
Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).

Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal
“You are not alone. Information, community, and support are available to help you make informed, safe choices.”
Peer Support Groups
Withdrawing from Psychiatric Meds — Virtual Peer Support Group · Advocates
Join a free, peer-run virtual group where you can talk openly about getting off psychiatric medications safely, with support from others who understand the process firsthand. No referral, insurance, or payment is required. Open to anyone 18 and older seeking peer support for personal growth — not open to students, clinicians, or observers. Meets every Wednesday, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM PT (4:00–5:00 PM ET) on Zoom. Register and join at advocates.org/events/withdrawing-psychiatric-meds-support-group. Meeting ID: 993 3486 9231 · Passcode: 106742 · Call-in: 1-646-558-8656.
Facilitators: Eric Stout · 774-424-4026 · [email protected] · Patrick Conway · 774-423-4852 · [email protected]. To request ASL interpreters or other accommodations, email Patrick Conway. Meetings are occasionally subject to last-minute schedule changes — confirm with a facilitator before attending.
*Hours subject to change
Benzo Hope — Virtual Peer Support Group · Zoom · [VERIFY: Confirm current schedule]
Connect with a volunteer-run peer community for people navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Virtual meetings are held via Zoom and are open to participants worldwide. Each session opens with a group breathing exercise, followed by voluntary shares — you can request the type of feedback you’d like, or simply listen. Meetings close with a brief meditation, stress-reduction exercise, or reading from others who have healed. Facilitators are fellow patients, not professionals, and do not provide medical advice. RSVP through Meetup to receive the Zoom link prior to the meeting. Access and current schedule at meetup.com/benzo-hope. Free · donations appreciated to cover platform costs. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
*Hours subject to change · Verify schedule before publishing
Online Resources & Guides
Inner Compass Initiative — Free Withdrawal Support & Education
Get access to a free, comprehensive guide to psychiatric medication withdrawal — covering preparation, tapering strategies, a searchable Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z, peer-written articles, and a community networking tool to find others in your area. All public resources require no login, no membership, and no payment. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at theinnercompass.org.
ICI Exchange — the private member community featuring live video support calls, a growing video library, and ongoing peer conversations — offers a two-week free trial. ICI is 100% donor-funded and does not provide medical advice; all resources are peer-to-peer and educational.
Mad in America — Drug Withdrawal Resource Hub
Find free research, personal stories, a Provider Directory, and withdrawal resources for antidepressants, antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications — all in one place. The Provider Directory lists practitioners and peer organizations willing to support tapering. Continuing education webinars and links to peer communities are also available. Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week at madinamerica.com/drugs-withdrawal-home.
Mad in America does not provide medical advice and makes no recommendation to withdraw from any medication. Resources are for informational and peer-support purposes only.
Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs — Will Hall · Fireweed Collective
Download a free, 52-page illustrated guide covering mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medications — with balanced discussion of risks, benefits, wellness tools, withdrawal, and tapering resources. Written by counselor and peer advocate Will Hall with a 55-member health professional advisory board and more than 50 peer collaborators, this guide is used internationally and available in multiple language translations. A harm reduction approach means neither pro- nor anti-medication — supporting you to make your own fully informed decisions. Download free at fireweedcollective.org — Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs · Also available at willhall.net/comingoffmeds.
Podcast Episodes
Metabolic Mind Podcast — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring
Listen free to board-certified psychiatrist and former FDA insider Dr. Josef Witt-Doerring discussing patient-led approaches to safely tapering SSRIs, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers — including dosage reduction protocols, liquid formulations, avoiding withdrawal pitfalls, and the role of metabolic and nutritional approaches. For informational purposes only; not medical advice. Listen at metabolicmind.org — Tapering Psychiatric Medications Safely with Dr. Josef · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week.
A full library of free tapering and withdrawal podcast episodes is also available at metabolicmind.org/resources/topics/keto-and-psych-meds.
Additional Resources
theinnercompass.org/learn — ICI Learn section: peer-written essays on drug dependence, withdrawal, tapering, and coping
theinnercompass.org/page/withdrawal-symptoms-z — ICI Withdrawal Symptoms A-to-Z: community-compiled list of reported symptoms and coping strategies
theinnercompass.org/prepare — ICI Companion Guide to Psychiatric Medication Withdrawal: step-by-step preparation guide for tapering safely, including exercises, reflections, and peer-sourced tapering methods
madinamerica.com/drug-withdrawal-resources — MIA Drug Withdrawal Resource page: provider directory, courses, and research
metabolicmind.org — Tapering & Deprescribing Podcast Episodes — Metabolic Mind tapering and deprescribing podcast episodes: safe tapering, withdrawal, and medication management
survivingantidepressants.org — Surviving Antidepressants: volunteer-run peer forum for tapering all psychiatric medications and withdrawal syndrome (limited registration)
benzobuddies.org — BenzoBuddies: peer support forum for benzodiazepine withdrawal and tapering, active for nearly 20 years; read-only without free registration
letstalkwithdrawal.com — Let’s Talk Withdrawal: podcast and resource site featuring lived experience accounts and expert interviews on antidepressant, antipsychotic, and benzodiazepine withdrawal
madinamerica.com — Rethinking Mental Health Podcast — Free weekly podcast featuring interviews with experts and people with lived experience on psychiatric medication withdrawal, tapering, and informed consent · 311+ episodes · available on all podcast platforms · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
iipdw.org/videos — International Institute for Psychiatric Drug Withdrawal: free recorded town halls, training videos, and research talks on safe tapering and withdrawal from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
rxisk.org/withdrawal-zone — RxISK Withdrawal Zone: free articles, patient-reported adverse effects database, and tools covering withdrawal from antidepressants, benzodiazepines, and other psychiatric medications · Available 24 hours a day · 7 days a week
About the Organizations
Advocates (advocates.org) is a Massachusetts-based nonprofit that has served people with mental health challenges, autism, intellectual disabilities, substance use issues, and brain injuries for over 50 years. Peer specialist-facilitated support groups are free, confidential, and open to all community members without referral.
Benzo Hope is a volunteer-run peer community dedicated to supporting individuals navigating benzodiazepine tapering and withdrawal. Meetings are facilitated by fellow patients and are free to attend. [VERIFY: Confirm active status and current meeting day/time before publishing.]
Inner Compass Initiative is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2018 by Laura Delano, whose own experience tapering off five psychiatric medications after a decade of struggle inspired her to create the resources she wished she’d had. ICI is run by and for people with lived experience, and its resources are used by individuals, families, and practitioners worldwide.
Mad in America is an independent media and resource organization covering science, psychiatry, and social justice. Its Drug Withdrawal Hub and Provider Directory connect people around the world with tapering-supportive practitioners and peer resources, all freely accessible online.
Fireweed Collective is a healing justice organization offering mental health education and mutual aid. The Harm Reduction Guide to Coming Off Psychiatric Drugs, co-distributed by Fireweed Collective and Will Hall, has been translated into 14 languages and is used internationally by individuals, families, and organizations.
Metabolic Mind is a nonprofit initiative of Baszucki Group dedicated to exploring the connection between metabolic health and mental health. The Metabolic Mind Podcast is free on all major podcast platforms and features interviews with clinicians and researchers specializing in psychiatric medication tapering and metabolic mental health.
DISCLAIMER: All resources listed are shared as a courtesy and are free unless otherwise noted. Not a substitute for professional medical advice, psychiatric treatment, legal counsel, or emergency services. Always work with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your medications — stopping psychiatric medications abruptly can be dangerous. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 or contact local law enforcement. For mental health emergencies, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).