Managing Medication Changes: Coping with Mental Health Challenges

Changes in medication?

Doctor: I took my medication and felt drowsy and emotional, crying.
I felt hot all over, with a temperature of 38.5°C and blood pressure at 83/62/94.
I returned for a follow-up appointment on Saturday and slept for two hours.
After taking my medication around seven, I couldn't take it anymore and started crying around eight.
I told my online friends that I was feeling very unwell and asked them to help me terminate my contract; I didn't want to hold on any longer.
I ended up sleeping until four in the morning.
Unable to cope, I called a mental health hotline, but they kept telling me to leave my home or ignore my family.
I couldn't take it and ended up arguing with them.
I slept again until after seven in the afternoon, took my medication, and self-harmed.
This time, I did it in front of my instructor and paramedic friends.
He initially said he would report it, but I asked him not to.
I told him that I had taken all my medication to show him.
He said he wouldn't report it, and he even gave me the number for the Changhua Fire Department.
I retorted that he shouldn't contact me from such an inhumane place.
Then he asked me to show him my hands to see my injuries.
I am struggling with these behaviors; I don't know what to do.
I took my medication around seven, and at that moment, I thought about taking it again...
but is that okay? I keep breaking out in cold sweats.

MM, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2011/09/12

Dr. Lin Junyuan reply Psychiatry

Hello, online consultations may not provide immediate responses.
This situation was mentioned in previous outpatient visits.
We have confidence in your abilities, and with continuous outpatient follow-up, we believe you can gradually improve.
Additionally, it is not recommended to take two doses of the medication at once!

Reply Date: 2011/09/12

More Info

It sounds like you are going through an incredibly challenging time with your mental health and medication management. The symptoms you describe—feeling drowsy, experiencing emotional distress, and having physical reactions like elevated body temperature and low blood pressure—are concerning and warrant immediate attention from a healthcare professional.
First and foremost, it is crucial to communicate openly with your psychiatrist or mental health provider about the side effects you are experiencing. The symptoms you mentioned, such as excessive drowsiness and emotional instability, can be side effects of certain psychiatric medications, particularly antidepressants or antipsychotics. It is essential to discuss these side effects with your doctor, as they may need to adjust your medication regimen. Sometimes, the dosage may be too high, or the specific medication may not be the right fit for you.
Self-harm is a serious issue, and if you are feeling overwhelmed to the point of harming yourself, it is vital to seek immediate help. Please consider reaching out to a crisis hotline or a mental health professional who can provide you with the support you need. It is important to have a safety plan in place, which can include identifying coping strategies, supportive friends or family members to talk to, and emergency contacts if you feel you are in crisis.

In terms of medication management, it is not uncommon for individuals with mental health conditions to experience a trial-and-error process when finding the right medication. This process can be frustrating and disheartening, especially when side effects complicate your daily life. It is essential to be patient with yourself and to keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider. They can help you explore alternative medications or adjunct therapies that may alleviate some of the side effects you are experiencing.

Additionally, consider discussing non-pharmacological interventions with your healthcare provider. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be beneficial in managing anxiety, depression, and coping with medication side effects. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can also help you manage stress and emotional distress.

Lastly, it is important to create a supportive environment for yourself. Surround yourself with understanding friends and family who can provide emotional support. Engage in activities that bring you joy or relaxation, even if they feel challenging at the moment. Remember that recovery is a journey, and it is okay to seek help along the way.

In summary, please prioritize your safety and well-being by reaching out for professional help. Discuss your medication side effects with your psychiatrist, explore therapy options, and build a support network. You do not have to navigate this alone, and there are resources available to help you through this difficult time.

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