Table of Contents
Is self-medicating the same as addiction?
Whether it’s to seek relief from discomfort, escape from reality, or enhance mood, there are many reasons that people self-medicate. Because of the positive effects of self-medicating, it’s common for addiction to develop, especially if the underlying causes are never resolved.
How do you overcome self-medication?
Self-medication can be avoided by: Attending behavioral programs to understand stress management techniques and gain confidence. Understanding ways to manage the symptoms or stress factors and use appropriate treatment options.
How can I stop self-medication?
Use all medicines as directed by a health professional. Never share your prescription medications with others or use someone else’s prescription medications. Always store your medications securely to prevent others from using them and properly dispose off that are no longer in use.
When does self-medication go wrong?
Potential risks of self-medication practices include: incorrect self-diagnosis, delays in seeking medical advice when needed, infrequent but severe adverse reactions, dangerous drug interactions, incorrect manner of administration, incorrect dosage, incorrect choice of therapy, masking of a severe disease and risk of …
What are the five consequences of self-medication?
Self-medication can lead to drug addiction, allergy, habituation, worsening of ailment, incorrect diagnosis and dosage, or even disability and pre-mature death. This is the reason why people must avoid self-medication at all cost.
How do you control self-medication?
Self-medication can be avoided by:
- Attending behavioral programs to understand stress management techniques and gain confidence.
- Understanding ways to manage the symptoms or stress factors and use appropriate treatment options.
- Improving the understanding of label and leaflet accompanying the medication.
What are the disadvantages of self-medication?
The risks of self-medication include:
- Incorrect self-diagnosis.
- Delays in seeking appropriate medical advice and proper treatment.
- Potential adverse reactions.
- Worsening of the condition the individual is trying to self-treat.
- Dangerous drug interaction.
- Masking of severe diseases.
- Risk of dependence and abuse.
What are dangers of self-medication?
What is the best way to deal with depression?
Talk therapy. Approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy – which focuses on concrete goals and how your own thoughts and behaviors contribute to your depression — can really help people with depression. There’s some evidence it works especially well with treatment-resistant depression.
What should I do if my antidepressant isn’t working?
If your depression symptoms return for more than a few days, it’s time to see your doctor. But even if you feel like your antidepressant isn’t working, it’s important to keep taking it until your doctor advises otherwise. You may need a dosage increase or a slow tapering off process.
How can I manage anxiety and depression after drug addiction treatment?
If you are receiving drug addiction therapy, it’s important to focus on stress relief as well, so anxiety and/or depression don’t become overwhelming. You can try: Going for a walk. Practicing yoga or meditation. Picturing somewhere peaceful, such as a beach. Seeking pleasant scents, such as flowers. Playing with a pet.
Do you have treatment-resistant depression?
As many as two-thirds of people with depression aren’t helped by the first antidepressant they try. Up to a third don’t respond to several attempts at treatment. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) can leave you feeling hopeless and discouraged. Months or even years can go by without any relief.