Hello, New Drug. ("Life, Medicated." Part 13)

It's been nearly three months since my psychiatrist recommended adding a new medication for my depression, and the results have been good.

I swear, I feel like I've been very lucky with meds. Only once has a medication not worked for me, and my doctor took me off that right away. But other than that, we've been hitting the nail right on the head with what I need.

So right now, I take three medications. I take Abilify for anxiety, Wellbutrin for depression, and Temazepam for my insomnia. The dosages are small for each, but they seem to be enough to make a difference for me.

Specifically, what is each drug doing for me? The Abilify helps calm me down. Without it, my mind races a mile a minute and I can never relax. The Wellbutrin keeps me from getting too sedentary and stationary. It allows me to feel energized and able (and willing) to take on each day. And the Temazepam helps me to stay asleep and get a full eight hours. So far, so good.

I'm not saying that medication is a cure-all for everyone. That is a decision best made by each person in consultation with their medical professionals. For me, though, this combination seems to be doing the trick.

So what's missing? Honestly, I have not been scheduling therapy appointments. I know that talking things out with a licensed therapist is good for me, but something keeps holding me back. I think I feel almost like, "what am I going to hear that I don't already know?"

But that's just a cop-out. Each time I see my therapist, I walk away with a fresh insight into something that has been challenging me. I know going is a good thing, so I am going to make those sessions a priority and get in for them.

What I want people to know most is that I am doing okay right now. I know low moments, and I have weathered many of those. But right now, I'm feeling more balanced and in control of my emotions and thoughts. After so much time moping about or anxious about everything, this is a good place to be.

If you are feeling anxious or depressed, there's help available for you. Learn more about both here. Reach out to your friends, your family, or medical professionals. You are not alone and you are not the only one struggling.

You matter.
You are loved.
And we need you to stay.