Medicine and More
By Janet Gray, CNS
Dunn Center
As published in The Palladium-Item Community Column 2/1/06
What does it mean to take medicines to help the mind function in better ways? Most would agree that recovery from a mental disorder requires more than psychiatric medicines. Wayne County has a network of doctors, psychologists, therapists and advanced practice nurses using a holistic approach to the treatment of illnesses such as depression, anxiety, bipolar and schizophrenia.
Knowledge of brain functioning grows in leaps and bounds each year. Recently, research has begun on ten new neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Neurotransmitters---the brain chemicals that enable brain parts to communicate and function---get unbalanced by many factors. Thinking patterns develop that need to be "rewired" or changed to stop unhealthy thoughts, perceptions and behaviors. New medicines, in combination with counseling, prayer, meditation, exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes, have revolutionized the degree to which recovery from mental distress is possible,
The newer psychiatric medicines allow for more alertness and higher brain functioning with fewer unwanted side effects. Combine the new options in medicines with caring practitioners who seek to offer service out of love for humanity and respect for each individual and results can be outstanding.
Let us be clear about the role of medicine in recovery from mental disorders. Are they just “crutches?” Consider the analogy of a broken leg. When a bone is broken, a splint or casting is used to stabilize it and a person uses a crutch for support. Similarly, some people need medicines for brain chemical stabilization. The need for medication may be temporary, especially when counseling and education are used to promote changes a person seeks in his or her life. However, chronic disturbances in the neurotransmitter and brain pathway function may require medicines and other supports for years. Recovery programs are tailored to meet the needs of the individual because effective combinations and dosages of medicine change over time.
The importance of patients and their families understanding illness through education is part of the holistic approach. Educational programs, therapy, prayer, exercise, movement therapies such as yoga, nutrition, journaling, talk therapy, and group support are encouraged in conjunction with medication.
Take action if you or a loved one suffers from mental distress. Contact the professionals listed in the phone directories or call 983-8000 to get in touch with holistic mental health providers. Recovery is possible...suffering can be stopped, and you and your family will be involved in tailoring a treatment plan that will assist you in reaching your goals.