After being diagnosed with a mental disorder or illness whether that be generalized anxiety disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, depression, etc there is always a line of treatment that is followed in order to treat the disorder. The first step of treating a mental disorder is going to psychotherapy which can then be followed by a self-help plan, peer support, support groups, and medication. The use of psychotherapy is intended to treat ongoing psychological problems most often using forms of cognitive behavioral therapy. However, the addition of taking medications to manage a disorder may been viewed as frightening, intimidating, and defeating based upon the stigma around mental health and how an individual is seen after being diagnosed with a mental disorder.
Magaret Seide shares the benefits and risks of taking medications for mental health treatment.
Pros:
Improved motivation to enact lifestyle changes – After taking prescribed medications, the individual may become encouraged to create holistic lifestyle adjustments to help manage their mental health in addition to taking medications. This may mean beginning new healthy habits such as exercising, eating health, spending more time with friends and family, and doing more acts of self care
Safe – Medications have been tested and researched in order to be deemed safe. However the safeness of the medication pertains to how safe the drug is in overdose, the severity of side effects at the therapeutic (prescribed) dose, and whether the antidepressant has any dangerous interactions with other drugs or substances
Effective – There is scientific prolonged research that observes if the medication is efficient at treating symptoms or lessening the severity of the mental disorder over the course of 40 years. The treatment (drug) is also compared to a control or placebo group who does not receive the treatment. This allows the researchers to adequately observe how effective the treatment is compared to a group who does and does not receive treatment at all to measure and record how symptoms are presented after receiving the medication
Cons:
Side Effects – Psychotropic medications come with side effects such as fatigue, upset stomach, and decreased libido which can impact one’s overall lifestyle in varying degrees. These side effects should be monitored and considered carefully before taking medications The side effects often decrease or subside after taking the medication for a period of time as the body becomes accustomed and used to the side effects of the medication.
Delayed Onset (might take time to see results) – Most medications do not produce a noticeable change or improvement until 4 weeks after taking the initial dose. It is uncommon for the medication to begin working on a short-term timeline which can be frustrating to people who are seeking an immediate relief upon taking medications.
Some antidepressants might not work – The full effects of taking a medication may not be felt be every individual as each person’s response and reactivity to the medication differs. If the prescribed medication is not effective, it may take an even longer period of time for you and your physician to find the correct medication for you that can provide you maximum relief of symptoms.