Take Your Mental Health Seriously

Every year, between 13 and 14 million people are diagnosed with clinical depression or anxiety.

According to Health Canada and Statistics Canada, approximately 8% of Canadians will experience or are currently experiencing symptoms of major depression and anxiety - a great deal of which go untreated. However, studies have shown that the number of people who remain untreated is not a matter of oversight, but rather a matter of choice.

The decision to start taking medication for a mood disorder is a huge one.  How will it make me feel? Will I experience side effects? Can I afford it? Should I be ashamed?

These questions, and many others, arise when a diagnosis is made. Are meds right for you? Here are a few things to consider:

1. No One Needs To Know
Many women worry about the stigma that comes with the prescription. Fear that one might be labeled ‘crazy’ or ‘unbalanced’ is common among women who have been diagnosed with a form of depression or anxiety. The truth is that these drugs are for you, and no one else. Another person’s opinion should not weigh on your choice to start taking the pills. Members of the medical profession, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, even medical receptionists, adhere to strict codes of confidentiality. Thus meaning that no one needs to know but you.

2. Side Effects Do Not Always Occur
Although television commercials often say, in a low, speedy voice, that many drugs may induce a number of undesirable side effects, the truth is that many of them are highly uncommon. The only way to know whether or not these medications will cause adverse reactions, such as losing sexual appetite, increasing actual appetite, loss of sleep, or increased anxiety (just to name a few), is if you try them for yourself.

3. It Can’t Get Much Worse Than It Already Is
This may seem like a bleak thought, however those who are truly suffering from some form of depression or anxiety can attest. Hopelessness, sleeplessness, spontaneous bouts of tears or worry and suicidal thoughts are not at all uncommon - and not at all easy to cope with. No one wants to live like that. If your doctor recognizes your struggle, and feels that a prescription may be in order, it is certainly worth considering. No one should have to live in a constant state of panic or sadness.

If you feel that you, or someone you love, may be suffering from depression or anxiety, please visit your doctor to discuss the best method of treatment for you.

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Sandra (6) Paque
		About the author:
		I am an avid aerobiciser, thigh masterer, kegel clentcher and core ball balancer. I am just like you: a curious and (mostly) motivated woman who thinks she can (and will!) lose a few before my next family wedding or beach party. I am your sister, your mother, your aunt and your daughter. I will scour the fitness and diet landscape (so you don't have to) and keep you up to date on the latest and greatest bum and thigh disappearing potions. I hope you find my articles insightful and more than anything, motivating! NOW DROP AND GIVE ME TEN!!
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