What do you do when you know you're on the right medication but don't get the desired results?
Every day I am applying my coping tools to tackle symptoms. I am aware of my signs and triggers. Although the medication controls signature symptoms that characterizes schizophrenia, I still have other symptoms to deal with. My recurring issues are depression, anxiety, and irritability.
Depression is a huge problem. Because just when I think I've found a way to combat the feelings and physical challenges with depression I realize I've been fooled, again, and that moment of relief was just that- a moment.
Depression looks different for everybody. For me it could be lack of hygiene, severe fatigue, back pain, procrastination, no motivation nor energy to perform even simple tasks, and negative thinking. Those concerns seem manageable with an aspirin, hot shower, vitamin, daily agenda, and a good pep talk with yourself- but in the midst of depression its not that simple.
Having a good day requires a lot of effort for me when I'm depressed. Overcoming depression from the time I wake up to get out of bed, get ready, straighten up surroundings, and practice a personal routine to uplift my spirits, it's a chore to have a good day.
In the past, I've tackled my mental health concerns with therapy, medication and a rigorous self-care program. From time to time that program focused on a mood journal, realistic journal, resting, walking, meditation, listening to music and motivational talks, volunteering and reciting affirmations. Now I think its time to get back to performing those chores to have a good day.
And, when I find a medication cocktail that lightens the load to relieve me of chores it's a great season. Then I could start my day on time and have energy to complete responsibilities and handle typical stressors like traffic or someone's negativity and so forth with ease.
While I've sampled, changed, and adjusted my medications over time, especially last year, to manage my depression, there seems to be a pressing question that lingers in the back of my mind. And, I'm thinking about it now. What do you do when you know you're on the right medication (dosage and all) but don't get the desired results?
Yet, I think I've answered my own question. Since the medication can only go so far, I must change my self-care system. I hate change. Change for me takes a process. I have to see it. Put myself in the clothes and envision myself doing the things I must do and seeing the rewards- waking up in a better mood with minimal effort. Then finally activate the plan and do it! Changing my style and approach to wellbeing. I've already adjusted my medication regimen with my doctor now I must change the self-care plan and do these chores to have better days.
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