Psychotropic Medications are not a Necessity in All Mental Health Cases

Psychotropic drugs can help or hurt individuals for many different reasons. It has been, and continues to be common practice to administer drugs to individuals who are affected by mental health issues regardless of mildness or severity. Western culture is so consumed with fixing every "supposed" anomaly that we sometimes forget to use rationality in decision-making. Mind you, anomalies are subjective according to an individual's beliefs because what may be abnormal for one person may in fact be normal to another person. However, the "know-it-all" textbook nature of many in authority prevents rational thinking from surfacing when treating individuals who may or may not have mental health issues. For example, it is extremely common for Disabled Veterans to be inundated with prescription drugs for mental health issues. The philosophy seems to be that "if one drug does not work, then another will". Providers typically fail to address the combined effects of the many drugs being administered to their clients / patients. Negative effects typically outweigh the positive effects, and individuals usually find themselves becoming more ill than when they first entered treatment. As an individual who has had the experience of being treated by multiple providers who failed to communicate with each other about their lack of treatment plans, medication administrations, and changing health status, I would personally advise individuals with mental health issues or physical illnesses to be an active part of their treatment. Do not completely depend on your providers to be the best mode of treatment and information outlet. Actively research and evaluate your health status and changes so that you can have some idea about what works for your particular situation. During my dependence on my providers, I took many medications based on their recommendations. The result was gaining more than 50lbs in about one year, and not being able to fit in any of my clothing. My complete dependence on my providers for helping with my health concerns turned out to be a rather depressing and expensive venture. Originally, I was wearing size 2 and 4 clothing and weight was not a concern. Afterwards, I was 50lbs heavier, which resulted in exacerbation of health issues, new health issues, and no money to purchase a new wardrobe. I am still struggling to lose all the weight gained, and also to reduce and eventually eliminate the health issues that surfaced during treatment. I hope that based on this article, readers will keep in mind that active participation and independent decision-making is the best way to approach their healthcare.