Whether you are recently diagnosed or suspect that you have a mental health condition, it’s important to know that there is an incredible range of resources available to help, including prescription drugs. However, for those who are new to treatment, taking medicine that affects your mood can be intimidating. To help patients gain a better understanding of how these drugs work, Emerald City Medical Arts—a comprehensive health clinic in Seattle, WA—answers a few common questions about mental health medication.

5 FAQs About Mental Health Medicine

What Are the Different Types of Mental Illness Medications?

The main types of medication include antidepressants, anti-anxiety, stimulants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and stimulants. While each of these treatments works similarly by adjusting brain chemistry or activity, they all specifically address different conditions and symptoms. For example, stimulants are often used to increase alertness in people with ADHD, while antipsychotics may control brain chemical production to help balance behavior and emotions in those with bipolar disorder.

How Do I Know Which Treatment Is Best?

Mental illness medications are highly individualized, so what may work for one patient may not work best for you. By classifying your condition and assessing your symptoms, a primary care physician or a mental health specialist will determine the best drugs and dosages for you. Prescriptions may be adjusted—or combined with other treatments—depending on your overall response.

How Are Mental Illness Medications Taken?

Most drugs are taken in pill form, but the frequency may vary. For example, some people only take medication when symptoms arise, like when they need anxiety relief. Other prescriptions may require daily use to prevent or minimize symptoms from occurring.

Will Medication Cure  My Condition?

Although the severity and duration of symptoms can change, mental health conditions usually aren’t curable. Medication, however, can prevent symptoms from occurring or worsening and allow people to live healthy, productive lives.

What If I Don’t Like My Medication?

If you experience negative side effects or the symptoms do not improve, it’s critical not to stop your prescription without visiting your health clinic first. If these drugs are stopped abruptly, severe side effects or withdrawal may occur. As such, your provider may need to prescribe a new treatment or taper your dose to prevent complications.

When you or someone you love is affected by mental health challenges, medication could be life-saving. If you have concerns about depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other condition, the specialists at Emerald City Medical Arts can help you explore potential treatment options and set you on the path to a balanced life. Taking a compassionate and confidential approach to care, these physicians will take time to review your symptoms in-depth and address any questions you have about treatment. To learn more about the services, visit this Seattle, WA, health clinic online, or call (206) 281-1616 to schedule a convenient appointment.