Going on medication of any kind is a big step.
Many people still see their doctor as an authority figure who should not be questioned.
Consulting with your doctor or health professional on depression medication is especially difficult due to the stigma related to mental illness and the inherent vulnerability stemming from the subject matter.
Below is a list of essential questions to ask your doctor before going on medication.
Many people find it useful to print out the list and carry it with them.
I would suggest writing down the answers.
The amount of information given in a short consultation is hard to remember.
If your doctor is unwilling or unable to answer the following questions I would suggest a second opinion.
New drugs may be less familiar to them but there are many different ways they can access the information to answer your questions during your consultation.
It's a two way street, for doctors to make appropriate recommendations about medication they need all the facts about your symptoms and past medical history.
What are the reasons for choosing this medication over other alternatives? What will the medication do? What are the side effects? How long will the side effects last? How long before it works? What is involved in coming off the drug? What are the other options? Are they any precautions? (e.
g.
other medications or previous illness) It's important to be aware that medication may give relief but the psychological and lifestyle factors that are contributing to depression still need to be addressed Medication may give you the motivation to attend to the problems that are holding you back from recovery.
Remember it is your choice.
You have the right to consult another doctor.
To explore natural therapies.
To change medication if after giving it a trial it's not right for you If you are still not sure do more research ask your pharmacist, naturopath, find reputable sources of information on the internet or ask your doctor for any written material they may have on the drug.
Discuss it with trusted friends, you will be surprised once you start the conversation how many people have tried different medications at different times in their life.
Their experience though individual and dependent on their particular situation is still valuable information to help you decide what is right for you.
It may take some trial and error and some patience but if you find something that helps you get your life back on track then its worth it.