Key Takeaways
Choosing a psychiatric medication is a very personal experience. However, a trusted provider who understands your needs and goals can help you choose the best medication for you.
Finding the right medication may take some time. Try to have patience, but don’t hesitate to talk to your provider if something doesn’t feel right.
During this time, you can play an active role in your treatment by asking questions, setting goals, tracking your symptoms, and leaning on additional supports (like therapy and self-care).
If you’re considering taking psychiatric medication, you might be wondering how to know which one to choose. The options can seem endless with so many medications available. Fortunately, this isn’t a decision you have to make on your own. A trusted psychiatric provider who understands your needs can help you navigate this decision.
Medication management is an important part of psychiatric care. Your psychiatric provider can advise you on the potential pros and cons of different medications and make recommendations about which one might be best for you. They can also help you manage unwanted side effects and prescribe an alternative medication if what you’re taking isn’t providing relief from your symptoms.
However, keep in mind that there’s no “right” medication for everyone. Something that works for one person might not help the next person in the same way. Also, remember that mental health treatment isn’t a linear process. Your need for medication (and the type you use) can change throughout your life.
Choosing a medication is a highly personalized experience, and it may take some time for you to see results. But the following tips can help you learn more about the process and play an active role in your treatment journey.
Ask questions
Before starting a medication, you can ask your provider any questions you may have. For example, you might want to ask them about:
How long a medication might take to work
Any potential side effects and how to manage them
How to know if a medication is effective
How to contact your provider between appointments
If you’re curious, you can also ask about how various psychiatric medications work. We don’t have a complete understanding of all the things that make medications effective. But your psychiatrist can help you understand how these medications affect the mind and body and, in turn, provide symptom relief.
Consider your treatment goals
Psychiatric medications can be life-changing for many people. But they can’t cure mental health conditions. The goal of taking medication can vary from person to person. But for most people, it’s about making symptoms less disruptive and easier to manage.
Think about what you hope to achieve from taking psychiatric medication. What would relief look like to you? For example, maybe you want to be able to focus better, feel more motivated, or achieve greater emotional stability. Having an understanding of your goals and sharing them with your provider can help them determine which medications might be most effective for you.
Keep a symptom journal
You may need to try a few different medications and doses before you find what works best for you. During that time, it can be helpful to keep a log of how you’re feeling. Sometimes, symptom changes can be subtle. Without pausing to reflect, you might miss small improvements.
It can also be helpful to take notes on the potential side effects of taking medication. That way, you can share these details with your provider during your next visit. You can do this on paper, in your phone, or with a symptom tracker app designed for that purpose. These insights can help you and your provider make informed decisions about whether to adjust your dose, switch medications, add an additional medication, etc.
Advocate for yourself
Research shows that when patients play an active role in treatment decision making, they’re more likely to stay engaged with their care. In turn, the outcomes of treatment improve. In other words, when it comes to selecting a medication, your voice matters.
Your psychiatrist may have deep knowledge of the different types of psychiatric medications. But you’re the expert on yourself. If something doesn’t feel right or you don’t feel comfortable taking a certain medication, don’t hesitate to speak up. Your provider’s role is to collaborate with you to help you meet your goals. If you don’t feel supported, it’s OK to seek a second opinion.
Have patience
Taking psychiatric medication often requires some trial and error, and you may not experience immediate relief. Try to have patience with the process, and know that you can always talk to your provider if you have concerns.
Remember, psychiatric medication is just one part of treatment. As you work to find the right medication for your needs, it can be helpful to lean on your other supports. This might mean talking to a therapist, attending a support group, connecting with friends and family, or making some extra time for self-care.
Clinician's take
A common misunderstanding about psychiatric medications is that they will change who you are or that you have to be on them forever. There are times when long-term use is needed; however, that isn’t guaranteed. Also, these medications don’t change who you are in terms of your personality.
Find care with Rula
Choosing a psychiatric medication is a highly personalized experience. Your psychiatric provider can guide you through the process by helping you understand how various medications work, making suggestions, and sharing the pros and cons of different medications.
Keep in mind that what works for one person may not work for you. So don’t hesitate to speak up and advocate for yourself if something doesn’t feel right. While it might take some trial and error, you and your provider can work together to find the best medication for your needs and goals.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 21,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
