Medication and Culture

Medication is not the answer for everyone. However, if you are someone who finds that medication helps you, please don’t let other people or societal pressures keep you from doing something that will make you less sick.

Finding a drug that can help you be less sick is an amazing discovery, and you shouldn’t be ashamed of it. Unfortunately, there is a great deal of social stigma surrounding medication, so it takes a lot of inner strength to admit you benefit from it.

You won’t always find the right medication the first time. Don’t just try one and decide, “Well, I did it, I’m on medication now, I guess this is it.” Instead, monitor your symptoms on and off the medications, give them enough time to start working, be aware of any side effects, and discuss with your doctor whether or not you think this medication is right for you.

Finding the proper medication can be a long process, but it’s something to utilize when you find one that’s right for you. It’s a new tool for you – not something to be ashamed of.

Also, the goal of medication is not (always) to get off the medication. For some, it will be – but if you find something that works for you, that is a long-term medication, and it continues to work, there is nothing that says you have to work to get off your meds. Don’t let anyone make you feel bad for doing what is right and healthy for you.