Sometimes, the journey to starting therapy can be a whole process in itself. And now
that you are here and have found a therapist that feels like a good fit, what happens when you start considering if medication could be a potential addition to your treatment? Many take
prescribed medications to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and
other mental health conditions. You may even know someone in your life who takes medication, and yet it is common for some to feel a barrier to broaching the topic, even in therapy.
Even though most therapists are not prescribers of medication, they can often be the
ones you turn to first. With the existing trust built in the therapeutic alliance, this could be a
space to explore your feelings about medication. What are your resistances? What do you
notice coming up for you when discussing the possibility of medication? Are there any fears
about discussing your symptoms or experiences with a new provider? In this blog, I will help
break down ways to communicate with your therapist and others about adding medication to
your mental health regimen.
Stigma or Shame
For some, there can be a stigma or shame around medication that could be conscious or
hidden under layers of societal pressure. You may wonder, “Is something ‘wrong’ with me?” if
you were to try a medication. “Am I ‘crazy’?” While the obvious answer is no, the intellectual
mind and your feelings may be telling you different messages. Is this narrative about medication told from your voice or someone else’s? It is important to distinguish the difference between honoring your truth and not living by someone else’s values.
It is not uncommon for some to feel that it could be weak to need medication to
overcome mental health conditions. This aligns with the fallacy that we do not need help. Or
maybe help can only look certain ways. These preconceived notions could limit your ability to
reconnect with yourself and alleviate the veil of symptoms that could be impeding growth or
change. You may be surprised by what you find when you slow down and give yourself
permission to challenge past ideas. Therapy is a space where you can name these feelings and process what they mean in the moment with your therapist. Remember, you are able to take things step by step. So, if starting medication is a potential end goal, exploring the feelings of even talking about medication is a wonderful place to start.
Fear
Similar to stigma and shame, yet different, some clients are afraid of turning to
medication. One fear could be the side effects of some medications. Weight gain can occur with some antidepressants. It may be frustrating to consider other parts of yourself changing as you work toward finding greater balance or peace in your mental health. This may also bring up new or historical insecurities related to your body. By sharing these fears with your therapist, you can reclaim your autonomy and not let the fear be in the driver’s seat.
More on navigating weight changes and antidepressants
Fear could also be related to expectations and length of medication usage. When
beginning a new medication, the first six to eight weeks is typically a time when your body is
adjusting, and you may not notice any changes. It is also possible that the first medication you try is not a good fit for you. This trial and error period could bring up emotions that might hold you back from even trying. Know that your therapist is there with you during this experimental time if you decide to go down that path. Meeting with a medication prescriber is typically brief and occurs infrequently. With your therapist, you can discuss what is coming up with you as you try something new. It is okay to be frustrated or scared of an unknown process.
You do not have to be alone with those feelings.
There is no one answer for how long you may want to take a psychiatric medication. For some, it can be a pillow to lean on during a challenging time or find their way back to a stable
place. For others, they may need or want medication for a more extended period. The important part to remember is that you have consent and autonomy. Additionally, with your approval, your therapist can speak with your PCP or prescriber to collaborate on your care. Imagine having multiple members on your team ensuring that you receive the treatment that speaks to your concerns and symptoms.
Openness With Your Therapist
Outside of any feelings you may have about medication, bringing up this topic with your
therapist can be a chance to practice overcoming discomfort in the therapeutic room. This could lead to a new level of closeness with your therapist, which could open the door to other areas of your life you have not brought up yet. It is also normal to ask your therapist about their own feelings on medication, both in general and for you specifically.
Another important part to remember is that our bodies are different and react uniquely to
medication. You may have heard of others’ journeys with medication that did not go well. Their story is not yours. Whatever symptoms you are experiencing, you may have been holding onto them for a long time before seeking help beyond psychotherapy. Your therapist holds you in a positive regard. Naming any barriers to giving medication a try can come with a level of authenticity and truth. It is also possible you discuss medication with your therapist and decide against it or want to wait for a later time. That is okay, too. The hope is that any stigma, shame, or fear does not inhibit you from talking about any symptoms or concerns you may have.
Learn more on discussing medication with your therapist
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