Anti-Depressant for PAWS?

[FindingPeace]

I'm curious if an antidepressant would be effective for combating PAWS?

I have been experiencing crushing anxiety and depression after quitting B-F

or is it useless?

(Have cymbalta on hand)

 

[bakeryrogercow]

I can give you an anecdotal report regarding myself. I came off opiates after a 3 year habit. Once physical stuff was gone, PAWS hit hard. Crushing, indescribable anxiety and depression. I know exactly what you are talking about.

I went on Wellbutrin. A very, very slow taper up. Started with 75mg/day for 2 weeks, then 150mg for 1 month, now 300 mg indefinitely. I can tell you the wellbutrin was an absolute god send for me. Made an enormous difference.

 

[bdomihizayka]

It's best to try and not take anything at all that's going to manipulate the chemicals in your brain, as it's already having a hard time trying to achieve homeostasis once again after the drug abuse. Exercise has been proven time and time again to be more effective than antidepressants in studies. Sure, we are a lazy society and always want a quick fix, but you give it 2 months (it takes time- youre not going to be feeling completely better after only a week or two of exercising) of 4-5 times a week in the gym or out walking/ jogging, busting your ass, meaning your heart is pounding and your drenched in seat after every workout. No pussyfooted 2mph walks- that doesn't count lol I wouldn't even think of adding another variable into the equation. You're just going to have to come off of that someday as well, and antidepressant withdrawals aren't any more fun than opiate withdrawals.

But if you really cannot stand to wait- an antidepressant is always a viable option.