Summarize the following:
Before you can learn how to get off Paxil, you must decide if you still need the medication to control the symptoms of depression or anxiety. Your doctor can help you make this decision based on the improvement of symptoms, the length of time you have been on the drug, and your progression in dealing with your depression through other methods. Your doctor will likely have you taper off Paxil by slowly reducing your dosage. If you can, begin this process on a Friday so that you can see how your body is affected without worrying about how to get to work the next day. Other things you may want to consider when planning to get off Paxil:  Take some time off work or plan to taper during a holiday. Minimize stress — take care of as many chores, bills, or other stressors before you begin. If possible, get help from a friend or family member to manage these things for the duration of your withdrawal. Inform your friends and family that you are planning to get off Paxil and that you may experience difficult side effects. It helps to have an idea laid out detailing how you will deal with your withdrawals. Go ahead and gather things that will distract you, such as movies and television shows, books, music, or games. Think of a physical activity that you can do to help. Try golf, walking, gardening, cycling, or swimming.  Come up with a pleasant idea or memory to focus on during your darkest times. This may help lift your mood and help everything not seem so dire. Prepare a journal to write through the experience. Abrupt discontinuation of the drug may result in Paxil withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, sleep changes, headaches and dizziness and can last for months. A slow and steady withdrawal under a doctor's supervision can go far in reducing these unpleasant Paxil side effects. Think of your doctor as a partner in the process and follow his directions precisely to make the transition to a medication-free lifestyle as smooth as possible.
Determine whether or not you are ready to get off the medication for good. Choose a good time to taper off Paxil. Develop a plan to manage your withdrawals. Talk to your doctor about how to get off Paxil safely.