What happens if?Reviewed: Jan 12, 2026~1 min

What Happens If You Stop Medication Abruptly: Navigating Withdrawal Symptoms During Stressful College Weeks

Short answer

⚠️Depends / use caution

It depends. Abruptly stopping your daily antidepressants during stressful college weeks can trigger withdrawal symptoms or relapse, but the severity varies by the medication and individual factors.

Context

Students may consider stopping medication due to perceived side effects, forgetfulness during busy academic weeks, or concerns about privacy and storage in a shared dorm room.

When it might be safe

Gradual tapering under medical supervision may minimize withdrawal symptoms
Communicating with professors or academic support if symptoms impact coursework
Seeking campus mental health resources for extra support during stressful times

When it is not safe

Suddenly quitting antidepressants can cause withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and trouble concentrating
Mood swings might increase, impacting academic performance during midterms
Unsupervised stops can increase risk of depressive relapse or worsen relationships with roommates

Possible risks

Intense mood swings interfering with exams and assignments
Physical withdrawal symptoms like headaches, sleep disruptions, or flu-like feelings
Increased conflict or misunderstanding with roommates due to unpredictable behavior

Safer alternatives

Talk to your prescribing doctor before making any changes
Ask for advice on safe tapering methods if needed
Consider using a medication lockbox or talking to roommates about privacy to keep meds secure

Bottom line

Stopping antidepressants abruptly—especially during college stress—can lead to significant withdrawal symptoms and worsen mental health. Always consult your doctor before changing medication routines, consider safe storage solutions in shared dorms, and reach out for help if you're struggling.

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