Healing Takes Time: The Psychiatry Pillar and the Power of Patience
When I first started treatment for bipolar disorder, I had no idea how long the road would be. It took 13 different medications to finally land on the three that actually help me. Along the way, I encountered some bizarre and unsettling side effects—stoplights flashing like strobe lights, monsters jumping out of bushes, even voices calling me to become a warlock. Others were less surreal but still disruptive: weight gain, constant fatigue, sleeping 16 hours a day. The truth is, finding the right treatment takes time, and side effects are very real. But they’re not something to fear—just something to be aware of.
Some medications are a lifelong part of managing my bipolar disorder, but I’ve learned that dosages might need fine-tuning. In the fall, when the days get shorter and darker, my anxiety and depression tend to worsen, so my psychiatrist might temporarily increase my Prozac. My Klonopin dose has needed occasional adjustments—usually during periods of high stress, overfunctioning, or when I’ve pushed through without enough rest. I’ve come to see medication adjustments not as setbacks, but as a form of self-care. There are times when my body and brain need more support—during stressful seasons or when I’ve been overdoing it without enough rest. And there are also times when, with consistent self-care, those dosages can be reduced. Over time, I’ve learned that things like warm showers, music, art, aromatherapy, and going to the gym aren’t just nice extras—they actually help shift brain chemistry and thought patterns.
Before I was properly diagnosed with bipolar disorder, my family doctor prescribed me medications for high blood pressure and irritable bowel syndrome. At the time, it made sense because those were good for the symptoms I was presenting with, but what I was actually dealing with was a chemical imbalance in the brain. My general practitioner couldn’t help, and I was admitted to an inpatient mental health hospital unit after a suicide attempt. It was at this point that I began seeing a psychiatrist. The psychiatrist’s expertise in subtle dosage changes, medication interactions, and long-term management made all the difference for me. General practitioners have their role, but I’ve learned that complex mental health conditions like mine often require specialized care. If you have a job but need time to care for your own or a loved one’s mental health, FMLA offers both paid and unpaid options—something I’ve personally used to prioritize my emotional well-being. I’ve found that support is out there, and it’s okay to lean on it. You don’t have to face it alone.
At the beginning of my mental health struggle, particularly toward the end of my four years in college, I turned to illegal drugs as a crutch to cope before I started getting treatment. The one time I went off my medication, I again relied on self-medication through illegal drugs to manage my symptoms. It was a dangerous cycle—not only for my health, but for my life overall. Like many people with untreated mental illness, I found myself facing legal troubles, which added even more stress and stigma to an already difficult situation. Looking at the big picture now, I can say without hesitation: the turbulence of medication side effects and the trial-and-error process of finding the right treatment is absolutely worth it.
Yes, psychiatric medications can have side effects, but in my experience, they showed up quickly and were easy to identify, which made it easier to adjust my treatment plan. That’s not always true for everyone, but being open and proactive with my care team made a huge difference. Compared to the chaos of living unmedicated—or worse, navigating the fallout of street drug use and legal turmoil—the process of getting stable was the far better path. If you’re on a mental health journey, be patient because it takes time and there’s no quick fix. Be honest with yourself and your support team about how you’re feeling; your input is critical to finding the right treatment. Don’t hesitate to speak up about side effects or concerns. Lean on your support system, whether it’s a friend, partner, or coworker, having people walk beside you matters. And if you’re supporting a loved one, it’s okay to seek help for yourself too. Therapy, support groups, or education can equip you to be there without burning out.
I’m hopeful about the growing recognition of mental health as a national priority. In the United States, I’ve seen leaders across political lines support legislation, funding, and policies to improve access to care, which encourages me. Even more uplifting is how the conversation has shifted. I notice people speaking openly about mental health in ways that felt impossible years ago, and I find strength in sharing my own story, knowing it’s no longer a source of shame. These Pillar Posts are a small window into my journey—what I’ve lived, learned, and gained along the way. I share it because mental health struggles can feel isolating, and I hope my story helps someone feel less alone. While treatment should always be guided by professionals, healing isn’t solitary. Medication is one piece of the puzzle, but I rely on four pillars: psychiatry, therapy, family, and my church community. Together, they’ve helped me build a stronger foundation. With the right tools and support, medication may sometimes be reduced as other pillars strengthen—but remember, it requires patience.
Click here if you would like to read more about my story, From Chaos to Strength: My Bipolar Journey to Healing and Redemption.
