Posted by JenStar on October 2, 2005, at 22:07:56
In reply to Professor at Med School Says Wean off All Meds, posted by Phillipa on October 2, 2005, at 19:06:31
hi Phillipa,
I both agree and disagree with him. I think SOME things are "mind over matter" -- things like sticking to a diet or exercise regimen, studying, beating a bad habit like thumb-sucking or hair-twisting, or cursing. Those things are fixable by oneself (usually). I even think that maybe some 'borderline' mental disorders can be cured by positive thinking/etc. alone -- maybe very mild depression, mild anxiety, mild social phobias.But I also think there are larger problems that are NOT fixable without some help. People who suffer from severe depression, anxiety or phobias need real help to improve. And so far it seems that the meds DO help...unless we're all struck with a collective case of "the emperor has no clothes" syndrome!
I believe that meds are overprescribed, and maybe people DO experience a placebo effect. But so far, the meds seem to help!
There are professionals (mostly those who have never suffered a severe or debilitating mental disorder, I presume) who think that people can/should cure themselves of all mental struggles. Maybe the med school wanted someone like him because they worry about meds being overprescribed, and wanted someone who could focus on a different, holistic, therapy-related approach to problem solving. It's hard to say!
If you trust this guy, and have a relationship with him, could you set up an informal appointment just to talk with him? Could you say, "You know, I was really upset the other day when you told me XYZ. The truth is I've been getting better on the meds, and I want to give them a chance. I really felt like I was headed for confusion or a setback when you said XYZ to me. Can we meet so I can learn more about your philosophy and why you said that to me? I think it's only fair that you owe me some time. It's difficult to hear such a quick, flip, 5-minute assessment of my condition and NOT be upset. I kind of feel that you "owe" me a bit more time to explain!"
If you don't feel like doing that, remember that he's only ONE person and one opinion. Even experts disagree. Although he's the director of that school, he doesn't know you or your situation intimately. It's possible he'd even change his mind if he knew it better!
I'd say keep doing what you're doing -- give it a fair try. If it doesn't work, then you can move on. But don't feel swayed by his "expertise" to drop a plan that you've committed to and has been suggested by someone you trust!
good luck! :)
JenStar
poster:JenStar
thread:562069
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050927/msgs/562162.html