Medication Management For Psychiatric Disorders

Medication is often an essential part of mental health treatment. It can treat underlying symptoms in acute and chronic situations and help patients maintain the equanimity they need to stick with the healing process.

Prescribing medication in mental health requires something known as “medication management.” In medication management, the patient and therapist work together to determine whether or not a medication is the right option for the patient. In session, the psychiatrist and patient discuss options, then the psychiatrist recommends a dosage. The patient then follows up with the psychiatrist, checking in about the effects of the medicine to determine whether or not it benefits the patient.

In some cases, patients may need long-term management of their medications. Bodies adjust over time, and medications may not be as effective after years or months of use. In cases where a medication has addictive properties, long-term management can help guard against addiction.

Benefits:
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At our clinic, we understand that this is a complex decision. There are several benefits to these medications, however, and understanding them and dispelling certain myths can help clarify the decision making process.

Myths about Medication:
Medication for mental health is quite common in the US and used for a wide range of mental health issues. One misconception some have is that only severe cases require medication or that medication somehow implies a situation is dire.
Another myth is that all medications are addictive or that they may somehow “change” a person. First, only some medications come with a risk of addiction; second, effective medication management addresses both these concerns, monitoring the patient so that they have a safe experience with medication.
Sometimes, medication is not the right answer for a patient. By working in tandem with your psychiatrist, you can make sure that getting on medication is best for you and your needs.

How Medication Can Help:
Some conditions are better served by therapy, such as when a person is dealing with self esteem issues, for example. Many patients with other conditions, however, benefit greatly from medication, including those with anxiety or depression. In fact, with severe depression, medication is often the greatest driver of recovery and wellness.