I have been on anti anxiety/ depression meds for 20 years. They did well for me. Decided last Sept to wean myself off but then my mom died. Continued to go off them gradually had the usual side effects. I had read that anti depressants are linked to dementia and my dad had some type of dementia and so did his sister ( late onset in their 80's) Then my dad passed 3 months after my mom and the depression has worsened dramatically. So now I am freaked that I will get dementia because my dad had it and because I was on meds for so long. I am terribly depressed and anxious without meds and it is really affecting my life and happiness. I feel I will end up in a nursing home with no one ( I have a husband but no children) and just slowly wither away. I know I would improve if I went back on them but I am so afraid to. I am at my wits end!!! Someone please help me!!!