Making A Choice: What Kinds of Things Should You Know About Antipsychotic Medication?
Decisions about your mental health treatment are very important. Antipsychotic medication is one treatment option that can be very effective in treating a variety of issues and may be recommended to help a person gain control of his or her life while the cause of the problem is being addressed.
Antipsychotic medication may be recommended when a person is struggling with hallucinations, delusions, mood disorders or aggression that gets in the way of daily life. There are also risks to taking antipsychotic medication. This guide will help you explore the risks and benefits so you can make an informed decision with your doctor and caregiver.
It’s important that you know that medication is just one tool that can help you overcome mental health challenges. You have the right to know all your treatment and support options. Other treatment options may include different medications, exercise, diet, meditation and counseling. You, your doctor, and your caregiver should discuss all your treatment options and create a plan that works for you.
There are risks to taking antipsychotic medications, which may include weight gain, tiredness, changes in blood pressure, movement disorders (i.e. Tardive Dyskinesia), high cholesterol and/or diabetes. Antipsychotics are not addictive but stopping these medications without your doctor’s guidance can be very dangerous, so you’ll need to work closely with your doctor in all your medication decisions.
Making A Choice: What Are Your Rights?
Here is an excerpt from Maine’s Youth Bill of Rights, specific to Mental Health:
- You have the right to have an informed choice in the types of physical, dental and mental health care you receive.
- You have the right to have a choice and options when a treatment provider is being assigned to them.
- You have the right to see and understand your treatment plans, be informed about and have a say in treatment decisions being made.
- You have a right to be informed about medications, medication options and to have a voice in decisions about prescription of medication.
- You have a right to not be overmedicated, to not be punished for refusal to take medications, and to be made aware of the possible risks that come from refusing to take medication.
- You should be able to have visitation with people that are important to you while receiving treatment.
- You should be able to receive care and services that are fair, respectful, safe, confidential and free from discrimination.
- You have a right to access to your medical records.
Download the attached PDF for more information and exercizes!
