Could Medication Be Right For Me?
As a psychiatrist with 10 years in private practice, I get asked many questions about medication and I would like to take the opportunity to answer my top 10 medication questions.
1. Am I a weak person?
Depression is a serious illness. It is not a weakness. Depression sufferers cannot pull themselves up by their bootstraps. Without treatment symptoms may persist for a very long time.
2. Will it go away without treatment?
Depression is a cyclic illness. Most people eventually get better, but it may take years. It can also be life threatening. Suicide thoughts are never normal. If you or a loved one has suicide thoughts, don’t hesitate to go to the nearest Emergency Room.
3. Do most people treated for depression get better?
Depression is very treatable. We know people get well quickest with medication and coaching to become their own best therapist. Most people experience significant relief within 4-6 weeks of starting an antidepressant medication and counseling.
4. How do these medications work?
Antidepressant medication works by changing chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters. In depression, it is thought that imbalance of these chemicals produce extreme changes in mood and behavior. Antidepressants restore this delicate balance.
5. Why do I need counseling along with antidepressants?
Medication takes about 4-6 weeks to see the full effect. You need immediate skills to combat this serious illness.
6. Will I get addicted to these meds?
Antidepressant medication is not addictive. Sometimes it is important to wean off antidepressants rather than stop them abruptly. This is not because of addiction, but there can be side effects if they are stopped abruptly.
7. I heard medication changes your personality. Is this true?
You are a unique person. No medication can change that. You may become less bothered about some issues. Usually this occurs in a healthy way as one gets well. If negative personality changes occur, talk to your psychiatrist and your counselor.
8. How long do I need to be on medication?
It is recommended to stay on medication 6months to 1 year after you feel better. Premature cessation can result in reoccurrence of original symptoms
9. What are the side effects of medication?
Generally side effects are mild and go away by themselves within a few days. If these side effects do not go away, call your physician. Do not stop your medication.
10. Which medication is right for me?
There are more than 20 antidepressants medications widely used, and the medicine that worked for your friend may not be the best one for you. Become a team member with your physician to find the best fit for you.
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God Bless, Jill Fox MD