As I read blogs and comments from others living with mental illness, I'm struck by a central issue in recovery. Will medication work? Medication can be an awesome tool. For me, it helps me to maintain balance. It interrupts my tendency to ruminate. It eases my panic. I'm not so overwhelmed. And I can work my way through problems without hiding in bed. In short, it feels like a miracle. But medication isn't the answer for everyone. And it isn't the total answer for anyone. Relying just on medication isn't an answer. You have to learn to use other tools in the toolbox. Recovery doesn't happen instantaneously. It isn't easy. It truly requires work and a strong desire to recover. In summary, medication provides a huge jump-start to the process. But not for everyone.
For some people, finding the right medication is a nightmare. There are side-effects with medication. And finding the optimum dosage is tricky. Doctors are forever balancing risks and benefits. And that, in and of itself, contributes to a sense of hopelessness. It can lead to more depression. I've heard that from many people. In addition, there is another issue. Medication doesn't work unless you use it consistently. I'm a living testament to the fact that if you don't take your meds, they can't work. Really. I've tested it out many times. And I know it is true.
The other issue is finding a doctor you trust. Insurance issues (or lack of insurance) create even more difficulty. If you aren't able to consistently visit a doctor and maintain access to medication, you are doomed to failure before you start. Medication and financial issues are a problem for people with physical issues. Because the need for treatment isn't as clearcut for mental health issues, it is even more problematic.
For me, medication is useful. What is your experience? Have you found the right doctor? Are you on a medication regimen that works for you? If not, what other tools help you? Let's talk. Sharing experience, strength, and hope is a wonderful tool. We can help each other.
For some people, finding the right medication is a nightmare. There are side-effects with medication. And finding the optimum dosage is tricky. Doctors are forever balancing risks and benefits. And that, in and of itself, contributes to a sense of hopelessness. It can lead to more depression. I've heard that from many people. In addition, there is another issue. Medication doesn't work unless you use it consistently. I'm a living testament to the fact that if you don't take your meds, they can't work. Really. I've tested it out many times. And I know it is true.
The other issue is finding a doctor you trust. Insurance issues (or lack of insurance) create even more difficulty. If you aren't able to consistently visit a doctor and maintain access to medication, you are doomed to failure before you start. Medication and financial issues are a problem for people with physical issues. Because the need for treatment isn't as clearcut for mental health issues, it is even more problematic.
For me, medication is useful. What is your experience? Have you found the right doctor? Are you on a medication regimen that works for you? If not, what other tools help you? Let's talk. Sharing experience, strength, and hope is a wonderful tool. We can help each other.
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