Understanding Medication Management

While medication is not right for everyone, many patients do find success with prescription medication. For some individuals, medication is necessary only in the short term while other patients may need long-term medication to treat chronic mental health issues.

Whether taking medication for acute or chronic conditions, every patient needs to engage in medication management to ensure the safety and efficacy of their prescription medication. Effective medication management is a crucial part of mental health care.

Medication management for mental health is very different than medication management for physical ailments. A patient who needs an antibiotic for an infection, for example, only needs to follow up if symptoms persist. For psychiatric and mental health patients, however, consulting with your provider about your medications is an ongoing process because symptoms may improve and/ or some medications may not be as effective for you as it would another individual. Therefore adjustments may be needed throughout the medication management process.

Mental health providers typically prescribe medications in recommended dosages that have worked for the majority of patients. What to expect? The patient begins treatment, then returns for a follow-up to discuss the results with the provider. Your mental health specialist may then make adjustments to the dosage or even switch medications, if necessary. There are pros to psychiatric medication that may be beneficial to the patient such as: increased chances of recovery, alleviate symptoms, and provide relief so that individuals can conduct their daily lives.