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.
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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.
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.
Halee Fullerton, PMHNP-BC
Clinical reviewer
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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 here to help you feel better. Rula makes it easy to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who takes your insurance. That way, you don’t have to choose between great care and a price you can afford.
Rula patients pay about $15 per session with insurance, and 93% say they feel better after getting care through Rula. We have 21,000+ providers, and appointments are available as soon as tomorrow. We’re here to help you take the next step — wherever you are in your mental health journey.
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
Halee Fullerton, PMHNP-BC
Halee is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. She has worked in outpatient community health with children/adolescents as well as inpatient substance use disorder treatment. She currently sees patients via outpatient telehealth. Before becoming a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she worked in emergency rooms, medical-surgical units, long-term care facilities (including Alzheimer/dementia units) and the intensive care unit.
She chose a career in mental health because she wanted to help people and to contribute to breaking down stigma around mental health. She is especially passionate about working with people who are navigating substance use disorders, depressive disorders, and anxiety/trauma-related disorders. She has three labradoodles that she adores.
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