<s>[INST] Hi, I was seperated and divorced from my husband of 31 years over three years ago, i had a nervous break down so i was put on effexor, now my life has changed and i am with a wonderful man and am happy and doing well, i would love to get off the effexor but everytime i have tried my head just gets crazy dizzy and i get sick, help what can i do? [/INST] Hello and welcome to Healthcare Magic. Thanks for your query. Effexor (Venlafaxine) is an antidepressant medication and your symptoms appear to be withdrawal-related. When taken for prolonged periods and stopped, antidepressants can cause withdrawal symptoms and rebound anxiety or depression. This can be prevented by tapering down the dosage very gradually before stopping the medication. In addition, practising relaxation techniques like deep breathing , etc. can help in controlling the rebound anxiety. Please consult your doctor for a tapering schedule for the medication. Wish you all the best. Regards, Dr. Jonas Sundarakumar Consultant Psychiatrist </s>