Health and Me

Riya Baibhawi

Should You Wash Your Face With Salt Water?

In the realm of skincare, home remedies have long been a go-to for many, and one such trend gaining popularity is washing the face with <span>salt water</span>. From acne reduction to skin detoxification, the humble <span>salt</span> solution is being praised on social media. But does it really live up to the hype? And more importantly, is it safe for everyday use?

 Salt water, particularly when derived from natural sea water, contains minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These elements are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This is one reason why a dip in the ocean often leaves the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Some people replicate this effect at home by mixing sea salt with warm water and using it as a facial rinse.

 Dermatologists agree that salt water does have certain benefits—when used in moderation. “Salt water can help cleanse the skin, reduce oiliness, and calm mild inflammation,” says Dr. Nisha Verma, a Mumbai-based dermatologist. “It can be particularly useful for people with acne-prone or oily skin because salt has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce bacteria and unclog pores.”

 However, experts caution against daily use or using high concentrations of salt. Salt is a natural dehydrator—it draws water out of cells. This means overuse can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, or even flaking. People with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin are especially advised to steer clear of salt-based treatments unless under medical supervision.

 In a controlled routine, salt water can be used as a toner or rinse a few times a week. The solution should be mild—usually one teaspoon of sea salt dissolved in half a cup of warm water. After application, it's crucial to moisturize to restore the skin’s hydration barrier.

 Anecdotal reports also suggest that salt water may help reduce blackheads and tighten pores, but these claims lack solid scientific backing. “Most of the positive effects are temporary,” says Dr. Verma. “It’s not a substitute for a good skincare routine or prescribed treatment for chronic conditions like acne or rosacea.”

 There’s also a growing trend of using Himalayan pink salt or Dead Sea salt for their mineral content. While these may offer a slight edge due to their rich composition, the core principles remain the same—moderation and proper dilution are key.

 For those with skin infections or open wounds, dermatologists strongly discourage the use of salt water. It may sting and irritate the area, delaying healing. Similarly, those undergoing treatments like chemical peels or retinol-based regimens should avoid salt rinses as it can lead to increased sensitivity.

 In conclusion, while washing your face with salt water may offer certain skin benefits, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Used correctly, it can be a helpful occasional addition to your skincare regimen—but relying on it daily or overusing it could do more harm than good.

 As always, consult a dermatologist before incorporating any new treatment into your routine—especially one that could affect your skin’s natural barrier.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

Skin & Hair

Salt

Salt Water

Himalayan Salt

Skin care

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In the realm of skincare, home remedies have long been a go-to for many, and one such trend gaining popularity is washing the face with salt water. From acne reduction to skin detoxification, the humble salt solution is being praised on social media. But does it really live up to the hype? And more importantly, is it safe for everyday use? Salt water, particularly when derived from natural sea water, contains minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These elements are known for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This is one reason why a dip in the ocean often leaves the skin feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Some people replicate this effect at home by mixing sea salt with warm water and using it as a facial rinse. Dermatologists agree that salt water does have certain benefits—when used in moderation. “Salt water can help cleanse the skin, reduce oiliness, and calm mild inflammation,” says Dr. Nisha Verma, a Mumbai-based dermatologist. “It can be particularly useful for people with acne-prone or oily skin because salt has natural antiseptic properties that can help reduce bacteria and unclog pores.” However, experts caution against daily use or using high concentrations of salt. Salt is a natural dehydrator—it draws water out of cells. This means overuse can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, or even flaking. People with dry, sensitive, or eczema-prone skin are especially advised to steer clear of salt-based treatments unless under medical supervision. In a controlled routine, salt water can be used as a toner or rinse a few times a week. The solution should be mild—usually one teaspoon of sea salt dissolved in half a cup of warm water. After application, it's crucial to moisturize to restore the skin’s hydration barrier. Anecdotal reports also suggest that salt water may help reduce blackheads and tighten pores, but these claims lack solid scientific backing. “Most of the positive effects are temporary,” says Dr. Verma. “It’s not a substitute for a good skincare routine or prescribed treatment for chronic conditions like acne or rosacea.” There’s also a growing trend of using Himalayan pink salt or Dead Sea salt for their mineral content. While these may offer a slight edge due to their rich composition, the core principles remain the same—moderation and proper dilution are key. For those with skin infections or open wounds, dermatologists strongly discourage the use of salt water. It may sting and irritate the area, delaying healing. Similarly, those undergoing treatments like chemical peels or retinol-based regimens should avoid salt rinses as it can lead to increased sensitivity. In conclusion, while washing your face with salt water may offer certain skin benefits, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Used correctly, it can be a helpful occasional addition to your skincare regimen—but relying on it daily or overusing it could do more harm than good. As always, consult a dermatologist before incorporating any new treatment into your routine—especially one that could affect your skin’s natural barrier.

should you wash your face with salt water?

Ishita Roy

South Asia Continues To Remain The 'Global Epicentre' Of Anaemia Among Girls

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South Asia has emerged as the global epicentre of <span>anemia</span> among adolescent girls and women, with more than 259 million currently affected, according to a joint warning issued by the United Nations agencies and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). 

The condition, often overlooked, is not only a health concern—it’s a signal of deeper systemic failures across health, nutrition, and education sectors.

Anemia impairs the body's ability to carry oxygen, leading to chronic fatigue, weakened immunity, and in severe cases, complications during pregnancy and childbirth. It also limits educational attainment and economic participation, reinforcing gender inequality and poverty.

The impact extends beyond individuals. An estimated 40% of the world’s low birth weight cases are linked to maternal anemia, contributing to poor childhood growth, delayed cognitive development, and lifelong disadvantages. 

In economic terms, anemia costs South Asia a staggering $32.5 billion every year, draining resources and limiting regional development.

Despite its scale, anemia is both preventable and treatable. Public health experts emphasize that the tools already exist: regular iron and folic acid supplementation, diets rich in iron and essential vitamins, clean water and sanitation, deworming, and access to quality maternal health care.

However, to make meaningful progress, countries must take an integrated, multi-sectoral approach—linking health, nutrition, education, and social protection systems.

<h4>Countries And Their Strategies To Combat This Issue</h4>

Several countries in the region are already demonstrating how focused interventions can bring results.

Sri Lanka, where nearly one in five women of reproductive age is anemic, is expanding its national nutrition programmes, targeting high-burden districts with stronger maternal services.

India has begun integrating iron supplementation into school and antenatal care in high-prevalence states, aiming to reach adolescent girls and expectant mothers directly.

Pakistan is piloting community-based nutrition and reproductive health services, improving early detection and follow-up care in rural areas.

Bangladesh is leveraging school systems to deliver fortified meals and health education to adolescents, with ministries of health, education, and agriculture working in tandem.

Smaller nations like the Maldives and Bhutan are also stepping up, focusing on early prevention, public awareness, and food fortification. Both have invested in data-driven anemia monitoring and inter-ministerial collaboration.

Nepal, meanwhile, has shown what sustained, community-driven action can achieve. Since 2016, the country has reduced anemia among women of reproductive age by 7%, with particularly notable improvements in low-income regions. Much of this progress is credited to the efforts of female community health volunteers, who counsel families, connect them to services, and distribute nutrition support packages such as the Sutkeri Poshan Koseli—a food and cash support scheme for new mothers.

The new report emphasizes that ending anemia is not just a medical goal—it’s a developmental imperative. While governments must lead the charge with strong policies and investments, meaningful change also requires engagement from communities, schools, health workers, and families.

Integrated health systems, targeted data, and cross-sector action can help South Asia’s girls and women break the cycle of malnutrition and unlock their full potential. Ultimately, addressing anemia is about more than preventing disease—it's about building resilient communities, stronger economies, and a healthier future for all.

anemia

health and wellness

anemia in south asia

un report on anemia

anemia in girls

South Asia has emerged as the global epicentre of anemia among adolescent girls and women, with more than 259 million currently affected, according to a joint warning issued by the United Nations agencies and the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The condition, often overlooked, is not only a health concern—it’s a signal of deeper systemic failures across health, nutrition, and education sectors.The Hidden Toll of AnemiaAnemia impairs the body's ability to carry oxygen, leading to chronic fatigue, weakened immunity, and in severe cases, complications during pregnancy and childbirth. It also limits educational attainment and economic participation, reinforcing gender inequality and poverty.The impact extends beyond individuals. An estimated 40% of the world’s low birth weight cases are linked to maternal anemia, contributing to poor childhood growth, delayed cognitive development, and lifelong disadvantages. In economic terms, anemia costs South Asia a staggering $32.5 billion every year, draining resources and limiting regional development.It Is A Preventable ConditionDespite its scale, anemia is both preventable and treatable. Public health experts emphasize that the tools already exist: regular iron and folic acid supplementation, diets rich in iron and essential vitamins, clean water and sanitation, deworming, and access to quality maternal health care.However, to make meaningful progress, countries must take an integrated, multi-sectoral approach—linking health, nutrition, education, and social protection systems.Countries And Their Strategies To Combat This IssueSeveral countries in the region are already demonstrating how focused interventions can bring results.Sri Lanka, where nearly one in five women of reproductive age is anemic, is expanding its national nutrition programmes, targeting high-burden districts with stronger maternal services.India has begun integrating iron supplementation into school and antenatal care in high-prevalence states, aiming to reach adolescent girls and expectant mothers directly.Pakistan is piloting community-based nutrition and reproductive health services, improving early detection and follow-up care in rural areas.Bangladesh is leveraging school systems to deliver fortified meals and health education to adolescents, with ministries of health, education, and agriculture working in tandem.Smaller nations like the Maldives and Bhutan are also stepping up, focusing on early prevention, public awareness, and food fortification. Both have invested in data-driven anemia monitoring and inter-ministerial collaboration.Nepal, meanwhile, has shown what sustained, community-driven action can achieve. Since 2016, the country has reduced anemia among women of reproductive age by 7%, with particularly notable improvements in low-income regions. Much of this progress is credited to the efforts of female community health volunteers, who counsel families, connect them to services, and distribute nutrition support packages such as the Sutkeri Poshan Koseli—a food and cash support scheme for new mothers.Why Is This Report Important?The new report emphasizes that ending anemia is not just a medical goal—it’s a developmental imperative. While governments must lead the charge with strong policies and investments, meaningful change also requires engagement from communities, schools, health workers, and families.Integrated health systems, targeted data, and cross-sector action can help South Asia’s girls and women break the cycle of malnutrition and unlock their full potential. Ultimately, addressing anemia is about more than preventing disease—it's about building resilient communities, stronger economies, and a healthier future for all.

south asia continues to remain the 'global epicentre' of anemia among girls

Aarushi Bhadury

Slowing Biological Aging May Be Possible Through This Blood Therapy: Study

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Everything around is us responsible for how well we age. From what kind of food we eat, what kind of lifestyle we lead to what kind of air we breath. 

Many people want to live longer and healthier, often trying things like special diets or supplements. But would you ever consider paying a lot of money to have your blood's liquid part, called plasma, replaced? 

This procedure, known as <span>plasma exchange therapy</span>, is becoming popular, especially among the wealthy and those who are into extreme "<span>biohacking</span>" (trying unconventional methods to improve their health). However, the question arises, does it actually help you live longer? 

A small, recent study published in the journal Aging Cell suggests it might have some anti-aging benefits. However, experts warn that we still need a lot more research to be sure. 

<h2>What Exactly Is Plasma Exchange Therapy? </h2>

Think of plasma exchange therapy as a "blood cleanse." Here's how it works:

<ul><li>Medical staff take blood out of your body.</li><li>They then separate and remove your old plasma, which contains various substances.</li><li>This old plasma is replaced with new plasma from a donor or a special solution (usually saltwater and protein).</li><li>Finally, your "cleaned" blood, with its new plasma, is put back into your body.</li></ul>

This treatment has been used for a long time to help with various illnesses, like blood problems, autoimmune diseases (where your body attacks itself), and nerve disorders. However, using it to slow down aging is a very new idea that hasn't been fully proven yet. 

A recent, small study offers more support for the idea of plasma exchange as an anti-aging treatment. Forty-two healthy adults, with an average age of 65, underwent the procedure multiple times over several months. Some received a regular replacement fluid, while others were given extra immune antibodies. A small group received a fake treatment for comparison. 

After the treatment, researchers used different ways to measure the participants' biological age—a concept that suggests your body can be physically older or younger than your actual years. The group that didn't get the treatment continued to age normally. However, the plasma exchange group showed some signs of reversal in aging. 

Those who received plasma exchange combined with immune antibodies saw the biggest effect, appearing biologically 2.6 years younger on average. Those who only had monthly plasma exchange looked about 1.3 years younger. While promising, the researchers are careful to say they don't know for sure if this means people will actually live longer. 

<h2>Does Plasma Exchange Really Work for Longevity? </h2>

Even though the new study is exciting, it has some important limitations. It was small and relatively short. Also, the idea of biological age itself is still new, and there isn't one perfect way to measure it, which can lead to varying results. 

Experts also point out that the participants in the study might have made other healthy lifestyle changes, which could have influenced the results. At this point, it's still just a guess whether plasma exchange therapy will truly help people live longer. Many experts agree that while plasma exchange is <span>safe and effective</span> for treating certain diseases, there isn't enough solid information yet to recommend that healthy people spend a lot of money on it just to live longer. Even the scientists who helped create the procedure advise against it for healthy adults right now. 

Biological Aging

Plasma Exchange Therapy

biohacking

Plasma Exchange for Longevity

safe and effective

anti aging benefits

Everything around is us responsible for how well we age. From what kind of food we eat, what kind of lifestyle we lead to what kind of air we breath. Many people want to live longer and healthier, often trying things like special diets or supplements. But would you ever consider paying a lot of money to have your blood's liquid part, called plasma, replaced? This procedure, known as plasma exchange therapy, is becoming popular, especially among the wealthy and those who are into extreme "biohacking" (trying unconventional methods to improve their health). However, the question arises, does it actually help you live longer? A small, recent study published in the journal Aging Cell suggests it might have some anti-aging benefits. However, experts warn that we still need a lot more research to be sure. What Exactly Is Plasma Exchange Therapy? Think of plasma exchange therapy as a "blood cleanse." Here's how it works:Medical staff take blood out of your body.They then separate and remove your old plasma, which contains various substances.This old plasma is replaced with new plasma from a donor or a special solution (usually saltwater and protein).Finally, your "cleaned" blood, with its new plasma, is put back into your body.This treatment has been used for a long time to help with various illnesses, like blood problems, autoimmune diseases (where your body attacks itself), and nerve disorders. However, using it to slow down aging is a very new idea that hasn't been fully proven yet. What the Latest Study Found A recent, small study offers more support for the idea of plasma exchange as an anti-aging treatment. Forty-two healthy adults, with an average age of 65, underwent the procedure multiple times over several months. Some received a regular replacement fluid, while others were given extra immune antibodies. A small group received a fake treatment for comparison. After the treatment, researchers used different ways to measure the participants' biological age—a concept that suggests your body can be physically older or younger than your actual years. The group that didn't get the treatment continued to age normally. However, the plasma exchange group showed some signs of reversal in aging. Those who received plasma exchange combined with immune antibodies saw the biggest effect, appearing biologically 2.6 years younger on average. Those who only had monthly plasma exchange looked about 1.3 years younger. While promising, the researchers are careful to say they don't know for sure if this means people will actually live longer. Does Plasma Exchange Really Work for Longevity? Even though the new study is exciting, it has some important limitations. It was small and relatively short. Also, the idea of biological age itself is still new, and there isn't one perfect way to measure it, which can lead to varying results. Experts also point out that the participants in the study might have made other healthy lifestyle changes, which could have influenced the results. At this point, it's still just a guess whether plasma exchange therapy will truly help people live longer. Many experts agree that while plasma exchange is safe and effective for treating certain diseases, there isn't enough solid information yet to recommend that healthy people spend a lot of money on it just to live longer. Even the scientists who helped create the procedure advise against it for healthy adults right now. 

slowing biological aging may be possible through this blood therapy: study

Tanya Dutt

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For years, <span>stopping antidepressants</span> was considered a relatively minor medical event—just a temporary adjustment phase. Official guidelines, particularly in the UK and the US, once described withdrawal symptoms as “brief and mild.” But now, emerging research is painting a very different picture—one that could affect millions of long-term users.

Recent findings suggest that withdrawing from antidepressants, especially after prolonged use, can trigger severe and long-lasting symptoms, sometimes lasting months or even years. Despite mounting evidence, some recent reviews—funded in part by pharmaceutical ties—continue to rely on outdated, short-term studies that don’t reflect the real-world experiences of long-term patients.

The modern class of antidepressants—SSRIs and SNRIs—were introduced in the 1980s and ’90s. When regulatory guidelines were first drafted, they leaned heavily on industry-funded clinical trials, where participants had taken the medications for only 8 to 12 weeks.

Because withdrawal symptoms in those short-term trials were limited and often transient, major healthcare bodies like NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK) assumed the same would hold true for all patients.

That assumption, however, ignored the experiences of millions of people who were on antidepressants for much longer periods.

A comprehensive new study of NHS patients in the UK has shed light on the scale and severity of antidepressant withdrawal. The findings reveal that patients who had been on antidepressants for more than two years were ten times more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms compared to those who had taken the medication for less than six months. Moreover, the likelihood of experiencing severe symptoms increased fivefold in long-term users. Perhaps most strikingly, symptoms that lasted for three months or more were found to be 18 times more common among those who had used antidepressants for extended periods.

In contrast, those who took antidepressants for six months or less mostly experienced mild and short-lived symptoms. Around 75% reported mild or no withdrawal, and only one in four had difficulty stopping but for long-term users, it’s a different story altogether. Two-thirds reported moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms, and nearly a third had symptoms that persisted for over three months.

In some cases, withdrawal effects were so debilitating that patients sought emergency care.

Against this backdrop, a newly published review in JAMA Psychiatry is drawing criticism. The review—which includes authors with known financial ties to pharmaceutical companies—relied on 11 short-term studies, most involving people who took antidepressants for 8 to 12 weeks. Only one study included participants on the medication for more than six months.

Not surprisingly, the review concluded that withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants are not clinically significant. It even went so far as to suggest the symptoms might be caused by the “nocebo effect”—the idea that negative expectations can create physical symptoms.

But experts argue that this reasoning is flawed and potentially harmful. The review failed to account for long-term users, excluded several studies with high withdrawal rates, and assumed that common symptoms like dizziness or fatigue are indistinguishable from genuine withdrawal effects.

Another glaring issue? The authors treated withdrawal symptoms reported by people stopping a placebo as equivalent to those reported by people stopping real antidepressants—despite clear evidence that the intensity, duration, and impact of symptoms differ significantly between the two. According to recent investigations:

<ul><li>In England, 2 million people have been taking antidepressants for over five years.</li><li>In the United States, that number is at least 25 million.</li></ul>

That’s tens of millions of people whose withdrawal experiences are underrepresented in medical literature and underserved by health systems.

To use an analogy, relying on eight-week antidepressant studies to predict withdrawal is like testing car safety at 5 km/h, when most people drive at 60 km/h. It simply doesn’t capture the full risk.

<h2>Is Antidepressant Withdrawal A Real Thing?</h2>

Yes, antidepressant withdrawal is real—especially if you stop the medication abruptly after taking it for more than four to six weeks. These symptoms, also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, can last for several weeks and vary depending on the type of antidepressant.

Importantly, experiencing withdrawal doesn’t mean you’re addicted. Addiction involves compulsive use, cravings, and harmful consequences—none of which apply to antidepressants.

To avoid uncomfortable withdrawal effects, always consult your doctor before stopping. Most healthcare providers recommend gradually tapering the dose over weeks or months to help your body adjust. In some cases, a temporary switch to another medication might be advised to ease the transition.

If you're switching to a new antidepressant, your doctor may overlap medications to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Since withdrawal can mimic a relapse of depression, it's essential to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider. If symptoms of depression return, your doctor may suggest restarting treatment or exploring alternative therapies.

Always follow a medical plan when discontinuing antidepressants—never stop them on your own.

Withdrawal symptoms can vary, but often include:

<ul><li>Dizziness or “brain zaps”</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Anxiety and panic</li><li>Mood swings</li><li>Insomnia</li><li>Irritability</li><li>Sensory disturbances (like sensitivity to light or sound)</li></ul>

For some, these symptoms are manageable. But for others—especially those stopping medication after years of use—they can be overwhelming and life-altering.

Withdrawal from antidepressants is real, and it’s often far more difficult than current medical literature suggests—especially for long-term users. Reviews that lean on short-term, pharmaceutical-funded data do little to help the millions of people struggling silently.

<span>Mental health</span> treatment should never be a one-way street. People deserve a clear roadmap for both starting and stopping antidepressants safely, compassionately, and with evidence-based support.

mental health

antidepressant withdrawal symptoms

stopping antidepressants

ssri withdrawal

long term antidepressant use

antidepressant side effects

tapering antidepressants safely

antidepressant withdrawal duration

For years, stopping antidepressants was considered a relatively minor medical event—just a temporary adjustment phase. Official guidelines, particularly in the UK and the US, once described withdrawal symptoms as “brief and mild.” But now, emerging research is painting a very different picture—one that could affect millions of long-term users.Recent findings suggest that withdrawing from antidepressants, especially after prolonged use, can trigger severe and long-lasting symptoms, sometimes lasting months or even years. Despite mounting evidence, some recent reviews—funded in part by pharmaceutical ties—continue to rely on outdated, short-term studies that don’t reflect the real-world experiences of long-term patients.The modern class of antidepressants—SSRIs and SNRIs—were introduced in the 1980s and ’90s. When regulatory guidelines were first drafted, they leaned heavily on industry-funded clinical trials, where participants had taken the medications for only 8 to 12 weeks.Because withdrawal symptoms in those short-term trials were limited and often transient, major healthcare bodies like NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence in the UK) assumed the same would hold true for all patients.That assumption, however, ignored the experiences of millions of people who were on antidepressants for much longer periods.A comprehensive new study of NHS patients in the UK has shed light on the scale and severity of antidepressant withdrawal. The findings reveal that patients who had been on antidepressants for more than two years were ten times more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms compared to those who had taken the medication for less than six months. Moreover, the likelihood of experiencing severe symptoms increased fivefold in long-term users. Perhaps most strikingly, symptoms that lasted for three months or more were found to be 18 times more common among those who had used antidepressants for extended periods.In contrast, those who took antidepressants for six months or less mostly experienced mild and short-lived symptoms. Around 75% reported mild or no withdrawal, and only one in four had difficulty stopping but for long-term users, it’s a different story altogether. Two-thirds reported moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms, and nearly a third had symptoms that persisted for over three months.In some cases, withdrawal effects were so debilitating that patients sought emergency care.Against this backdrop, a newly published review in JAMA Psychiatry is drawing criticism. The review—which includes authors with known financial ties to pharmaceutical companies—relied on 11 short-term studies, most involving people who took antidepressants for 8 to 12 weeks. Only one study included participants on the medication for more than six months.Not surprisingly, the review concluded that withdrawal symptoms from antidepressants are not clinically significant. It even went so far as to suggest the symptoms might be caused by the “nocebo effect”—the idea that negative expectations can create physical symptoms.But experts argue that this reasoning is flawed and potentially harmful. The review failed to account for long-term users, excluded several studies with high withdrawal rates, and assumed that common symptoms like dizziness or fatigue are indistinguishable from genuine withdrawal effects.Another glaring issue? The authors treated withdrawal symptoms reported by people stopping a placebo as equivalent to those reported by people stopping real antidepressants—despite clear evidence that the intensity, duration, and impact of symptoms differ significantly between the two. According to recent investigations:In England, 2 million people have been taking antidepressants for over five years.In the United States, that number is at least 25 million.That’s tens of millions of people whose withdrawal experiences are underrepresented in medical literature and underserved by health systems.To use an analogy, relying on eight-week antidepressant studies to predict withdrawal is like testing car safety at 5 km/h, when most people drive at 60 km/h. It simply doesn’t capture the full risk.Is Antidepressant Withdrawal A Real Thing?Yes, antidepressant withdrawal is real—especially if you stop the medication abruptly after taking it for more than four to six weeks. These symptoms, also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, can last for several weeks and vary depending on the type of antidepressant.Importantly, experiencing withdrawal doesn’t mean you’re addicted. Addiction involves compulsive use, cravings, and harmful consequences—none of which apply to antidepressants.To avoid uncomfortable withdrawal effects, always consult your doctor before stopping. Most healthcare providers recommend gradually tapering the dose over weeks or months to help your body adjust. In some cases, a temporary switch to another medication might be advised to ease the transition.If you're switching to a new antidepressant, your doctor may overlap medications to prevent withdrawal symptoms.Since withdrawal can mimic a relapse of depression, it's essential to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider. If symptoms of depression return, your doctor may suggest restarting treatment or exploring alternative therapies.Always follow a medical plan when discontinuing antidepressants—never stop them on your own.What Withdrawal Feels Like?Withdrawal symptoms can vary, but often include:Dizziness or “brain zaps”NauseaHeadachesAnxiety and panicMood swingsInsomniaIrritabilitySensory disturbances (like sensitivity to light or sound)For some, these symptoms are manageable. But for others—especially those stopping medication after years of use—they can be overwhelming and life-altering.Withdrawal from antidepressants is real, and it’s often far more difficult than current medical literature suggests—especially for long-term users. Reviews that lean on short-term, pharmaceutical-funded data do little to help the millions of people struggling silently.Mental health treatment should never be a one-way street. People deserve a clear roadmap for both starting and stopping antidepressants safely, compassionately, and with evidence-based support.

why stopping antidepressants can be harder, here's how withdrawal could last longer than you think

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Should You Wash Your Face With Salt Water?

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South Asia Continues To Remain The 'Global Epicentre' Of Anemia Among Girls

Slowing Biological Aging May Be Possible Through This Blood Therapy: Study

Why Stopping Antidepressants Can Be Harder, Here's How Withdrawal Could Last Longer Than You Think

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