How patient expectations play a key role in experiences of stopping antidepressants in practice

In this episode, we talk to Carina Benthin, a psychologist and PhD student based at Helmut-Schmidt University. 

Title of paper: What helps and what hinders antidepressant discontinuation? Qualitative analysis of patients’ experiences and expectations

Available at: https://doi.org/10.3399/BJGP.2023.0020

Long-term antidepressant use is increasing, including among those patients who may consider discontinuation. In this study, patients with remitted major depressive disorder and long-term antidepressant use reported negative expectations about discontinuation. These expectations were partly shaped by their previous negative experiences, which persisted despite a wish to stop antidepressants, and hindered discontinuation. The findings of this study highlight patients’ need for information about treatment discontinuation, and professional support and structure throughout discontinuation, while taking into account their individual expectations and previous experiences.