psychopharm discussion 1

.docx

School

Walden University *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

6743

Subject

Medicine

Date

Jan 9, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by marreroy

Medications for Treating Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders Medication for treating mental health and substance use disorders is a crucial part of mental health because while some may need counseling, others need extra support. I do not like taking medication because I believe there are healthier approaches to medicine that aren't a pill. Different kinds of herbs can cure and treat all types of health issues. However, there is no shame in taking medication to help with your mental health journey or substance abuse disorder. Medication is just one of the tools to help manage their symptoms, and it plays a crucial role in treating mental disorders and conditions. With every medication, there are side effects, and one must be cautious; providers are careful when prescribing medication to patients because of the adverse effects, which is why it should be considered before suggesting it. Although medication does not cure mental illnesses, it can help improve symptoms and assist other treatments. Medication for substance abuse disorders can reduce symptoms, minimize cravings, and help maintain abstinence. Lastly, for the medication to work effectively, the patient must take it as instructed by their health professional. Pros and Cons of Using Medication as part of treatment Taking medication should always be taken with precaution because there can always be side effects; there are both pros and cons. Medication as part of treatment can enormously benefit individual patients and the public's health (Sinacola et al., 2020). One pro of medication is that it goes through approval by the sanctioning body before being accepted as a means of treatment; therefore, drug therapy ensures evidence-based therapy (Sinacola et al., 2020). However, all medicines carry risks, and side effects are always an area of concern for patients and clinicians. Side effects might add to the overall stress of managing a patient's condition (Sinacola et al., 2020). A stigma is associated with mental health and substance use disorders because some believe that medication can lead to dependency, which implies becoming addicted to the drug. Perspective from a Clinical Mental Health Counselor In a setting where a youth or K-12 student comes into the office and informs me that they are currently on Ritalin for ADHD, and they or their parents have some concerns, I would acknowledge their concerns and validate their feelings. Then, I would explore why they are seeking counseling now, and I would develop a treatment plan with them that included goals and objectives for counseling. I would empower them to have their needs met by giving them access to resources and referrals. And throughout the counseling process, I will provide the utmost support. Perspective from a School Counselor In a setting where a youth or K-12 student comes into the office and informs me that they are currently on Ritalin for ADHD, and they or their parents have some concerns, I would try to gain an understanding of the concerns they are expressing. We would develop a plan to address all the concerns and then meet with the physician who prescribed the medication. The meeting with the physician will help develop a strategy to address the family's concerns. I would also work with

the student and their families to develop coping strategies and problem-solving techniques to manage their concerns. My goal as a counselor is to empower my students and their families so they do not feel alone in this process and can make informed decisions about the Ritalin medication. Perspective from a Dually Licensed Counselor As a dually licensed counselor, it is essential to understand that each license has its scope of practice. In a setting where a youth or K-12 student comes into the office and informs me that they are currently on Ritalin for ADHD, and they or their parents have some concerns, I would

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