6 Mental Health Conditions Usually Treated with Medication

The topic of mental health has a stigma associated with it. While society has come far in de-stigmatizing this important topic, we still have a long way to go. Something that always comes up with mental health is medication. Medication can be extremely helpful for people who are struggling with their mental health. However, that doesn't mean it will be right for everyone, and there is nothing wrong with that, either. It's all about individual choice and what they believe will be their best option.

You may have been exploring the idea of reaching out for support, but you are unsure of how to proceed. Many options, including therapy and medication, can help you find the relief and healing you are searching for.

6 Mental Health Conditions that Are Treated with Medication

1. Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental health conditions that people deal with. It seems as if every year the amount of diagnoses of conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder(GAD), social anxiety, or phobias is on the rise.

There are generally two different options for treating anxiety. One is through medications that are quick-acting, such as Xanax. Option two is through antidepressants such as Zoloft.

2. Depression

Of course, depression is most commonly treated with antidepressants. Antidepressants come in two forms, either SSRIs or SNRIs. Both work in the body similarly, but one may be more appropriate depending on the individual. Prozac, Zoloft, Cymbalta, and Effexor are the four most common antidepressants that can help treat depression.

3. ADHD

ADHD is most commonly treated with stimulants that help increase dopamine and norepinephrine levels in the body. When these two chemicals become more balanced, they can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Stimulants may not be appropriate for every person, so it's important to talk with a professional and to explore non-stimulant options.

4. Bipolar Disorder

Mood stabilizers are the most commonly prescribed type of medication for treating bipolar disorder. This mental health condition, among other things, is characterized by frequent mood swings, known as high or low episodes. To help stabilize these episodes, these medications will help calm the brain down and bring hormones and chemicals into balance.

5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

To help treat OCD, a medical professional will probably prescribe an antidepressant. While antidepressants work to help with depressive symptoms, they are also beneficial for treating OCD.

6. Eating Disorders

At the core of many eating disorder issues lies self-esteem. Those who struggle with any type of eating disorder are more likely to struggle with their self-esteem and confidence in what they look like. Again, this is where antidepressants may be prescribed.

What to Know about Taking Medication

With the many options available, it can feel overwhelming to navigate this yourself. However, you don't have to tackle this alone. Even though stigma still exists about taking medication for a mental health condition, you still deserve the chance to explore this option fully.

Once you talk to a medical professional, remember that it likely won't be an instant fix. It can take weeks for any medication to begin to take full effect, and, of course, there could be side effects. Next, know your body chemistry might not work perfectly with a certain medication. That doesn't mean anything is wrong with you; it just means that a different medication is likely needed.

If you are overwhelmed by trying to navigate this, know there is help. At our practice, not only do we specialize in therapy, but we also can help with medication management. That means that you will have a supportive team who can help you every step of the way to begin feeling better.

Reach out to us to learn more about medication management and how we can help guide you throughout this process.