Many people use antidepressants because they are a vital component of their mental health. If you need them, you shouldn’t stop using them. However, you have to ask, “Are antidepressants addictive and, therefore, something I shouldn’t take?” To answer that, you need to know about the addiction risks associated with these drugs. Bayview Recovery can provide you with the support you need to find out if you’re doing your best possible with these drugs.

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So, Are Antidepressants Addictive?

Antidepressants have some key addiction concerns, but not in the same way as other drugs known for their addiction risks. For example, antidepressants are not as addictive as heroin or cocaine, but they do carry some key risks. With this addiction, you are not likely to feel intense cravings or withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the drug. Most of the time, these drugs do not create a sense of a high, which is often the foundation of traditional addiction development.

How are antidepressants addictive, then? In this sense of the word, antidepressants are not addictive. They do not change the physical makeup or the chemistry of the brain. They do not cause a trigger in the reward system within the brain, either. Yet, you do become dependent on them to function normally and within the desired level. That’s where they can often feel like an addiction.

Antidepressants and Physical Dependency

Antidepressants can create physical dependency. You may feel very different if you stop using the drugs in the wrong manner. If you stop taking a medication that you have become accustomed to using, your body will react. Sometimes, this can create physical symptoms such as tremors or flu-like experiences. Other times, it creates substantial mental health risks, including depression episodes.

Because they lack any euphoric rush, though, you’re not likely to do “whatever it takes” to find the drugs. More so, it’s unlikely for a person who stops taking antidepressants to engage in risky behaviors. However, your body is dependent on them to a degree, and that means stopping their use isn’t a good idea.

Should You Stop Taking Antidepressants?

When you consider whether antidepressants are addictive, keep in mind that there is a reason you are taking them. For many people, they offer benefits, including:

Better control over daily life
Improved mental health
A more functional life
Minimized episodes of instability
Control over mental illness symptoms

However, doctors prescribe these medications to many people who do not need them. If that is your situation, you can find help to stop using them safely.

How Can You Get Help for Antidepressants?

Are antidepressants addictive to you and influence you to have a negative outlook? If so, you may be able to find better medications or enhanced overall mental health at Bayview Recovery.

Our team provides support for those who need it, including dual diagnosis treatment if you are using drugs or alcohol in addition to having mental health conditions. We offer:

With our team, we can help you to improve your overall mental health needs. This treatment may include addressing symptoms you have of depression. It may also mean creating more balance for your medication use. Some people may find they do not need antidepressants, but others will find the right balance of them can improve their quality of life. Every situation is unique. That is why our trusted and experienced counselors offer a range of treatment options to support your needs and goals. We encourage you to reach out to our team to learn more about the medications you are taking and whether they are the best choice for your health.

Don’t Stop Taking Your Meds: Turn to Bayview Recovery First

If you’re asking if antidepressants are addictive, you may know that this is not what you want for your life and health. You shouldn’t just stop taking your medications, but you can reach out to our team at Bayview Recovery to learn more about the type of support and solutions we can offer to you. Call our dedicated, licensed, and experienced team at 855.478.3650 to learn more about how we can help you.