Hi, @shoshi - since you mentioned minimizing withdrawal symptoms from venlafaxine (Effexor), I've merged your post here so you can meet some of the members talking about that same topic, like @renwald @kbmayo @johnbedson @smurf @youngsally and many others. Hoping they will have some insights to share as you look at tapering off this medication.

I thought you might find this Mayo Clinic article about tapering off antidepressants useful: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressant-withdrawal/faq-20058133

It sounds as though you have taken this medication for 35 years. Is that correct? What does your doctor say about a plan for you to taper off of the venlafaxine (Effexor)?