Topic 1: Role of Medication in Managing Symptoms
When people take medication as part of their treatment, they usually have ________ relapses/rehospitalizations.
Fewer (or less)
What is a side effect?
Typically an undesirable effect of a medication
Who is the expert about medication and has experience in helping others find effective medications?
Doctor or prescriber
True/False: It can be difficult to remember to take your medications everyday at the same time.
True
Name one of the two important ways medication has been found to be helpful.
(1) Reducing symptoms
(2) Reduce the likelihood of relapses
When you have side effects, you should contact your __________.
Doctor/prescriber
Who is the expert on the way a medication makes you feel?
YOU!
What is one strategy/creative way to remember to take your medication?
- Use a calendar
- Make notes to yourself
- Set an alarm in your cell phone
- Ask someone to help you
- Keep the pill bottle next to an item that is used daily
Name a medication category we talked about in class. (HINT: There are 4 that we talked about)
1. Antidepressants
2. Mood stabilizers
3. Antipsychotic medications
4. Antianxiety and sedative medications
Name one side effect that we talked about in class.
1. Drowsiness
2. Increased appetite/weight gain
3. Extreme restlessness
4. Muscle stiffness
5. Dizziness
6. Blurry vision
7. Sensitivity to the sun
8. Shakiness or tremors
9. Dry mouth
10. Constipation
11. Sexual side effects
True/False: The best way to make a decision about medication is to work in an active partnership with your doctor or other prescriber.
True
Working to include a particular behavior into one's daily routine is called "_________ __________."
Behavioral tailoring
Which medication category is used to reduce the symptoms of psychosis, such as:
- Hallucinations
- Delusions
- Disorganized thinking, speech, or behavior
- Problems thinking clearly
- Disorganized or catatonic behavior
Antipsychotic medications
Name a side effect we talked about in class and one strategy for coping with it.
Correct!
List one pro of taking medication
You are correct!
Have you ever used a strategy to remind yourself to take your medication? If so, what is it?
If you haven't, which strategy do you think would give you the best results?
Awesome!
Name one of the medications you are currently taking?
(5 BONUS POINTS if you can tell me what category your medication falls into!)
Of course you're right, you know best!
Which side effect should be addressed with medications and NOT tolerated?
Muscle stiffness
List one pro and one con of taking medication
(HINT: We wrote a list together in class on the board)
You are correct!
Medications for mental health disorders usually take time to work. It may take ________ or _________ before you notice a difference in the way you feel.
Days or weeks