Taking medication for your mental health can feel like a big step, but you're not alone. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I'm here to help you understand your options and feel confident in your treatment. 

What is Medication Management? 

Think of medication management as a partnership between you and your healthcare provider. It's more than just getting a prescription. It's a continuous process where we:  

* Discuss your symptoms and goals. We'll talk about how you're feeling and what you hope to achieve with treatment.  

* Choose the right medication. There are many types of medications, and finding the right one can take time. We'll find a medication that fits your specific needs.  

* Adjust the dose. We'll start with a low dose and slowly increase it until we find what  works best for you, while minimizing side effects.  

* Monitor your progress. We'll have regular check-ins to see how the medication is working and if you're experiencing any side effects.  

* Talk about side effects. All medications can have side effects. We'll discuss what to look for and how to manage them. 

What to Expect at Your Appointment 

When you come in for an appointment, we’ll talk about how you’re doing since your last visit. Here are some things to think about and be ready to share:  

* How are your symptoms? Are you feeling better, worse, or the same? For example, if you're taking medication for anxiety, you might share if you feel less worried or if your panic attacks are happening less often.  

* Are you having any side effects? Be honest about what you’re experiencing, even if it feels small. Common side effects can include things like a headache, feeling sleepy, or an upset stomach. These often get better over time, but it’s important to tell me about them so we can adjust your treatment if needed.  

* Any new health changes? Let me know if you have new medical conditions or are taking any new medications, vitamins, or supplements. This information is important because some medications can interact with each other. 

Key Things to Remember  

* Be patient. Finding the right medication and dose can take weeks or even months. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.  

* Don't stop on your own. If you feel better, don't stop taking your medication without talking to your provider first. Stopping suddenly can be dangerous and cause your symptoms to return.  * Follow the directions. Take your medication exactly as prescribed. If you forget a dose, call and ask what to do.  
* It's okay to ask questions. If you don't understand something, please ask! Your treatment is a team effort. 

I'm here to support you every step of the way. With open communication and a commitment to working together, we can help you find a path to feeling better. 

If you choose not to get help at State of Mind Wellness please get help somewhere.