I think @sears meant since I was on such a low dose (10 mg.) and for only 8 weeks I would not have to have a long, gradual decrease of this drug when coming off of it. That's what @sears meant by a "short taper".
And that is exactly what happened. I was able to stop it quickly since I was not on it that long and the dose only 10 mg.
I think you should follow your doctor's advice in weaning off this drug. Don't know how long you were on it(?) but with a 40 mg. dose it's best to come off of it slowly as your doctor is advising you. It is encouraging. Don't know exactly what you mean by "my mind gets the best of me" when home alone but my guess is you find yourself mentally out of whack. Which is normal. When this happens try to "distract" yourself. Get out of your mind and focus on something you enjoy no matter what it is. Even going outside for a brief walk, listening to music can help. Accept that this feeling is happening to you - talk to yourself to overcome it and then move on to something else! You will eventually get rid off Paxil...be patient and best of luck to you.