One of the hardest challenges for learning to manage a severe #mentalillness is going through the process of finding the right meds. For seven years I was in a constant state of not knowing if the side effects were from coming onto a new medication, coming off an old medication, normal effects of my illness or uncontrolled effects of my illness. The last drug in my cocktail hit me the hardest coming onto it, but I persevered through two weeks of hell and now I fall asleep gently in its arms.
@allin yeah I am grateful that my doctor at the time was experimental and not afraid to go digging through his books to find new things to try. Some doctors will only try a few different meds and kick you out the door with the one that is the least terrible. I am in a good spot now though.
@BipolarArtist I’m go glad for you and I hope your path to good mental health takes you to the most effective treatments. 🙂
@allin thanks! I feel like I’m doing pretty well now. But I’ve been doing this for 16 years.
@allin a big problem is that a lot of patients are inconsistent with their meds, which can make the whole thing a fools errand. It is on patients and doctors to find the right path together. Find a doctor that you vibe with. Take your meds every day no matter how bad it gets.
@BipolarArtist I certainly found that to be true for my brother who has BPD. I’m glad you’ve found something that works for you. I’m hoping for a more effective way to determine the correct meds for all who struggle.