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Ariel Winter warns fans after unexpected weight loss from switching antidepressants

Ariel Winter has warned fans of the side effects that come hand-in-hand with antidepressants [Photo: Getty]
Ariel Winter has warned fans of the side effects that come hand-in-hand with antidepressants [Photo: Getty]

Actress Ariel Winter has warned fans about the unexpected weight loss she experienced after changing her antidepressants medication.

On Monday, a fan commented on the 21-year-old’s latest Instagram selfie asking for advice on the topic.

“Hi, so I read online that you changed meds and you were able to lose the weight you gained," the social media user wrote [sic]. "May I ask what are the meds you are on now that have helped? Any info would be helpful so I can talk to my doctor."

The ‘Modern Family’ star promptly replied, explaining that everyone experiences different side effects from antidepressants.

READ MORE: How to spot if your child is suffering from a mental health condition

“My psychiatrist and therapist both advised me that it could be potentially be harmful to anyone who thinks that since it worked for me it will automatically work for them,” she wrote. “Just because it changed the weight side effect for me doesn't mean it will for everyone.”

Winter first opened up about her weight loss earlier this month after a number of her Instagram followers body shamed the actress.

In her defence, Winter addressed the speculation on Instagram Stories.

“For years I had been on anti-depressants that caused me to gain weight that I couldn't lose no matter what I did," she wrote. “It was always frustrating for me because I wanted to be able to get fit and feel like the work I was doing was paying off, but it never felt that way. I had accepted it and moved on.”

“I stayed on those medications for so long because the process is really long and difficult. I wasn't ready to go through it again so I just accepted feeling eh instead of trying to find something to actually feel better.”

Now, the actress has finally found a medication which works for her.

“The change in medication instantly made me drop all of the weight I couldn't lose before by just giving me back a metabolism,” she explained. “That was very unexpected.”

READ MORE: Surprising signs you’re suffering from a mental health condition

According to the NHS, there are a number of side effects to taking antidepressants with symptoms including headaches, low sex drive, reduced appetite and bowel problems.

These cautions vary according to the individual and it’s crucial to seek medical help from your local GP if concerned.

Other alternative forms of treatment for anxiety and/or depression include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) and self-help groups.

For further information, please visit the NHS website.

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