Medication Can Help

Many people do not want medication to manage their mental health. There is a fear of side- effects, which can be reasonable. Some fear they will no longer “be themselves” if they take medication. Some feel that they can just “snap out of it” and that the symptoms will go away.

Mental health conditions are medical conditions. They are a result of a biochemical imbalance in the brain. These conditions are genetic, and are not a result of personality, and are passed on from one generation to the next. If you look at your family, you are likely to find other relatives with similar mental health conditions.

Not treating your mental health condition is neglecting your medical health. If you had a cardiac condition (another inherited medical condition), would you refuse the medication that could help you live a longer, healthier life? Probably not. The same is for mental health conditions. And medications do not result in “mind control”. If your personality is dulled, your medication dosage is too high - see your doctor for an adjustment in the dosage.

So, if your mental health symptoms are not getting better, speak with your doctor. Prescribed medications are tools to help manage your symptoms, and feel better.