Life After Meds

I sit down with my friend Elissa to hear her full withdrawal healing story: 28 years on psychiatric medications, 47 different drugs, five hospitalizations, and what finally changed. She shares what got her through the worst of it and what life feels like on the other side.Elissa is now a withdrawal coach at Life After Meds! Book a session with her.Give her channel a follow: Healing After PsychiatryBlog version: On 47 Meds Over 28 Years: Here's How She HealedWas this video helpful? Leave a tip.If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are support hotlines around the world.0:00 The walk-in clinic, Paxil, and how it all began; 4:28 Lonely with a panic disorder label; 9:54 Postpartum, a family history question, and the bipolar one diagnosis; 17:11 28 years on the medication treadmill; 22:26 47 meds; 28:01 "The only thing I haven't tried is no meds"; 33:36 The taper and what she didn't know; 41:21 Quitting her job and hitting the floor; 47:46 Post-it notes and borrowed thoughts; 55:31 Windows, waves, and Jekyll and Hyde days; 1:02:56 The long dark wave and the windows that followed; 1:11:14 Feeling joy for the first time in forever; 1:18:11 What she knows now about those 28 yearsHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer.Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me.

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetI spent 10 years on psychiatric medication not knowing what I was missing emotionally. Then withdrawal stripped everything bare. Here's what the withdrawal brain does to your self-perception, and what emotional healing actually looks and feels like on the other side.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/what-the-other-side-actually-feels-likeWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country00:00 Will I be okay emotionally without meds?02:16 Ten years in the medium range02:48 Dark clouds that wouldn't lift08:18 The bad taper11:43 The withdrawal brain15:47 Reassurance, prayer cards, and DoorDash rides18:54 Rounding the bend at 18 months19:29 Life on life's terms23:48 You are giving yourself a giftHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with meI parented three kids through protracted psychiatric drug withdrawal. In this video, I share the warped self-view, the grief, the suicidal ideation, and what helped our family survive it. I also share how being honest with my kids changed everything, and what age-appropriate honesty actually looked like for us. Part 2 covers the anxiety and terror side of parenting through withdrawal. Blog version Was this video helpful? Leave a tipIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are support hotlines around the world. 00:00 For parents who are in the trenches of both 00:52 Who Joanna is and what she came through 01:44 The thunderstorm of self-blame withdrawal creates 05:05 "Worst dirtbag or not, I'm staying alive for my kids" 08:39 Grieving the parent you used to be 11:23 Letting go of the cushioned childhood dream 15:39 Naming it to your kids and watching them breathe 18:02 Brownies, small wins, and healing out loud 18:38 Your body will figure out how to healHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetShame can be one of the hardest symptoms of psychiatric drug withdrawal. If you've been feeling like you're especially doomed, broken, or beyond help, this video is for you. I share what I've learned from my own protracted withdrawal and from the people I've walked with through theirs.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/shame-in-withdrawalWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines 00:00 The shame withdrawal puts in your head 00:57 Why your brain says you're especially doomed 03:16 What happens when you stop carrying this alone 04:09 Printing out proof that people like you have healed 05:39 "But I had preexisting issues", and why that's not the end 08:19 Walking into a cave with no light, and walking out 09:02 The nerve endings that break off and grow back 11:11 Waking up one day and feeling good again 12:17 Borrow hope from people who have been through itHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetDo you need psychiatric meds to be okay, or is withdrawal and dependency creating that fear? A walk through the most common myths, what dependency looks like, and why your body can return to homeostasis. Not medical advice, always taper with informed medical support.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/do-i-need-these-medications-to-be-okayWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryTimestamps00:00 Do I Need This Pill?00:49 Why This Doubt Hits Hard01:32 The Craving Loop02:45 Will My Baseline Be OK?04:14 The Chemical Imbalance Myth06:45 The Lines We’ve All Heard10:42 When Marketing Shapes Diagnosis13:38 What Long-Term Outcomes Suggest17:00 A Crucible for Resilience19:35 Peace Can ReturnHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetPart 2 on parenting through psychiatric drug withdrawal. I cover the sheer terror and catastrophizing that comes with withdrawal anxiety, practical ways to protect your kids emotionally when you're at your worst, how to explain it to your village without oversharing, what to do when you lose it, and why repair builds stronger relationships than perfection ever could. Plus, what life actually looks like on the other side.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/parenting-through-withdrawal-part-2Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country00:00 For parents in the trenches of both01:04 The weight of parental fear plus withdrawal terror03:36 Why the guilt and doom are not the final word04:33 Sheer terror, catastrophizing, and fake news from your brain06:49 Borrowing perspective when yours is blocked08:55 How I explained it to my kids, in their language10:13 Letting your village in without oversharing13:57 The tiny things that still make them feel safe16:19 Minivan meltdowns and how to buffer a wave20:27 You will mess up; here is how to repair it22:31 What withdrawal broke open and what grew in its place25:40 My mornings now: minivan, circus school, and coffeeHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Two and a half years off psych meds, here’s what life actually feels like now, the “texture” of being healed, how the darkest season warped everything, what helped me survive minute by minute, and how joy and normal life slowly came back.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/two-and-a-half-years-off-psych-meds-what-life-feels-like-nowWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world:https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryTimestamps00:00 – Two and a Half Years Out: The Texture of Life02:19 – When Withdrawal Says “You’re Screwed”03:32 – Rural Move, Trapped Mind06:04 – Identity Crisis and “Cosmic Punishment” Thoughts07:50 – When Therapy, Books, and Journaling Fail11:06 – Back to Basics: Second-by-Second Survival14:17 – Safety With People, Not Alone15:21 – 18 Months: Travel as a Turning Point19:45 – Magic and Wonder Return22:28 – Life Unpauses: Job, Move, Normal Emotions28:35 – 30 Months: A Life I Love30:07 – Fake News vs Real LifeHeads up: This channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetTwo and a half years off meds, and two years after a reinstatement injury, I’m sharing what happened, what symptoms hit, and what helped me hold on until healing took root. This is my personal story, not medical advice.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/my-withdrawal-story-two-and-a-half-years-laterWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world:https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryTimestamps00:00 – The 2.5-Year Marker, Looking Back00:48 – When You’re Scrambling for Help02:14 – Ten Years on Meds, The Merry-Go-Round06:00 – The Wake-Up Call, “This Is Withdrawal”07:33 – Five Months of Darkness, Then the Body Crash14:47 – Hope Stories, Love on the Phone, Homeostasis23:05 – Swans by the Lake, Life on the Other Side25:52 – What I Want You to Know Right NowHeads up: This channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetSleep can fall apart in psych med withdrawal. This video shares a calmer way to think about insomnia, plus simple wind-down cues like dimmer light, less screen time, less sugar, and a steady routine. If sleep won’t come, you’ll hear what to do so the pressure doesn’t spiral. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/strategies-for-sleep-in-psych-med-withdrawalWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world:https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryTimestamps00:00 – Why Sleep Gets Hard in Withdrawal01:10 – Mindset, Take the Pressure Off03:55 – Strategy, Light, Screens, Sugar06:25 – Build a Bedtime Routine08:55 – When Sleep Won’t Come10:45 – Bonus Points and the Long View12:10 – Sleep Comes BackHeads up: This channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetThis is part 3 in a series. In the first part, I talked about the healing process, the waves and windows pattern, and what you can expect: https://youtu.be/eCqgkhjCrhwPart 2 was about mindset and how it can promote healing: https://youtu.be/4Hi6j11txl8This is part 3, about habits.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/habits-that-support-healingWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryChapters00:00 Part 3 of a series01:35 Quick Recap: Waves, Mindset02:28 Healing Is Still Happening03:33 Habit 1: Avoid Psychoactive Inputs06:58 Habit 2: Calming Routines09:48 Habit 3: Simple Distraction10:52 Habit (Stack) 4: Sleep, Food, Movement, Water15:41 Staying With the ProcessHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetPart 2 of "How can I heal faster?" focuses on mindset. I share a few simple ways I learned to support my healing during withdrawal, even when my thoughts were automatically negative.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-can-i-heal-faster-mindsetWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryChapters00:00 Part 2, What Helps01:33 Mindset You Can Choose04:06 Protect Your Inner Circle06:32 Speak Hope, Build New Pathways11:50 A Bridge to HabitsHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetIf withdrawal makes it feel like healing isn’t happening... this video explains how recovery often unfolds, slowly, unevenly, and naturally, as your body finds its way back.Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/will-i-ever-enjoy-life-againWas this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tipsIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_countryChapters00:00 What If Healing Feels Impossible?01:03 From Darkness to Daily Life02:27 When Symptoms Take Everything04:07 The Body Knows What to Do05:16 The Rhythm of Waves and Windows06:27 When Things Start to Shift09:27 You’re Still In ThereHeads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

If you’re in psych med withdrawal, group support can be a lifeline. I share how groups helped me break isolation, borrow tools, find a healing buddy, and hold on to hope. Starting tomorrow, I'm offering groups on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2PM EST: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Christmas In Dark Places (spoken word): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LpVxPQNEew 321, a free video course: https://321.speaklife.org.uk/course/321 If the holidays feel heavy or hopeless, this is for you. I share what Christmas was like in the depths of withdrawal, and how hope, feeling, and joy slowly returned. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/hope-on-the-holidays-during-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Hope for the Holidays in Withdrawal 01:10 – Christmas in the Depths of Anhedonia 02:25 – Why This Isn’t Your Fault 04:14 – How Joy and Feeling Return 05:54 – Holding Hope When You Can’t Feel It 08:44 – Looking Toward Future Holidays Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Depression in withdrawal feels brutal, but it’s a symptom, not your identity. Learn the “withdrawal thought” label, borrow hope, and hold onto what’s true while you heal. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/depression-in-psych-med-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why withdrawal depression hits hard 00:08 – These feelings are symptoms 00:52 – Labeling thoughts to create distance 01:41 – When hope feels out of reach 02:24 – Separate identity from symptoms 04:18 – Brains heal, stories change 04:44 – Let go of the “permanent” label 07:32 – Keep what’s true and carry on Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Looping thoughts during psych med withdrawal can feel relentless and catastrophic. Here’s a clear way to frame them as a symptom, feed the brain positive inputs, borrow hope from trusted people, and stay on a healing trajectory until the loops ease. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/looping-thoughts Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why looping thoughts hit 00:26 – Context and purpose 01:01 – When the mind catastrophizes 02:24 – Naming it as a withdrawal symptom 03:07 – Inputs that help the brain 06:18 – Borrowing hope when yours is low 07:54 – Holding on while it resolves Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Withdrawal can hit your body hard. Here’s a clear rundown of common physical symptoms, what helped in the moment, and how to pace life while healing. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/physical-symptoms-of-psychiatric-drug-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why the body reacts 00:36 – Lived experience of withdrawal 01:43 – Symptoms roll call 04:28 – Acceptance and small adjustments 05:44 – Holding life and healing 08:07 – Adding normal back in 12:35 – Hope Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Cortisol surges during psych med withdrawal can feel like body-wide alarm. I share how they hit, what helped in the moment, simple triggers to avoid, and why they eased with time. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/cortisol-surges-in-psych-med-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 00:41 – How surges showed up for me 02:10 – What helped me 04:16 – Avoiding triggers 06:10 – Encouragement Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Why withdrawal can flood you with old traumatic memories... and why that doesn’t mean you’re broken. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/trauma-memories-and-negative-spiraling Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Crisis lines (global): https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 0:00 – Why memories flare 0:26 – Who I am 0:50 – When the past gets loud 2:07 – Brain “matching files” 3:01 – Parallels with brain injury 4:52 – Hope + what helps 7:13 – As symptoms settle Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice. Nothing here replaces professional care. You’re responsible for your choices and outcomes; no results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Supporting someone through psychiatric drug withdrawal can feel overwhelming. In this video, I share what withdrawal is, what your loved one might be experiencing, and how you can truly help without burning out. Your support matters more than you know. Are YOU going through withdrawal? Share this video with your closest people, to help them support you and understand what you're going through. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-to-help-your-loved-one-through-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Understanding Psych Med Withdrawal 04:39 – Supporting a Loved One Through Withdrawal 06:19 – Practical Tips for Daily Life 08:07 – Mental and Emotional Support 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet I share how I kept my motivation through psych drug withdrawal by anchoring to what remained: my intrinsic worth, a body that knows how to heal, and the love that gives me purpose, even when productivity and hobbies disappeared. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/motivation-to-stay-alive-during-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 00:54 – Motivation 01:46 – Struggles with self-worth 05:03 – Rediscovering purpose 06:20 – Love and connection 10:00 – Coaching and support 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet In this video, I talk about the identity crisis that often hits during psychiatric drug withdrawal. If you're struggling with thoughts like “Who even am I?” or “Did I ruin my whole life?” this is for you. You are not alone. There is healing, clarity, and hope ahead. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/when-you-dont-know-who-you-are-anymore Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Understanding Withdrawal and Identity Crisis 02:10 – Common Questions in Withdrawal 04:00 – Dealing with Negative Thoughts 04:52 – Finding Balance and Perspective 07:32 – The Healing Process and Growth 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Waves in antidepressant withdrawal can feel like you’ve lost all progress. In this video, I explain what waves and windows are, why waves happen, and what helped me minimize them. If you’re in a wave right now, you’re not failing... you’re healing. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/preventing-a-wave-in-antidepressant-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Understanding waves and windows 01:19 – Support and resources 02:44 – Protecting your nervous system 05:04 – Importance of diet 06:51 – Prioritizing sleep 08:13 – Managing stress and rest 10:53 – Dealing with waves 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet If you're afraid you'll never heal during psychiatric medication withdrawal, you’re not alone. In this video, I share what that fear was like for me, why it’s actually a symptom of withdrawal, and the truths and practices that helped me hold on until healing came. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/will-i-ever-heal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Withdrawal symptoms series 01:19 – My experience 03:04 – The fear of not healing 04:54 – Coping strategies and reassurance 06:52 – Nervous system recovery 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet If you're feeling extreme emotions during psychiatric medication withdrawal like terror, panic, despair, or regret, you’re not alone. In this video, I share what neuro-emotions felt like for me, how I coped when nothing felt believable, and the surprising ways healing eventually came. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/facing-neuro-emotions-in-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Understanding withdrawal emotions 01:15 – Extreme emotions 04:07 – Coping mechanisms 06:09 – Hope and healing 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet In this video, I respond to a heartfelt letter from a subscriber who is deep in the middle of psychiatric medication withdrawal. They describe feelings of terror, hopelessness, and fear that this experience may scar them forever. I share parts of their letter (with permission) and offer my response, encouragement, and hard-won hope. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/it-feels-like-my-soul-has-died Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 02:07 – A subscriber's message 04:38 – My response 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Book a call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Anxiety during psychiatric drug withdrawal isn’t just worry... it can feel like absolute terror. In this video, I describe what that felt like for me, why it happens, and what helped me get through it. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/anxiety-in-withdrawal/ Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – My Experience with Acute Withdrawal 02:00 – Understanding the Symptoms of Withdrawal 05:10 – Encouragement and Hope for Recovery 06:10 – Finding Joy After Withdrawal 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Fatigue is one of the most persistent and frustrating symptoms of psych meds withdrawal. In this video, I share what my fatigue was like, how I managed daily life during it, and what gave me hope. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/fatigue-in-withdrawal/ Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Psych Med Withdrawal 01:00 – Encouragement and Support 01:45 – Discussing Fatigue During Withdrawal 03:00 – Managing Fatigue and Self-Care Tips 05:30 – Accepting Limits and Celebrating Small Wins 07:45 – A Path to Recovery 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Book a call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Anhedonia during psychiatric drug withdrawal can feel unbearable. In this video, I describe what it was like for me and share encouragement from the other side. If you’re going through it, please know it won’t last forever. You can heal. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/anhedonia-in-withdrawal/ Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – What is anhedonia? 01:09 – My experience with anhedonia 02:38 – Encouragement and hope 02:57 – Living a normal life again 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Book a call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Brain fog during psychiatric drug withdrawal can make even the simplest tasks feel impossible. In this video, I share what it felt like for me and what helped me move forward. If you’re experiencing this, you're not alone... and it does get better. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/brain-fog-in-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Psych med withdrawal 01:16 – A fast taper (NOT recommended) 03:12 – Understanding brain fog 05:10 – Strategies for brain fog 07:34 – Finding small wins 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Book a call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet If you’re in medication withdrawal and feeling hopeless, this video is for you. I share encouragement, practical advice on finding support, and why there is always hope, even in the darkest times. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/finding-hope-in-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Understanding the Darkness of Withdrawal 00:45 – Finding Hope in the Midst of Struggle 01:15 – Seeking Support and Connection 02:30 – Embracing Healing and Resilience 04:15 – Encouragement and Resources 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Book a call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Feeling like it’s all downhill from here? If withdrawal has you convinced your life is over, this is for you. You’re not alone. You’re not broken. And you are not beyond hope. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/im-screwed Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Feeling Like It’s All Over 00:15 – Your Brain is Lying to You 02:30 – Fear Distorts Everything 03:30 – You Will Laugh Again 05:00 – My Own Story of Regret and Recovery 06:45 – Jesus Faced the Worst 08:00 – An Encouragement 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 If you’d like to talk one-on-one, I’m now offering withdrawal coaching. Book a session or join my email list here: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Parenting kids while in withdrawal can feel overwhelming, even impossible... but you’re not alone. In this video, I share what I learned while parenting three kids through my own psychiatric drug withdrawal journey. From how to communicate with your children to staying grounded in your healing, I hope this brings you hope and clarity. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-i-cared-for-my-kids-while-healing-from-meds Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 01:00 – The Challenge of Parenting Through Withdrawal 02:41 – How Showing Up for Your Kids Can Help You Heal 05:58 – Explaining Your Symptoms to Your Kids 12:58 – What If You Lose Your Cool? 14:39 – Giving Yourself an Emotional Buffer 15:41 – Take Heart — It Gets Better 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

If you’d like 1:1 coaching with me, visit: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Withdrawal can put strain on even the closest family relationships. In this video, I talk honestly about how I navigated family dynamics during psychiatric drug withdrawal—and how you can too. Whether your relatives are helpful, harmful, or just confused, there are ways to set boundaries, protect your healing, and still hold onto hope. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-to-handle-family-while-youre-in-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Part of a series on relationships 01:00 – My experience with family during withdrawal 02:30 – When family doesn’t get it 03:10 – Handling social expectations 04:00 – What I told people instead of the full truth 05:00 – Family who cares but doesn’t understand 05:45 – Giving helpful roles to caring relatives 06:30 – When your family does get it 07:00 – The importance of gratitude and pacing 08:00 – Encouragement if your family relationships are strained 09:00 – Life will come back. Don’t give up. 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Going through psychiatric drug withdrawal can make relationships confusing, isolating, or downright painful. In this video, I share how I navigated friendships while healing. If you're struggling and want one-on-one support, I'm now offering withdrawal coaching. Schedule at https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/navigating-friendships-during-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Friendship and withdrawal 01:00 – Struggling to relate during withdrawal 02:00 – Now offering withdrawal coaching 03:00 – What to do when friends don’t understand 04:15 – Communicating with honesty 05:30 – Supportive but uninformed friends 06:45 – A friend who helped with laundry 07:30 – Finding a withdrawal buddy 08:30 – Encouragement and pacing out support 09:30 – Friendship with God 10:30 – Online support groups & withdrawal forums 11:15 – You’re not doomed - healing happens 12:00 – A glimpse of life on the other side 12:30 – Let’s connect 1-1 #withdrawal #healing #mentalhealth #psychiatricdrugs #friendship 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Book a session here: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meetI'm opening my schedule to offer withdrawal coaching to anyone who needs support through the healing process. These are not therapy sessions, they're personal, one-on-one coaching conversations rooted in experience, compassion, and the belief that you can heal. If you're struggling through psychiatric drug withdrawal, you don't have to do it alone. There’s real hope, and it would be my joy to walk with you through it. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/now-offering-one-on-one-withdrawal-coaching Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed.Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimersIf you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps00:00 – Big announcement: I'm seeing clients again!00:34 – What I believed during withdrawal01:05 – The truth about healing01:31 – Encouragement for those still in suffering02:00 – What healing looks like now in daily life03:35 – Why coaching, not therapy04:20 – What a coaching relationship looks like04:55 – A personal invitation to work together05:25 – Healing is coming #withdrawal #antidepressantwithdrawal #healingjourney #lifeaftermeds 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet How do you stay connected to your spouse or partner during psychiatric drug withdrawal? Here I share how my husband and I navigated one of the hardest seasons of our lives... and came out stronger. The honesty, the strategy, the losses, and the quiet wins that helped us hold on and keep going. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-we-stayed-married-through-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Can our relationship survive this? 01:00 – Lies I believed during withdrawal 02:15 – Good news 03:30 – Withdrawal is hard on relationships 04:30 – The importance of honest conversations 06:15 – How to be a team when everything changes 08:15 – Adjusting roles, expectations, and survival strategies 10:00 – Getting help from others: it’s not weakness 13:00 – When your partner needs encouragement too 16:00 – Letting your partner have joy when you can’t 18:00 – Nurture what still connects you 20:00 – More good times are coming 21:00 – How to connect with me 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet If you’re in the middle of psychiatric drug withdrawal and desperate to feel better faster, you’re not alone. I’ve been there: crying on the floor, overwhelmed, and wondering if I’d ever get my life back. In this video, I talk about what helped me actually heal faster, what slowed me down, and how to cope with the uncertainty of the timeline. Healing takes time... but it’s real, and it’s coming for you. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/the-truth-about-healing-faster-in-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Intro – Why we all want faster healing 01:20 – My own terrible timing 02:30 – The shock of withdrawal suffering 03:45 – Will I ever get my life back? 04:55 – What actually helps speed up healing 06:00 – What made my symptoms worse 07:15 – How I handled food, sugar, and caffeine 08:20 – Nutrition + exercise during withdrawal 10:00 – Creating a healing lifestyle that works for YOU 11:00 – Healing isn’t about perfection—it’s about direction 12:30 – Calming your body: finding what helps 13:30 – You are healing, even if it’s slow 14:00 – Final encouragement + how to connect 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet If you feel isolated, abandoned, or like no one understands what you’re going through during psychiatric drug withdrawal, you’re not alone.In this video, I share: Why withdrawal can feel so lonely How normal relationships often go quiet What helped me cope and stay connected The slow return of real connection, joy, and peace Whether you’re crying on the bathroom floor, unable to talk to friends, or overwhelmed by the grief of what you’ve lost, please know: this won’t last forever. There is hope. There is healing. And there are people who understand. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/why-withdrawal-feels-so-lonely Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – If you feel alone right now 01:00 – Why withdrawal isolates us 02:30 – Losing hobbies, interests, and connection 04:00 – Losing feelings for people you love 05:30 – Relearning how to connect 06:10 – What to do if your friends don’t get it 07:00 – Finding online support (with boundaries) 08:30 – Buddying up with others in withdrawal 10:00 – Signs of healing & life returning 11:00 – From agony to checklist mode 12:30 – Recovery isn’t linear, but it’s real 13:00 – God hasn’t abandoned you 14:00 – Forgiveness, healing, and a future 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Hi friends. In this video I’m talking about something that can feel really isolating in psychiatric drug withdrawal: trying to explain what you’re going through… and getting blank stares, confused reactions, or unhelpful comments. So how do we protect ourselves while still being honest? How do we talk to our family, friends, coworkers, and community in ways that preserve connection—but also protect our peace? I’m sharing the language I used, the boundaries I set, and how I navigated work, social life, and even distant acquaintances without retraumatizing myself. I hope it gives you some practical ways to handle those hard conversations. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-to-talk-about-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why people don’t understand withdrawal 01:20 – Validation is hard to find 02:10 – Let go of the need for full understanding 03:00 – Finding new sources of support 04:15 – Explaining withdrawal to acquaintances 05:30 – Chronic illness + fatigue: an easier way to explain 06:45 – How I declined invitations without guilt 08:00 – When honesty did work (and when it didn’t) 09:10 – What I told my boss 10:20 – Permission to live differently for now 11:30 – If relationships fall away… 12:00 – You’re doing better than you think 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Hey friends. I’m sharing about the tension between acceptance and hope. Can we hold both? Can we accept our limits, the grief, and the pain of withdrawal—and still believe that healing is coming? I believe we can. And I hope this encourages you to keep going. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/can-i-have-... Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lis... Timestamps 00:00 – Real joy returning 01:00 – Neuro-emotions and weepiness 01:45 – Feeling normal again: it does come back 02:10 – Wrestling with acceptance vs. hope 03:00 – Grieving what withdrawal takes from you 04:00 – Accepting limitations 05:00 – It’s not your fault 05:45 – Adjusting your expectations and healing pace 06:20 – Simple joys in everyday life 08:00 – Encouraging thoughts #psychiatricdrugwithdrawal #acceptanceandhope #healingjourney #withdrawalsupport #mentalhealthrecovery

💌 Join my email list to know when I offer support sessions: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Hi friends! Today I’m talking about the fears that show up during psychiatric drug withdrawal... those dark, racing questions like:Will I ever be able to sleep again?Will I ever enjoy life?Will my mind ever feel clear? I’ve felt every one of these, and I want to walk through them with you in this video. Whether you’re dealing with looping thoughts, panic, brain fog, or just feeling like you’re never going to be yourself again, I want to encourage you: healing is happening, even if you can’t feel it yet. 💛 Leave a comment if any of these fears have shown up for you, and what helps you hang on. We’re not alone. We’re healing together. 🔗 Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/facing-fear Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: fear and terror in withdrawal01:00 – Will I ever be able to think clearly again?01:45 – Will I ever enjoy life again?02:50 – Will I be able to go out, socialize, or function again?03:40 – Windows and waves: what they are and how they help05:00 – What healing has looked like for me06:00 – Will I ever go back to work?07:00 – Will I ever stop hurting physically?08:00 – Will I ever be able to focus or concentrate again?10:00 – Adjusting expectations during withdrawal12:00 – Will I ever sleep again?13:20 – Will I ever feel joy again?14:20 – Final encouragement and next steps #withdrawalhealing #psychiatricdrugwithdrawal #antidepressantwithdrawal #healingjourney #youarenotalone

💌 Join my email list to know when I offer support sessions: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Today I want to be your withdrawal buddy. Take a walk with me while I share the specific things that helped me get through the longest, hardest days in acute psychiatric drug withdrawal—when time seemed to stretch forever and hope felt impossible. If you’re stuck in that place, I hope this video gives you some practical ideas and a reminder that you’re not alone. 🔗 Blog Version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/how-to-survive-long-days-in-withdrawal/ Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why I’m making this video 01:05 – Hot showers 02:10 – Epsom salt baths 02:45 – Loud music 03:40 – “Safe” TV 04:30 – Lying flat on the floor 05:10 – Reading to kids 06:30 – Structuring the day in chunks 07:30 – Going barefoot 08:20 – Walking fast 09:10 – Reading success stories 10:20 – Doing dishes and laundry mindfully 11:00 – Crying to release 11:45 – Phone calls with people who understand 13:00 – Hour-by-hour mindset 13:50 – Prayer 15:00 – You will take flight again #withdrawalhealing #psychiatricdrugwithdrawal #survivingantidepressants #youarenotalone #healingjourney 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Meet with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Which meds I was on, how long I took them, what my taper looked like (including some mistakes I made), and how I ended up experiencing kindling and severe withdrawal… Healing is happening for me, and it can happen for you too. 💛 Thanks for watching, and please subscribe or comment if you’d like me to cover something specific. I’m here to help and share what I’ve learned. Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why I’m sharing my medication history 01:00 – When you think your case is the worst 02:45 – My early meds: Zoloft, postpartum depression 04:00 – Misdiagnosed withdrawal and the “lifelong” message 05:00 – 10 years on and off different meds 07:00 – Zoloft → Lexapro → Wellbutrin → Citalopram → Fluoxetine 08:30 – What I wish I knew about switching meds 09:30 – The 6-week taper and cold turkey mistake 10:30 – Five months later: the darkness starts 11:30 – Reinstatement and kindling 14:00 – The phone call that saved me 15:00 – Understanding what was really happening 16:00 – Where I am now 18:00 – You can heal—even after a bad medication journey 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 https://lifeaftermeds.com/ssri-withdrawal-symptoms/ I go symptom-by-symptom to talk through what healing has looked like for me, and what’s still in process, 20 months after going off antidepressants. If you’re wondering whether healing is possible, I hope my story offers some encouragement. It gets better.❤️‍🩹 Joanna To get my videos in your inbox, and/or be first to know when I'm opening my schedule to meet with people, sign up for my newsletter: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Recap of my antidepressant history 02:45 – What I was told about “lifelong meds” 04:00 – Why tapering slowly matters (and what if you didn’t?) 05:15 – Full symptom rundown: past and present 12:00 – What’s still lingering today 13:30 – Living life while still healing 15:00 – Reminder: your body is doing the work 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

💌 Lets talk: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet It’s been 20 months since I stopped my SSRI meds, and I want to update you on my progress, challenges, and the overall healing process. I want to encourage you if you're experiencing similar hardships and remind you that healing is possible. I also share some details about my professional journey towards becoming a counselor and how my withdrawal experience influenced my path. If you want to get my videos in your inbox, or find out first when I'm opening my schedule to meet with people, sign up for my newsletter: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Stay strong and keep going, friends! ❤️‍🩹 Joanna Written version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/20-months-off-psychiatric-medication/ Timestamps 00:00 – Struggles 02:09 – Challenges with Professional Help 03:48 – Hope and Community 06:01 – Symptoms and Healing 08:38 – Encouragements 10:26 – Moving Forward If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Written version & my newsletter: https://lifeaftermeds.com/withdrawal-feels-like-horror-movie-music/ How withdrawal feels like living in a horror movie. Of course, symptoms vary depending on the person, but for those going through cold turkey, fast tapers, or just having a hard time stabilizing, it’s awful. I know how it feels, and I want to tell you: it doesn’t stay that way. It does get better. Stay with me on this healing journey, and remember, the horror movie music will change.❤️‍🩹 JoannaTimestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:04 – My experience with meds 02:08 – It’s like horror movie music 02:53 – Withdrawal symptoms 04:36 – Healing and hope 06:10 – Encouragement for you 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏

Healing progress and coping strategies... how's it going with you? Written version and my email newsletter: https://lifeaftermeds.com/one-year-off-antidepressants Timestamps 00:00 – Gratitude 00:27 – One year off 01:12 – Recent improvements 03:05 – Encouragement if you're in early stages 04:05 – Dealing with rumination 06:16 – Coping strategies 07:46 – Let's support each other

💌 Join my email list for a free 1-1 call with me: https://lifeaftermeds.com/meet Depression in withdrawal feels brutal, but it’s a symptom, not your identity. Learn the “withdrawal thought” label, borrow hope, and hold onto what’s true while you heal. Blog version: https://lifeaftermeds.com/depression-in-psych-med-withdrawal Was this video helpful? Leave a tip: https://lifeaftermeds.com/tips If you're having thoughts of self-harm, here are the support hotlines around the world: https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_suicide_crisis_lines#Crisis_line_organizations_by_country Timestamps 00:00 – Why withdrawal depression hits hard 00:08 – These feelings are symptoms 00:52 – Labeling thoughts to create distance 01:41 – When hope feels out of reach 02:24 – Separate identity from symptoms 04:18 – Brains heal, stories change 04:44 – Let go of the “permanent” label 07:32 – Keep what’s true and carry on Heads up: this channel offers education, support, and community, not medical or therapy advice or services. Nothing here replaces professional care from a doctor or licensed mental health provider. By engaging with this channel, you accept full responsibility for your own choices and outcomes. No results are guaranteed. Full disclaimer: https://lifeaftermeds.com/disclaimers 💬 Let's keep the comment section an encouraging and kind place. 🙏