It is common when seeing someone struggling with their mental health or in crisis to ask me “can you just give me a pill to make this all better?” The answer to that question is no. While some medications can help alleviate symptoms, no medications will completely reduce all mental health struggles. To succeed you need to take your time and dedicate yourself for betterment. By doing all this, you are teaching yourself better habits and will see lasting success.
When do medications work for mental health?
Medications work best when combined with positive behavior. I tell my patients, a good medication regimen is designed to take the edge off the struggle, letting you as a patient make more rewarding changes. Change is something adopted over time and takes special attention and focus to achieve success. In the same way, medications should never be stopped without your provider’s support. This is also a common problem I encounter, which can lead to a psychiatric crisis.
Adapt and overcome – Think Positive
We are all creatures of habit, so to change a negative habit and how we view our lives, we must first adapt. Easier said than done? Well, first try to start each morning with a positive thought! Too many times when first waking, our minds travel first to our worries and concerns, which can impact your mood and change your day. We seem to be goal focused and strive to produce never-ending products which can relate to our discomfort. Instead, focus on the good. Focus on why you rise each morning and try to be better. Whatever that reason, whether it be your children, your idea of life, or even just a feeling of worth.
We want to promote and build coping skills to build strength for when you are struggling. Start with a simple perspective shift by asking yourself “why?”. Why do we want to change, how do we see our lives differently, and are we committed to put in the work? Attach these answers to goals to help keep you motivated. It can be hard but is doable – it just takes practice and patience.
Medication’s support and help overcome, allowing us to become more successful in achieving these goals but the work remains something you have to do to achieve true balanced mental health.
About Charles Jarvis, LMHC Charles Jarvis is a licensed mental health counselor practicing in Massachusetts with a master’s degree in counseling psychology. He has been working in mental health since 2008 and has held a variety of critical roles. As a community hospital site manager, he has a specialized focus on those in the community experiencing mental health crises. In addition, he has worked in outpatient therapy, day, and community programs as well as specializing in populations with life-threatening symptoms. He enjoys talking to people with an aim to support his clients in their goal to achieve a better life experience.
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