Psychiatric medications and the myths surrounding them

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By Arun Dahiya

After being diagnosed with a mental illness, you may be given the option of taking medication. It can play a big part in your recovery. The commonly prescribed medications are:

SSRIs, SNRIs, anti-psychotics, benzodiazepines, mood stabilizers, anticonvulsants, stimulants, tricyclics, etc.

Unfortunately, still, there are so many myths about them.

Myths

1. You will become dependent on them. Most of the psychiatric medications don’t cause dependency. Your emotions are still yours. And no, it doesn’t mean once you started them you will always need them to feel normal. They are just part of your treatment. Once better you won’t require them. Some medication does cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop it abruptly, but your doctor will safely taper you off and the symptoms will go away in few weeks.

2. You will feel better instantly. Unlike painkillers, psychiatric medications take some time to build up in your system and start working. Generally after 2–6 weeks you can analyse the effects from them. Don’t assume that you popped the pill and in the next few minutes you will be symptom-free.

3. Medications are not necessary. Some people believe the myth that only therapy will be enough. That these medications are unnecessarily prescribed. Definitely, psychological tools are going to be a big help in coping. But many people do need medication to lead a normal day-to-day life.

4. If one medication didn’t work, probably others won’t either. It’s very common at first that one medication may not work or you may experience some adverse effects. But there are so many options available. Don’t lose hope and stop taking medicines. It takes time to find the right medication and dose to function well for someone.

5. If you are feeling better, you can stop them. Please avoid taking this decision yourself. No psychiatric medication should be stopped abruptly without the guidance of your doctor. You need to taper them off safely.

Reproduced with permission, originally posted on anudahiyablog