Hi Teresa, I think that must have been a real shock for you and can entirely empathise with how you are feeling. I am on lots of medication for various ailments, i don't like taking them as they have side effects, like most drugs you have to weigh up the pros and cons and then make a decision.

Lots of people feel ashamed of being on antidepressants, i think that is just silly, i agree with others it's no different then popping any other pill. If it makes you feel better then you otherwise would be then why not. It's not a sign of weakness, it's far braver to ask for help then to pretend you don't have a problem and bury your head in the sand.

I think you need to think seriously why you want to come off them. If it is because of side effects then that is fine, and perhaps even think of trying others. if it is because you feel fine then perhaps go back and discuss all your concerns with your GP. If there is another GP at your surgery then you could ask for a second opinion, list all your question down before hand and take it with you.

Antidepressants aren't always as effective second time around and so that is why many gp's like to keep people on them for as long as possible, as others have said some need to be taken for at least 2 years to get the full benefit. These are the sorts of questions you probably need to ask your GP. They have probably seen hundreds of people coming off them and probably know what the upside and the downside of doing this is.

I would definitely go back to your GP and be honest with him/her tell him/her how upset it has made you feel thinking you will be on this medication for life, and if it would be possible to eventually come off them.

I am sure there are answers to your situation, sometimes you just need to ask the right questions and be honest and persistent.

I wish you luck in getting the answers you need.