ready, your prescriber builds the taper and watches for early warning signs with you. There's no prize for getting off medication fast. The prize is staying well.
Related questions
Have a question of your own?
Most new patients are seen within 1-2 business days, by video anywhere in Texas or in person in DFW. Most insured patients pay $0-$30 per visit.
Book an appointmentIf you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or go to your nearest ER.