Tips on minimizing withdrawal symptoms from Effexor (aka Venlafaxine)

Here are a couple of articles about the mental health benefits of gardening—
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/antidepressant-microbes-soil.htm
https://qz.com/993258/dirt-has-a-microbiome-and-it-may-double-as-an-antidepressant/

I've forced myself to get into my sewing studio. I dont understand how sometimes, a hobby is a joy and other times it seems a chore. Trying to get out into the sunshine, and I have a slew of African violets in my kitchen that I propagate. We also have bluebirds in our backyard. Sometimes I think they are the only thing that gives me hope, they show up when I need them most. The fatigue though is debilitating and so frustrating. Hope everyone has a good day tomorrow, thank you for being here.

I know what you mean about your birds. The bald eagles are still hanging around here in southern Iowa and when I see one for some reason it gives me hope. I know what you mean by having to force are selves to get out and do something. It's seems like a big chore. I'm on day 5 of restarting my effexor. As of right now it seems to be making my depression worse. But like you said, have a good day tomorrow. Warmer weather and lots of sunshine I think will help us all. At least I pray it does.

Hi there, I just joined Connect in preparation for my Effexor detox. I'm starting on Monday, and I'm pretty scared bc I've already experienced the withdrawal many times from missing doses. Been on 300 mg for about 8 years and really feel like I'm ready to come off. I'll be taking a leave from work, so I can taper aggressively and just focus on being healthy. Just hoping to find some support and solidarity 🙂

There is alot of good people on here with great advice. The number one thing that everyone will tell you is to go SLOOOOW. I made that mistake 2 weeks ago. I went way to fast and had major withdrawals. Panic attacks anxiety attacks and felt like I was losing my mind. I ended up in the emergency room twice. Please listen to what people tell you on here. You found a very great group and great people. Remember don't go to fast!!

I second that, please go slow, withdrawal on day 5-8 were bad for me. I’m still Effexor free, it will be 2 weeks tomorrow, but I had to add Prozac 20mg to get me through it. Still having withdrawals, but is getting better. Anxiety is what I feel mostly now, not sick to my stomach or dizzy with brain zaps any longer. I’m still very tired and no interest in anything, but I can tell I’m getting climbing out of this hole. You will not make it if you do not go slow. This was my second attempt after stopping cold turkey the first time and thought I was going to die! Please taper slowly, you will have less withdrawal and will be safer on your body. Good luck, prayers for you.

@farmboy @babydoll Thanks to you both for the encouragement! I’m not going cold turkey, but I’m hoping to get off completely in a month. My doctor prescribed me Prozac as well, but I also have a lot of Benadryl at the ready bc that’s always helped me in the past. Were you guys able to work/function during your withdrawal?

@mmesco Welcome. I hope you find some hope and support being part of this group. I am, right now, tapering off the benzodiazepine clonazepam. When I am through with that, in about 3months, I will begin to taper from the Effexor as well. Right now I am on 150mg so I hope it takes less than three months. I wish you the best of luck on your taper. Please continue to let us know how you are doing!

Unfortunately I've been off work for the last month and half. I don't want to discourage you but going from 300 to 0 in a month might be way to fast. Read some previous post on here about how some people has done it. Lots of good ideas. 300 to 0 might actually take months to do. Good luck and best wishes. Like I say the people on here won't lead you astray. They are here to help.

@mmesco
I hope your not serious about tapering “Aggressively.” You have been on a high dose for a long time and trying to get off it fast is something you’ll no doubt regret. After 8 years, what’s the hurry? Read back on this thread and see how many people successfully stopped taking this drug quickly, I doubt you will find anyone.
Jake