You can continue the medication safely for many years. I am not sure why your doctor is stopping after improvement. Kindly consult an astute psychiatrist and get a second opinion

Heyy I can help you better with further treatment course needed. U can connect me via whatsapp on seven zero eight two zero two two zero six two.

Hi.. you may need to continue medicines for a few years and along with that practicing relaxation exercises can help.

Hi Hey, I really feel you on this — living with anxiety that keeps coming back like a cycle can be so draining, especially when it shows up through your gut. The fact that escitalopram works like magic for you but then loses its charm over time must feel like a never-ending loop. You’re not alone in this — many people go through the same pattern of starting meds, feeling better, stopping, and then slowly slipping back. And honestly, it makes complete sense to question why you have to stop something that’s actually helping. The whole “take it for 9-12 months and stop” approach is a guideline, but not a one-size-fits-all rule. In your case, where symptoms keep returning and affect daily life and work, continuing meds long-term can be a more realistic and kinder option. You’re doing a lot already — holding a job, trying yoga and meditation, and still pushing through those heavy days — and that shows how strong you are. But when anxiety is wired deeply, especially through the gut-brain connection, sometimes the brain just needs ongoing support. So maybe the answer isn’t to force a break from meds, but to find a balance — even a lower dose for longer. And alongside that, doing therapy like CBT or gut-focused relaxation might help your system stay more stable in the long run. You don’t have to fight this alone or feel guilty about needing medication. It’s not weakness — it’s just your brain asking for a little more help to keep the calm going. Take therapy, and you can connect with me on nine two six six seven two six zero six five.

Management plan needed, acute as well as maintenance also, along with non pharmacological treatment.

It can be continued for longer duration

Yes, you can definitely continue your medicines for a long period of time under the guidance of a psychiatrist. We can also change the class of the drug and that can also give a good response. You can consult, if required.

Recurrent episodes may warrant continuation of medication for longer durations or even lifelong. But finding alternative coping strategies for regulating mood and anxiety may be more helpful in the long run. Psychotherapy can help in developing healthier coping strategies, along with medication.