Frequently Asked Questions About Medication
No. Most people who take medications are pleased to feel like themselves again and experience relief when symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADD/HD etc. are significantly reduced.
Is it a sign of weakness to take anti-depressant medication?No. As with any serious illness, dealing with depression takes great personal strength. Nonetheless, you may be exposed to negative attitudes about anti-depressant medications, which vary among individuals and cultures.
Many students have found it helpful to take the perspective that medication is one form of treatment for depression, just as medication may be used to treat allergies, asthma, infections or diabetes.
No.
How long will I need to take medication?It is generally recommended that medication be taken for a minimum of 9 to 12 months. This is because there is a high probability that symptoms will recur if the medication is stopped sooner. All medications should be monitored by a health care provider and stopped only under their direction.
How does the psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner decide what medication to prescribe for me?Medication decisions are made based on several criteria, including particular difficulties you are having, other medications you are taking, any medical problems you may have and even medication effects in other family members.
Why did the psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner prescribe one antidepressant for my friend with depression, but a different one for someone else?Responses to medication are highly individualized. A medicine that works well with one person may work very differently in a second person.
