Patients’ experiences of antidepressant withdrawal: a narrative systematic review from a health promotion perspective

Abstract Aim To conduct a systematic review to map the user’s experience of withdrawal from antidepressants and to determine policy implications. Subject and methods The MEDLINE, PsycInfo, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched for studies involving antidepressants and withdrawal experience. Screening was conducted by two reviewers—first titles and abstracts, then full texts—with conflicts resolved by a third reviewer. The review followed PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to ensure a transparent and reproducible selection and reporting process. An inductive thematic analysis was performed. The PRECEDE-PROCEED model was applied to identify predisposing, enabling, and reinforcing factors, barriers, and facilitators, and to inform policy implications. Results From 12 eligible studies, four themes were identified: perceptions of antidepressants and their prescription, experiences of the discontinuation process, interactions with healthcare, and community-level experiences. Key barriers included inadequate social and professional support, awareness, and resources. Facilitators involved positive experiences within the community, among peers and online, and expectations of recovery. Health promotion interventions aligned with the Ottawa Charter were identified. Conclusion Antidepressant withdrawal presents complex challenges at multiple levels. Policy recommendations based on patient experiences and incorporating health promotion principles can empower individuals, strengthen capacity and knowledge, reorient healthcare systems, address social determinants, and enhance community action to create a supportive and inclusive environment responsive to population needs.