Hi, I'm Rose8

April 25, 2026

Hi everyone! I was on Lexapro for about 10 years, 20 mg for some time and 10 mg others. At my own request, I was told to taper straight from 10 mg to zero in just six weeks. It’s now been three months since I stopped, and I’m dealing with pretty significant anxiety plus some depression, especially the week before and during my period. I found TaperCommunity because the withdrawal hit harder and lasted longer than I expected, and I’m hoping to connect with others who understand, share tips for managing these waves (especially the cycle-related ones), and get support while my nervous system stabilizes. Looking forward to learning from all of you! ❤️

4 Replies

JulesStaffApr 26

Community Anchor

Welcome, Rose8, welcome to the community. Six weeks from 10 mg to zero? I'm sorry that you were told to taper so fast. No wonder your nervous system is speaking up! What you’re describing, especially the waves and the cycle-related intensifying, is something many here have gone through. You’re not imagining it, and you’re definitely not failing. Withdrawal is tough! I’m glad you found your way to TaperCommunity. There’s a lot of lived wisdom here, and people who understand the strange rhythm of waves and windows. Be gentle with yourself, three months is still early.

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BasedStaffApr 26

Community AnchorEffexor

Hey Rose! Welcome to the community, youve come to the right place. Unfortunately withdrawal is commonly understated, so your story is more common than we know. Looking forward to helling you on your journey. Check out the check ins in My Taper and let us know how youre doing over time.

Creator of Taper Community, here to help you.

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CatinaApr 26

Community AnchorEffexor

Hi @Rose8, we're glad to have you here! I'm sorry you were tapered so quickly. It's not your fault. Most doctors are not properly trained in safe deprescribing. Having to deal with withdrawal anxiety and depression along with monthly hormonal changes is a lot...you have my sympathy. I used to deal with horrific PMDD, which is what led to my being prescribed psych drugs in the first place. Here are some links that you might find helpful: Anxiety: https://taper.community/thread/3613d8b1-99e9-4991-8c0d-ec96ba7534ad Depression: https://taper.community/thread/c981af8f-22d3-43c0-8342-11303c5a442c EFT Tapping: https://taper.community/thread/3c6f1a16-3d21-4077-9ed5-8267209ffca3 How to Regulate Your Nervous System: https://taper.community/thread/ec72f5e5-39fe-4f0e-b3c9-083b3e99d1c3 Free CBT Training: https://taper.community/thread/31d4a5cb-737e-4eec-8449-1894a8a9747c Things to Use Caution with During Withdrawal: https://taper.community/thread/57d0fb51-6e6e-4517-9d3d-1dd2f2e3880c I'm glad you realize that things will eventually stabilize and get easier for you. Your poor brain just needs some time and extra TLC right now. Hang in there! We're here whenever you need support. Catina 💜

Venlafaxine (tapering) - Current dose 17.28 mg
Trazodone - 50 mg
Synthroid - 25 mcg

“Your brain and body know how to heal. Trust the process and keep going.”

Please Note: I am not a healthcare professional. Any advice given is based on personal experience and that of others in the lay withdrawal community.

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CatinaApr 26

Community AnchorEffexor

Hi....here is some information about navigating withdrawal and monthly hormonal changes. I hope it helps! https://taper.community/thread/02e5be8d-ebd0-417c-939d-bdf9cb269b19

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