Topic Tuesday // NOW IN SESSION // Medication

[NikNik]

That's so comprehensive @Hazelle

Can I ask - what did you do (or still do?) to keep track of all these changes / symptoms?

[Hazelle]

I give thanks to talking about my symptoms with my boyfriend and very supportive sister (who I live with). That helps me become aware of my own actions and to remember them later.

Also journaling, I journal most days, about anything and everything really.

I also keep a daily DBT diary card, that has helped me to take notice of thoughts and emotions.

[GothMum]

Hey @Former-Member, I get nervous talking about my meds (and getting dosages and names right), so yes, I keep it all written down in a Filofax. I have felt better supported by my health team since they all know what is going on for me. I have also given express permission for specific individuals to speak about me with other specific therapists. Part of that is due to being a single parent of children who also have MI. And being the daughter of a mother with MI who refused to even let her left hand know what the right was doing. 

We all need to do w hat is right for us.

[Heartworks]

@BlueBay I don't think its stupid at all. I think it's human, if we had to explain it. We can become so overwhelmed that sometimes we need a respite from ourselves. I think too, we are doing the best we can, all the time, even if we feel like we aren't at the time. 🙂 sometimes, it's a day at a time and sometimes is one hour or even 10 minutes at a time. That's okay too 🙂

[Shaz51]

Yes @Hazelle, @NikNik' @snoopy

,My husband said he watches me and he wants to be postive like me , he has said the I have helped him sooo much

[snoopy]

And for those who make the decision to try medication or stay on their medication.  I’ve written some points you might find helpful.  I’m curious to know of any other experiences of advice or people may have to offer about making medication work for them.

• Medications often help the most when they're part of an overall treatment program. Your plan may include psychotherapy, peer programs and rehabilitative services.
• Mental health treatment is an ongoing commitment, whether you choose to take medication or not.  It is important that you find a health professional you feel comfortable with. Good doctors don’t just prescribe medication; they listen to your concerns, help you overcome difficulties, and make treatment a collaborative process.
• Keeping regular appointments with your treating doctor is important, especially when you first begin a treatment. Regular appointments help you and your health professionals monitor treatment progress and make adjustments as necessary.
• It can take time to feel better. Some medications take a few weeks to work. And sometimes a medication's side effects may start before its benefits do. You also may have to try more than one medication before you get the right fit, which is tiring. But many people find it's worth persisting with.
• Although there are effective treatments available for most mental health disorders, these treatments are not “cures.” That is, the treatments can help you manage symptoms of the disorder, but some form of ongoing treatment or management is usually necessary so that symptoms remain in check.

[Hazelle]

That is great news! Your positivity is obviously contagious, good work!

[Shaz51]

I totally agree @Heartworks, it is one day at a time ,

[Heartworks]

@snoopy Absolutely! I think there needs to be a clear line between recovery and cure.

For me, I choose to medicate, in conjunction with meditation, creativity as an artist, a writer and other forms of self expression that are not also empowering, moreover, in many ways we lend our voice to the untold stories which I think is essential.  It is a holistic treatment, or in choosing a better word, life. 🙂 I don't think there is one stand alone method, but I also believe through trial and error we find the right and unique fit which is just as unique as we are. I think if anything, don't stop trying to find what works for you. There may just be the right combination for you. 🙂

[NikNik]

@snoopy - you have such a good point when you say 'Good doctors don’t just prescribe medication; they listen to your concerns, help you overcome difficulties, and make treatment a collaborative process.'

It's just finding that Dr that can be the tricky part sometimes 🙂

I can see alot of people here have a great support team - which is always great to hear.