Grief, Pills, and Finding the Way Back: Brooke Siem on Life After Meds

In this episode of the Med Free Mental Fitness podcast, I am joined by Brooke Siem, author of 'May Cause Side Effects.' Brooke shares her personal journey of being placed on antidepressants as a teenager following her father's sudden death, the side effects she experienced over 15 years, and her life-altering decision to come off the medication. Discover how Brooke navigated the challenging withdrawal process, rebuilt her mental health through practical tools and self-awareness, and now advocates for a life beyond medication. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the impact of psychiatric drugs and the strength found in med-free mental fitness.

00:00 Introduction to Med Free Mental Fitness

00:47 Brooke's Journey with Antidepressants

02:25 The Effects and Side Effects of Medication

04:11 Questioning the Medication

14:07 The Turning Point: Deciding to Come Off Medication

15:29 The Struggle of Withdrawal

18:14 Rebuilding Life Beyond Medication

31:28 Advocacy and Current Work

34:27 Final Thoughts and Reflections