Mental Health & Medications - Feeling Trapped On Prescription Meds?

It seems one of the biggest concerns in our Country today, is the amount of population who are coping with anxiety and emotional/mood disorders. It is said that roughly 46%, nearly half of our population, are chronic sufferers of mental health concerns. This can range from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, bipolar disorder, to attention deficit disorder. With today's challenging economy, fast-paced lifestyles and family struggles, it is hard to predict whether or not we will ever see this percentage decrease instead of rising. As we all know, stress alone can be a huge player in our mental health management abilities.

Over 90% of mental health sufferers turn to prescription drugs to cope with their struggles and lead daily lives. Some have proven very successful, others not so much. The good thing is that researchers continue to develop new variations and new medications at somewhat of a steady pace. What I have personally noticed though, is the average person's assumption that once they begin a particular medication, they are locked in forever whether it works well or not.

We should all listen to our doctor's orders/advice when it comes to directions with oral medications. However, this does not mean we should never question them, or ask for something different. Below are a few things you should never assume must remain the same for the sake of following order.

1. If side effects do not subside after 3 to 4 months, and they are affecting your daily functions, GO to you doctor and discuss alternatives.
2. If you have been taking a specific prescription for any mood disorder for over a year(s), and it is not currently helping, GO see your doctor to discuss other medications out there that may work better for you. There are always alternatives to try. sometimes finding the right medication can take some trial & error.
3. NO two people are alike. What works great for one will not work for another, so do not rely on your peers suggestions alone.
4. There are also cases where 'adding' another drug to your current medication may be the perfect treatment for your symptoms. Sometimes trying a combination can be just the answer for someone.
5. Lastly, if you have taken a specific drug for years and years because it used to work so well, but suddenly feel you are going backwards in emotions, GO talk to your doctor! A person's body changes many times over the course of life. What worked back then may be what works for you right now. Do NOT feel as though you are stuck. I know change after so long can be very scary...but your quality of life is so worth it.