I am tapering off of Effexor now, and recently wrote about my own experience with brain zaps and withdrawal. Terrifying. I have obsessive compulsive disorder, and am someone who does need medication. If I don’t take it, my symptoms come roaring back. That said, specific therapy (exposure with response prevention and cognitive behavioral therapy) have helped me tremendously as well.

You’re right, everyone has their own story to tell and decisions to make. I respect yours. Thank you for sharing it.