I lasted 6 months, med free. During that time I jogged once or twice a day. Usually cried while jogging. Lost 19 pounds from anxiety. (And exercise). Developed phantom smells, vertigo. Just a wreck. I think I’m a person who needs meds and that’s that. I’m back on zoloft and seroquel and feel better 🙂

I hear you. Venlafaxine withdrawal wreaks havoc on brain chemistry including the emotions. The emotional responses I've had to others stories though are I think genuine and quite 'rational'. From a profound sense of relief knowing it's not 'just me', to deep empathy for the pain and suffering of others, I've cried many times reading this thread. That someone's little burst of sunshine can illicit pangs of longing makes sense too... it's a very 'raw' state we are in. I hope you're touched by your own sunbeam soon. And please know that it lasted only a moment - but even a 'glimpse' of a brighter future is enough to keep me pushing on on towards a better day... wish you all the best!

@cp6401 have you been off 7-8 days of Venlafaxine? I’m on day 3 and it’s manageable!
I definitely have started crying too! Mostly in the evening and yes, over sad posts and such!
Keep strong my friend! We’ve got this! 💕