Deciding whether or not to take medication for our mental illness has got to be the most difficult decision one has to make. Personally, I decided not to take medication for my anxiety. Instead I wanted to take the natural route by exercising, eating healthy, taking vitamins, and therapy. Whether you decide to take the medication route or the natural route having good insight and weighing your options can be really benefit you in your decision-making.
Medication is the primary treatment for many mental illnesses. Despite the negative portrayals given by the media, there can be many benefits to medicating your mental illness. Medication can really help people function in their day-to-day lives by reducing some of the paralyzing symptoms of mental illness. It is important to note that the reduction of symptoms does not indicate a cure. Many have really positive results from taking medications when taken the right way.
On the other hand, taking the medication route can also have its downsides. One of the main turnoffs to taking medication for me was the fear of certain side effects. Some common side effects for anxiety meds include drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, heart racing, rashes and more. They can also eliminate one symptom but with these side effects other symptoms may persist. Another thing to consider when deciding on medication is that it will involve a tough trial and error process. This process can include going through several different meds until you find the right combination with the right dosage. The most serious consequence that taking meds can come with is the risk of addiction.
All in all, by recognizing your mental illness, weighing your treatment options, and talking to your doctor, you are bound to find the path that is right for you. Many people, who go into treatments blindly, do not end up finding the right solution. As long as you do your research and go into the situation with an open mind, your mental health will thank you.
Listen to Episode 3 of my podcast Anxious Ramblings:
This episode will begin with some updates from my personal life. I will discuss my thoughts on medication as a treatment for anxiety. Anxious Ramblings will conclude with me reading some responses to the question: What role does the medication play in your mental health? Is it more beneficial or detrimental?
Listen to Episode 4 of Anxious Ramblings
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