You’ve probably heard the advice: “Just cut your pills in half and take them every other day.” But that oversimplified method is doing more harm than good—and it’s time we talk about it.

In the final episode of our medication tapering series, Dr. Teralyn and Therapist Jenn uncover the real neurological science behind antidepressant withdrawal. Learn why those uncomfortable symptoms you’re feeling aren’t a relapse, but a natural response from your brain as it adapts to medication changes your doctor may not have fully explained.

We break down:

• Why standard tapering methods often fail

• The truth behind the hyperbolic tapering method

• Why early reductions feel easy, but the final milligrams hit hardest

• How to recognize less obvious withdrawal symptoms—like vivid dreams, headaches, and digestive issues

Tapering off psychiatric medications is possible—but it's far from simple. In the second installment of our deprescribing series, Dr. Teralyn and Therapist Jenn uncover the often-overlooked truths about safely discontinuing antidepressants and other psychiatric drugs.

Many people believe they're stuck on these medications for life, a myth reinforced by providers unfamiliar with safe tapering practices. But with the right support and strategy, you can break free. We liken the process to an ultra-marathon—not a sprint—recommending 1–3 months of tapering for every year on medication to give the body time to adjust.

Before beginning, it's essential to build a "taper team" of supportive professionals—doctors, pharmacists, and specialists who truly understand the nuances of deprescribing. If your current provider resists your desire to taper, remember: healthcare should be collaborative, and you deserve a team that respects your goals.

We also emphasize the importance of functional lab testing to uncover key data like neurotransmitter levels and nutrient deficiencies. This personalized insight helps guide a smoother tapering process.

Finally, we explore foundational supplements—omega-3s, methylated B-complex, vitamin D, magnesium, and probiotics—that can ease withdrawal symptoms and support brain health through the transition.

⚠️ Thinking of Stopping Your Psych Meds? Listen First.

In this powerful episode of The Gaslit Truth Podcast, Deprescribing Consultants Dr. Teralyn and Jenn expose the hidden truths about psychiatric med tapering — and why it’s not just about cutting pills. They reveal what your brain really needs before you even start: protein, nutrients, and a 90-day prep built on four pillars — nutrition, sleep, movement, and mindfulness.

You’ll learn how meds deplete key nutrients, why neurotransmitter support is critical, and why HIIT might be doing more harm than good. Whether you're considering tapering, already in it, or supporting someone who is, this science-backed episode is your essential first step.

In this episode Dr. Teralyn and Therapist Jenn sit down with medical journalist Bob Whitaker—founder of Mad in America and author of several groundbreaking books—to expose the unsettling truths behind psychiatric medications. Whitaker reveals how the long-promoted "chemical imbalance" theory was debunked decades ago, yet continues to influence treatment and public perception.

We explore the flawed science, biased drug trials, and how psychiatric medications may actually create the imbalances they claim to fix. Whitaker also shares his journey from mainstream reporter to whistleblower, and we discuss the challenges faced by patients who question their treatment, as well as the therapists supporting them through safe deprescribing.

What if talking about trauma isn’t the path to healing—but a roadblock? In this eye-opening episode, EMDR expert Jeremy Fox challenges the limits of traditional talk therapy and introduces a powerful alternative: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. Discover how EMDR helps the brain unstick traumatic memories—often without needing to relive every painful detail. Backed by science and personal insight, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone curious about breakthrough ways to truly heal from trauma.

Could your antidepressant be messing with your blood sugar—and no one’s telling you? In this explosive episode, we uncover the hidden link between SSRIs and metabolic issues like weight gain, high blood sugar, and increased diabetes risk. Co-host Jenn shares her shocking experience of medical gaslighting after questioning her Lexapro side effects, backed by hard-hitting research that most doctors ignore. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or wondered if your meds are affecting your health, this episode gives you the science—and the tools—to advocate for yourself.

What happens when the medical professional becomes the patient—and the system fails her? In this powerful episode, physician assistant Nicole Lamberson shares her shocking descent into medication harm after being prescribed Xanax for anxiety, leading to years on a cocktail of psychiatric drugs. As her health unraveled, she discovered just how unprepared the medical world is to help people safely taper off these meds. Now a leading voice for medication safety and informed consent, Nicole exposes the dangerous gaps in medical training and offers hope for healing after withdrawal. This is a must-listen for anyone on psychiatric meds, in healthcare, or seeking answers about the risks of polypharmacy.

What if the treatment for your mental health ended up being the thing that nearly destroyed you? In this gripping episode, Iraq War veteran Angie Peacock shares how she went from a hopeful patient to being labeled "chronically ill" after 13 years on over 40 psychiatric drugs. Her story of devastating side effects, misdiagnosis, and a brutal cold-turkey withdrawal reveals the dark side of the mental health system—and the incredible resilience of the human brain. Now a national advocate, Angie exposes the myths of chemical imbalance and lifelong medication, offering hope to anyone seeking healing beyond prescriptions.

Is sending your child to therapy always the right call—or could it have unintended lifelong consequences? In this eye-opening episode, two licensed therapists reveal the hidden risks of early mental health diagnoses, from lasting medical records to barriers in careers, insurance, and beyond. Hear real stories of young adults still impacted by labels they received at age six—and learn why many who went to therapy as kids say it did more harm than good. Before you make that first appointment, this conversation offers essential truths every parent deserves to know.

What if therapy isn’t making you stronger—but keeping you stuck? In this bold episode, three therapists, including "The Capacity Expert" Raquel Hopkins, challenge the mainstream mental health narrative that turns normal emotions into diagnoses and fosters emotional fragility over resilience. From rethinking childhood deep-dives to questioning whether your nervous system is always right, they unpack how the industry may be creating lifelong clients instead of empowered individuals. If you’re ready to break free from symptom management and build real emotional capacity, this episode will change how you see therapy—and yourself.