Should I Take Medication for Depression?
Are We Over-medicated?
Many people in our society believe that we have too many children and adults on medicine for depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Yet many people, including myself, also have or have had a strong resistance to taking any medication. Parents have said, “I do not want my kids walking around like a zombie on medication!” So, should I take medicine for depression?
My Anti-depressant Story
I would suggest that we have a love-hate relationship with medication. In my own life, I started taking an anti-depressant about twenty years ago. With a combination of medication and counseling, my symptoms were relieved. Yet, years later, my therapist noticed that much of what we were discussing were the symptoms of depression, such as less enjoyment out of my favorite activities, sleeping issues, and negative thoughts. She suggested that maybe I see my doctor and ask her about an additional medication. My response? WTH? Two medications? There was no way I was going to take two antidepressants! I persisted in my aversion to a second medication (as I had the first medication, decades ago).
When I finally did go see my doctor, she prescribed a second medication. Different medications affect different neurotransmitters in the brain. The second medication worked on a different neurotransmitter than the first one. Within weeks, I felt more enjoyment. Most noteworthy, I felt more social (as an introvert!). As a result, I was talking to strangers, enjoying my job more, and being more productive. This is great!
A Lesson about Medication and Depression
Then it dawned on me. OMG! My resistance to medicine may have cost me increased happiness. Probably for many years! I am not trying to convince anyone to take medication. No one can make you take it. I can only tell you my story, the story of a guy who resisted medication at the cost of his happiness. Is your resistance costing you or your child? Considering this question does not mean you have to take it! We’re just talking.
