Despite the progress in our understanding of the biology of the brain, stigma and misconceptions persist around the topic of mental illness. Perhaps the most misunderstood of mental illnesses are conditions involving psychosis — and often the drugs that treat them. Keep reading as we debunk common myths about antipsychotics, promote understanding, and highlight the importance of mental health rehabs and recovery.
3 Most Common Antipsychotic Myths
Antipsychotic medications play a crucial role in managing severe mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and psychosis. Despite their effectiveness, these medications are often surrounded by misconceptions and stigma, which can deter individuals from seeking treatment.
Myth #1: You can’t stop taking antipsychotics once you start
One common myth is that antipsychotics are a prescription drug you can never stop taking. Some have speculated that this is due to antipsychotics being addictive, which is incorrect. Antipsychotics do not generate euphoric feelings or result in cravings which other prescriptions can and are generally considered safe and not addictive. However, it is possible for some people to develop a dependency on their antipsychotic drugs. As a result, abruptly quitting this medication can cause a person to experience withdrawal symptoms which, understandably, can make it seem like antipsychotics result in addiction.
Another source of this myth is because it’s commonly believed that antipsychotics are a lifelong medication that once taken must be continued. This too, is false. This misconception is likely derived from the tendency for antipsychotic drugs to be used long term, and that it is also common for individuals with serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia to use antipsychotics for life. However, these prescription drugs are like any other medication: a dose may be reduced or the drug eliminated entirely if it’s not producing the desired results.
It can take months, or even years, to get a low enough dose to come off psychotics. Due to the risk of adverse withdrawal effects like tremors and psychotic episodes, it is strongly advised not to stop suddenly and to talk with your doctor before making any changes.
Myth #2: Taking antipsychotics will change your personality
Once common fear is that antipsychotics will alter one’s personality, making them feel numb or lethargic. What might appear as a change in disposition or temperament is actually the result of changes in neurotransmitters due to the nature of how antipsychotics work. Antipsychotics rebalance neurotransmitters in the brain, blocking receptors for some while activating receptors for others in specific regions in the brain, in order to reduce psychotic symptoms like hallucination and delusions.
Another reason behind this myth may be that antipsychotics can sometimes cause mood swings and behavioral changes as side effects of the medication. While side effects can occur, they are typically manageable with proper medical guidance. Antipsychotics are designed to alleviate symptoms, not suppress individuality.
That said, it’s not uncommon for patients to say that they feel more like themselves after lowering their dosage. If you are concerned that your antipsychotic medication is making you less “you,” talk to your doctor to discuss options for finding the optimal dosage.
Myth #3: Antipsychotics are only for schizophrenia
One of the most pervasive myths is that antipsychotics are exclusively prescribed for individuals with schizophrenia or other extreme mental health conditions. In reality, these medications are used to treat a range of symptoms aside from psychosis, such as mood stabilization and anxiety management.
For this reason, it’s fairly common for antipsychotics to be used off-label to treat other conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD and ADHD, to name a few. Antipsychotic drugs are extremely versatile.
Why understanding antipsychotic drugs matters
Understanding antipsychotic drugs — what they are, and what they aren’t — is vital to overcoming the stigma and fear that, unfortunately, some still have towards this type of medication or those who use them. These types of drugs play an important role in many mental health long-term treatment plans that are necessary to help people maintain stability and live normal, fulfilling lives.
By increasing awareness and opening a dialogue on this can encourage individuals to seek help. If you or someone you know is struggling with debilitating mental health symptoms, a mental health rehab may be a helpful solution.
Mental health rehabs provide comprehensive care, combining medication, therapy, and support to address diverse needs. If you or someone you know is considering antipsychotic treatment, consult a mental healthcare professional to explore options and develop a personalized plan. Remember, recovery is a journey, and every step forward is a step toward healing.