If you have been to the GP you might have been referred to CAMHS (Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and it is possible medication may have been discussed.
The most common medications for anxiety, depression and mood regulation in the UK are:
- Citalopram
- Fluoxetine
- Sertraline
Others may well be prescribed that may suit you as we are all unique in our height, build, symptoms and presentation of our mental health so for more information visit the NHS website. Here they explain how they work and how they help your brain to manage low moods and high emotions.
Our brains are utterly unique. Every single person has a unique chemistry in their bodies so, sometimes, it might take a couple of tries to fit the right medication that suits your chemical make up.
It is vital that you tell your Doctor straight away if you have any kind of physical reaction to medication but also if you begin to feel lower in your mood or have bad thoughts or dreams. It isn’t uncommon, it just means they can find the best thing to suit you.
Medication is a personal choice that needs to be fully weighed up by the person themselves, but listen to what the professionals think about how it might benefit you.
Here are some pointers to consider:
- It’s your choice. As a young adult the decision to take medication is yours; however the people who have recommend it will have trained for many years to help you, so consider their advice.
- Research what the options are. Ask for information about each medication they mention, ask them to write it down as often the spelling is a little complicated!
- Talk to others. Ask your parents or trusted friends for their views. These are the people who know you best and know what you have been struggling with; work through it with them.
- Ask questions. When you have an appointment write down all your questions about the medication you are being offered, the dosages, how long it takes to begin to work and any side effects.
- Don’t be rushed. It’s your choice; take your time to decide.
For more information and advise about specific medication you might have been prescribed, check out Young Minds.