Notes

Write a note in this area. It's really easy to share with others. Click here ...The cause of mental illness is not yet fully understood, but it is thought that
both your biology and your stress level can contribute to the development of
mental illness symptoms. Medications and coping strategies can help reduce
your biological predisposition (vulnerability) and treat your symptoms of
mental illness. They can be powerful tools in your journey toward recovery.
This educational handout is designed to support you in taking your
medications effectively.
How can medications help with my symptoms?
• It is possible that mental illnesses are related to an imbalance of chemicals
in the cells of the brain. Taking prescribed medications can work to correct
the imbalance.
• By taking your medications regularly, you can lower the intensity of many
symptoms, and specifically improve your concentration, mood, and ability to
achieve your goals. Making your medications a priority over time can
decrease your symptoms, prevent relapses and hospital stays, and improve
the quality of your life.
• You can move toward recovery by being informed about your prescribed
medications and taking them regularly. Talk to your nurse or health care
provider if you need education about a specific medication.
What should I ask my health care provider about my medication?
• How will the medicine benefit me?
• How long will it take for the medication to work?
• What are the possible side effects and what can be done about them?
• Will I need any blood test monitoring for these medications?
• Are there any alternatives?
9C Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Medication Management
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What are some myths about taking medications?
• I feel better now, so I don’t need to take my medication.
• I’ll become dependent or addicted to the medications.
• The medications will change who I am.
• I should be able to make myself better without medication.
• I can take herbal medications instead of the medication my doctor
recommends.
How can I take my medication safely?
• Take your medication at the same time every day.
• Use an alarm on your phone or watch as a reminder, or ask a supportive
person to remind you.
• Remember that it can take time for you and your doctor to find the most
effective medication for you.
• Schedule your medication along with another daily activity such as eating
breakfast or brushing your teeth.
• Put the medication in a certain place where you will see it every day such as
near your toothbrush or car keys.
• Use a pill box that dispenses your daily doses.
• Use a calendar to remember to take your medication and get lab work done
that is ordered by your doctor.
• Work with your health care provider to simplify your medication schedule as
much as possible so that medications are taken at the same time and fewer
times per day.
• Call you doctor if you are going to run out of medication in the next week.
• If you cannot afford your medication, ask your social worker, or heath care
provider if there are any alternatives or medication assistance options.
9C Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Medication Management
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Why is it important to take my medications every day?
• The medications are more effective in relieving symptoms.
• The medications work better when you have the right levels in your body. It
can take several weeks before you notice improvement.
• You will decrease your chances of a relapse or a hospital stay.
• It can be more difficult to treat your mood symptoms when they are not
treated fully and are having frequent relapses.
• Taking the medications regularly helps you to focus on other goals and
activities in your life.
• If you don’t take the medications as prescribed, your doctor cannot properly
consider whether or not they are helping you.
If I have side effects, will they improve?
• Side effects are undesired effects of a medication. Most side effects are
temporary and improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Based on
your side effects, your doctor may determine you need a reduced dose, an
additional medication to lessen the side effect, or a medication change.
• Some side effects are very uncomfortable, but often you must decide
whether or not the benefit of the medication outweighs the discomfort of
the side effect.
• If you are experiencing any medication side effects, it is important to tell
your nurse and health care provider