What is medication management?
Some patients can alleviate the symptoms of mental illness with just lifestyle changes and therapy, while others require medication to treat their disorders. Some clients only need medication for a short period while they work through their issues in therapy, while others suffer from chronic illnesses and require long-term medication.
Medication management is crucial for patients who need to take drugs for an extended period. Medical teams need to be more aware of dosages and potential side effects due to the way psychiatric drugs work.
Psychiatrists typically prescribe medications that are effective for the majority of people. They may start with low doses and adjust them as necessary. If a patient does not respond well to their initial medication, they may need to switch to another. Due to the complexity and personalization of the process, clients may have to consult with doctors several times a year or more until they find the correct dosage.
Even when patients find the correct dosage, those with chronic illnesses may require adjustments over time. They may need to modify dosages or adapt their bodies. Clients who are taking certain medications may become dependent and, therefore, require extra supervision.
Why can medication for mental illness be beneficial?
The decision to take mental health medications is a personal one, and patients should be informed about their treatment options. Debunking myths about these medications is important, as is understanding the risks and how doctors use them.
Myths about Medicine
A persistent myth about mental health medications is that very few people take them. In reality, one in six Americans takes prescriptions to treat mental disorders. If you require these medications, you are not alone.
Some people believe that all medications for mental illnesses cause patients to develop dependency. While some medications can be addictive, many others are not. Most doctors will not prescribe these medications unless they feel that the benefits outweigh the risks.
Others also believe that mental health medications will make them feel completely numb. While it is possible, if the problem persists, the patient may need to switch medications. Finding the right balance is key to managing medications effectively.
What types of illnesses can psychiatric medicine treat?
Some disorders, like low self-esteem, do not respond well to medication. However, other disorders may require both medication and therapy. Anti-anxiety medication, for example, can make exposure therapy more bearable for those with phobias, but therapy is still necessary.
Medication can be used as a primary treatment for patients with chemical imbalances, with therapy complementing the healing provided by the medicine.
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