Medication – choice and managing problems

Medication can play a key role in treating mental illness. Unfortunately, sometimes people have problems with taking this medication that make them feel that it’s not right for them. This section considers ways of trying to resolve problems with medication. Here, the word ‘doctor’ means psychiatrists and general practitioners (GPs).
•Medication is a key part of the treatment of mental illness, but it is not the only treatment. A lot of people find ‘talking treatments’, self-help and complementary therapies helpful.
•People with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety disorders are normally offered medication by their doctor. However, not all illnesses are treated this way. For example, people with a sole diagnosis of personality disorder are not normally offered medication.
•Your doctor should explain the risks and benefits of taking your medication before you start taking it.
•You can expect to be given an opportunity to ask questions about your medication and to have these questions answered.
•Unfortunately, all medications carry a risk of side effects. It is important to try to find the right balance between reducing symptoms and managing side effects.
•If you have a problem with your medication, talk to your doctor about it. If you find this difficult, you might wish to ask a friend, relative or advocate to help you.
•You may have to try a few different medicines before you find the one that is right for you.
•If you cannot resolve disputes informally with your doctor you could try writing them a letter about our concerns or making a complaint.