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12. Will I be pressured to take medication? No, you will most definitely not be pressured to take medication. Taking medication is an individual and very personal decision. It is not something that we take lightly. Medication is suggested only as a last resort and after other alternatives have been tried (click here for 10 Ways to Improve Your Mental Health). Medication can be helpful in the treatment of serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, as well as certain depressive and anxiety disorders. Research has shown that medication works most effectively when clients also participate in psychotherapy. There are also natural or homeopathic treatments such as St. John's Wort that some people find helpful. Therapists may bring up the possibility that a client consider trying medication if they believe the client may benefit from it. If willing, the client will be referred to a psychiatrist for an evaluation. The psychiatrist may then prescribe medication and schedule follow-up appointments to monitor the client's reaction to the medication. Medication works differently for everyone, thus it is very important to work closely with your therapist and psychiatrist to make sure you are benefiting from any medication or homeopathic treatments you may take. In some cases, depression, anxiety, or other symptoms can be caused by physical disorders. Your therapist may refer you to your doctor for a check-up to rule out the possibility that your symptoms are caused by a physical condition. Hypothyroidism, for instance, can cause mood changes, low energy levels, and poor concentration. |