When it comes to taking care of our physical health, most of us have no problem scheduling a doctor’s appointment when something feels off. We visit the dentist regularly, see our primary care doctor for checkups, and reach for medicine when we have a cold. But when it comes to our mental health, it often feels like there’s a huge barrier in the way—stigma and misconceptions that keeps us from getting the help we need.
Let’s talk about that stigma, unpack some of the common myths about psychiatric medications, and explore why seeking mental health treatment is one of the most courageous things you can do for yourself.
The Stigma Around Mental Health: Why It Still Exists
For many, the idea of seeing a psychiatrist or taking medication for mental health can feel daunting. There’s an underlying belief in our society that needing mental health support is a sign of weakness, or that seeking help means there’s something fundamentally wrong with us. This stigma is deeply rooted in outdated and harmful beliefs. Until very recently, mental health issues were either ignored or misunderstood, leading to negative stereotypes and misconceptions that persist today.
In reality, seeking mental health treatment is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign of strength. It’s recognizing that you deserve to feel better, and that taking care of your mental well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health.
Common Misconceptions About Psychiatric Medications
One of the biggest barriers to seeking mental health treatment is the fear and misunderstanding surrounding psychiatric medications. You might have heard things like:
1. “Psychiatric medications will change who I am.”
Many people worry that taking medication will alter their personality or make them feel numb. While it’s true that finding the right medication and dosage can take time, the goal is not to change who you are but to help you feel more like yourself.
Medications can help reduce symptoms like anxiety, depression, or mood swings, allowing you to function better and engage more fully in your daily life.
2. “I’ll have to take medication forever.”
This is another common concern. The truth is, everyone’s journey with medication is different. Some people may only need medication temporarily, while others may benefit from long-term treatment. A psychiatric provider can work with you to create a plan that fits your unique needs, and you can always revisit the conversation as your circumstances and preferences change.
3. “Taking medication means I’ve failed.”
This couldn’t be further from the truth. Choosing to take medication is a proactive step towards improving your well-being. It’s no different than taking insulin for diabetes or using an inhaler for asthma. Mental health conditions are real, complex medical issues, and medications are one tool in the toolbox that can help.
4. “Therapy and medication are only for severe cases.”
One of the biggest myths is that only people with severe mental illnesses need treatment. The truth is, mental health exists on a spectrum. You don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from support. Maybe you’re feeling stuck, experiencing anxiety that disrupts your daily life, or dealing with lingering sadness. These are all valid reasons to seek help. Therapy can be a safe space to explore your thoughts, while medication can sometimes be a helpful tool in managing symptoms.
When is Medication the Right Choice?
Deciding whether medication might be right for you is a personal choice, and it’s one best made in partnership with a healthcare provider. Here are some signs it might be worth considering:
- You’ve been struggling with anxiety, depression, or other symptoms for an extended period, and lifestyle changes haven’t made enough of a difference.
- Your mental health symptoms are interfering with your daily life, making it hard to work, maintain relationships, or enjoy activities you once loved.
- You feel overwhelmed by your emotions, to the point where it’s hard to cope or function.
- You’ve tried therapy alone, but it hasn’t given you the relief you were hoping for.
The Benefits of Talking to a Psychiatric Provider
If you’ve ever thought about seeking help but felt unsure or scared, you’re not alone. It’s normal to feel hesitant when taking that first step. But talking to a psychiatric provider can be incredibly beneficial, even if it’s just to explore your options and get more information.
Here’s what you can expect from that first appointment:
- A safe, non-judgmental space to share your story. Your provider is there to listen and help you understand what might be going on with your mental health. They’ll ask questions about your symptoms, history, and lifestyle to get a comprehensive picture of your well-being.
- A collaborative approach to your care. Your provider isn’t there to force medications on you. Instead, they’re there to work with you to determine what treatment options might be most helpful. This could include medications, therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these.
- Personalized recommendations. Mental health isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your provider will tailor their recommendations based on your unique needs, symptoms, and preferences.
Taking the First Step
Reaching out for help is a brave and self-compassionate step. You deserve to feel supported, understood, and empowered in your mental health journey. If any of this resonates with you, I want you to know that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s a way of acknowledging that you deserve to feel better, to live a life where your mental health isn’t holding you back.
Whether you’re just beginning to explore your mental health or you’re considering if medication could be a helpful addition to your treatment plan, I invite you to schedule an appointment. This isn’t a commitment to starting medication right away—it’s simply a conversation. It’s a space for us to talk about your concerns, answer your questions, and figure out what might work best for you.
You don’t have to go through this alone. Let’s work together to find a path forward that supports your well-being and helps you thrive.
If you’re ready to take that step, or even if you just want to ask a few questions, I’m here for you. Schedule an appointment today, and let’s start this journey towards better mental health, together.
Holly Lecklider, MSN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
