Statistics show that a whopping 66% of American adults use prescription drugs. Some only need prescriptions for a short time, but so many more are dealing with long-term issues.
What’s more, about 31% of American adults report experiencing depression and anxiety. In other words, 2 out of 3 adults are taking prescriptions, and 1 out of 3 are struggling with their mental health.
Is there a link between the two?
You may feel surprised to uncover the truth. Read on to discover details about the link between prescriptions and mental health. We’ll also inform you on what to do if you think your medication is impacting your mental state.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
Would you recognize the signs and symptoms of depression or anxiety? Here are a few things to watch for:
- Feeling restless and worried
- Sleeping too much or not enough
- Difficulty focusing
- Mood swings and irritability
- Muscle aches and tension
- Increased headaches
- Lack of interest in things you used to love
- Feeling tense
- Changes in appetite
- Low energy
- Suicidal thoughts
With the pandemic looming, stress and anxiety have become the new normal. It’s not normal, though, for these feelings to start to impact your day-to-day life. You shouldn’t be basing your decisions and choices on your anxiety or depression.
If you are, then that’s a cause for concern. You need to figure out what’s causing you to have these negative feelings.
Is There a Link Between Prescription Medication and Depression or Anxiety?
If you’re currently taking prescriptions, then you may wonder if they’re contributing. Many modern-day medications have negative side effects that can make anxiety and depression worse.
Here are some of the worst offenders:
- Beta-blockers
- PPIs and H2 Blockers
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs
- Benzodiazepines
- Corticosteroids
- Stimulants
- Anticonvulsants
- Thyroid medications
- Antibiotics
- Acne medications
Medications can cause symptoms of anxiety or depression. If you’re already predisposed to those, then they can make your symptoms worse.
This link isn’t speculation, either. It’s measurable and reproducible in scientific studies.
Other Causes of Depression and Anxiety to Consider
Anxiety and depression are complex conditions. Before you assume that your medicine is the main cause, you should look at other common culprits.
Here are a few of the most common causes of depression and anxiety:
- Experiencing traumatic events in the past
- Prior or ongoing abuse
- The loss of a loved one
- Major life changes
- Significant stress
- Certain medical conditions
- Drug or alcohol use
- Chronic pain
- Social isolation
Consider these causes and rule them out before assuming your medication is the issue.
Are Your Medications Worth it?
If you’re currently taking medication without a prescription, then that’s considered drug abuse. Your body is not benefiting from the medication.
While you may be using it to cope with other issues, you’re creating new ones, too. There are better options for you that won’t cause more problems than they’re worth.
If that’s the case, then the medications aren’t worth it.
What if your doctor prescribed the medicine for you for a different condition, though? If that’s the case, then you need to do some research and have a few talks with your doctor. We’ll go over a few of your options below.
How to Manage Prescription Medication and Anxiety
If you and your doctor agree that you need the medication, then consider alternatives. Often, generic or other versions of medication can have the same benefits. They often have different side effects.
So, you could reduce your anxiety or depression by swapping medications.
What if no alternatives are available? If that’s the case, then you’ll need to learn to manage your anxiety and depression. Certain therapies that teach coping mechanisms can help.
Should You Consider Rehab Centers in San Diego?
When you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s natural to think you have to push through. Did you know that forcing yourself to avoid your feelings could actually make it worse?
Rather than balancing your medication, mental health, and work, why not take a break? You should consider visiting an accommodating facility where you can focus on yourself.
If you’re abusing prescriptions without a doctor’s note, then rehab is a great choice. It will help you get clean.
Look for a place that offers treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy. Take your time in the facility to learn new coping mechanisms. If you’re successful, then you’ll learn new tools and skills to improve your life!
How to Sort Through San Diego Rehab Centers
That sounds great on the surface, but how do you find the right facility? The right rehab for you will offer the treatment you need.
It will also be affordable, too, though. That means you need to verify your insurance works with the rehab and that the cost works for your budget.
Next, read through online reviews. While some people get put into rehab unwillingly, they should still feel respected.
Make sure the facility has positive reviews. Be sure they treat patients with care, and verify that they’ve helped people in need.
Finally, reach out to the facility and talk with a representative. Bring up your questions and concerns. Talk about your problems, and make sure that you feel comfortable with the rehab.
Are You Ready to Tackle Your Depression and Anxiety in 2022?
Depression and anxiety are on the rise in 2022. From the pandemic to daily stressors, there are a lot of reasons for this upward trend.
One thing you may not have considered before, though, is your prescription medication! There’s a strange link between prescriptions and mental health issues. Now that you know the truth, you can make better decisions moving forward.
Are you considering getting expert help with your depression or anxiety? If so, then our top-notch facility might provide the safe space you need to heal. Note that we don’t accept Medi-Cal at this time, but we do accept self-pay options.
Reach out for help now, and we’ll work together to help you go from coping to thriving