In a systematic review, those who underwent CBT while they tapered off antidepressants were more likely to successfully stop taking the medication than those who tried tapering alone. Working with an experienced anxiety disorder therapist is the most effective way to overcome problematic anxiety. The information in these chapters should provide many of the answers you are looking for, as well as I think you’d find this information comforting and reassuring. Read on to learn more about what causes brain shakes and how to avoid them. It can feel like a sunburn despite no sunburn being present, a prickling sensation, or even shooting sparks. Others describe it as feeling like the brain is briefly shivering. For a more detailed explanation about all anxiety symptoms, why symptoms can persist long after the stress response has ended, common barriers to recovery and symptom elimination, and more recovery strategies and tips, we have many chapters that address this information in the Recovery Support area of our website.
Brain shivers or zaps. If you are having difficulty managing your anxiety, you can connect with one of our recommended anxiety disorder therapists to help you learn the many important skills associated with overcoming anxiety disorder. To see if anxiety might be playing a role in your anxiety symptoms, rate your level of anxiety using our free one-minute instant results Anxiety Test or Anxiety Disorder Test. Identifying and successfully addressing anxiety’s underlying factors is the best way to overcome problematic anxiety. Some people also reported a painful sensation, headache, or seizure-like feeling, but these were less common than other symptoms. This bizarre feeling isn’t lightheadedness, dizziness, or anything you’ve ever experienced. Many people experience them, but the symptoms themselves are often very tough to describe, and it’s possible that those experiencing shock may be talking about different things.
Brain zaps are electrical shock sensations in the brain. They can happen in a person who is decreasing or stopping their use of certain medications, particularly antidepressants. Brain zaps are not harmful and will not damage the brain. However, they can be bothersome, disorienting, and disruptive to sleep. People may be able to minimize or prevent brain zaps by tapering off their dosage of antidepressants gradually. However, a person should always work with a doctor before stopping their medication or lowering the dosage. Abruptly stopping an antidepressant may make a person more likely to experience brain zaps and other symptoms.