The rule of abstinence from all mood altering chemicals is a good one for drug addicts and alcoholics recovery to follow. In fact it is necessary in almost all cases.
This, however, leads to conflicting advice and misconceptions when it comes to doctor prescribed medications for help with anxiety, depression and mental health issues. It is very important to have a frank open and honest discussion with your doctor concerning your addiction. In many cases there are alternative medicines that can be used that may not affect your addiction.
It is usually an error however to stop taking depression or anti-anxiety medications without consulting your doctor. It may be a case of the medicine working; you feel good, therefore believe you don’t need the medicine. Quitting the medication can bring you back to depression or anxiety and that can be a distinct relapse trigger. It is a normal, but counterintuitive idea that if we are feeling better we don’t need the medication.
Any move with medications should be taken only after expert consultation preferably from a doctor who is an addictionologist or is a member of ASAM (American Society of Addiction Medicine).
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
Very useful article. It’s very true that the medication which should be given to addicted person should be prescribed by doctor and patient should freely discuss their problem.
Anti-depressants are truly a crime against humanity.
The fact that people can be legally forced into drug-dependence is something that is beyond me.
It’s disgusting and devilish. And the worst part, is the majority of people who rely on pharmaceuticals are the seniors. And seniors are more likely to keep their crutches til their death. But THIS IS DISGUSTING. HOW CAN WE LOOK AT THE EMPTY SHELLS OF DEPRESSED DRUGGED UP SENIORS AND THINK THINGS ARE OKAY!?
Absolutely stunning.
Medication as always and as a must must be duly prescribed by doctors. Every medicinal drug has its effect on our body and misuse of it can really cause an unwanted outcome.
I find this article very useful as this happens to be the issues of many people in different places. Anti- depressant when abused can cause unwanted effects on our body.
We want to be healthy and not to get sick… It is a must then that we should take care of ourselves and learn to do things right to not regret things…
Thanks for sharing with us its quite interesting and informative information which is very useful to us.