*Message: <div><strong>Quote:</strong></div><div class="wysiwygQuote"><strong>Originally posted by Joani</strong><br /><p>I have been on an anti-depressant for 7 years now.  Effexor XR for 6 yrs and it was changed to Pristiq now for 1 yr. I started taking them because I had chronic low back pain, which lead to depression. I don't have the back pain any longer and would like to try to get off the pills.  BUT - if I miss just one day I feel like the world is coming to an end.  That is not right - on any level!!!  I don't mind taking meds for the rest of my life, if they are necessary for my health.  But I can't get off these pills to see if I really need them or if I am just ADDICTED.  Of course, the pharm. companies don't want you to get off, so they are no help, neither is the doctor.  I'm stuck.  Has anyone had experience with this, or any suggestions???</p></div><p>...</p>