Should I continue using Celexa (an antidepressant?)?

[Crystal Z]

I have been taking Celexa for about 10 months and it has been working great I am not anxious or depressed anymore but my family keeps on pushing me to stop taking my meds. (the are skeptics when it comes to medication) Part of me wants to make them happy and take some type of natural medicine instead of Celexa but I feel like i really need it. What should I do?

[ladypam]

A lot of people do not understand the work of antidepressants and think that depression is something that can be cured without medications. And it is really sad to know that. Depression, especially major ones comes about because of imbalances in substances in the brain, wherein you need an antidepressant to cure.
Anyway, for how long did your doctor prescribe Celexa for you? As long as you don't extend your intake of it, then you are fine. If you feel that you are "cured" and are not feeling any anxiety or depression anymore (although this peer pressure may get to your nerves) and would like to make them happy as well, then consult your doctor on what alternatives you can use. He may lower your dose until your body gets used to not having it because stopping it abruptly may cause serious withdrawal symptoms. You may also ask some alternative natural medications to replace Celexa. Your family is probably just concerned about the effects of antidepressants on your body, which is actually quite addicting. Hope this helps!