Myths and Misconceptions About Mental Health Medications
When it comes to psychiatric medication, there’s a lot of noise out there. People have strong opinions. Providers have different approaches. Friends, family, and social media may offer well-meaning advice that leaves you feeling more confused than informed.
At Nashville Therapy Group, we believe in clear, honest conversations about what medication can and cannot do. We also believe that your decisions about treatment should be based on facts, not fear.
So let’s talk through some of the most common myths about mental health medication—and what’s actually true.
Myth 1: “Medication is a last resort.”
This idea keeps a lot of people from getting help early on. You don’t have to be in crisis or at your breaking point to consider medication. For many people, it’s one tool among many that helps improve quality of life, reduce symptoms, and create a sense of stability.
Waiting until things are unbearable is not a requirement. You’re allowed to get support before it gets that bad.
Myth 2: “Medication changes your personality.”
Medication is not supposed to make you feel like someone else. If it does, that’s usually a sign something needs adjusting. The right medication should help reduce distressing symptoms and make space for you to feel more like yourself—not less.
You’re not giving up your identity. You’re getting support so you can feel more grounded and connected to who you already are.
Myth 3: “Taking medication means you’re weak.”
This one comes up a lot, especially for high-functioning people who are used to holding it all together. But taking medication has nothing to do with strength or weakness. It’s about giving your brain the support it needs so you can show up more fully in your life and in your relationships.
There’s no shame in using every tool available to feel better.
Myth 4: “You’ll have to be on it forever.”
Some people take psychiatric medication long term. Others use it for a season. The timeline is different for everyone. What matters most is what your body and mind need—not what someone else’s experience looked like.
If you ever decide to come off medication, that process should be gradual, informed, and supported by your prescriber and therapist. But you are not locked into anything permanently.
Myth 5: “You can’t really heal if you’re taking medication.”
This one is especially harmful. Medication does not get in the way of healing. In many cases, it makes healing more possible. If you’re so anxious that you can’t sleep or so depressed that you can’t engage in therapy, medication can give you the stability needed to actually do the deeper work.
It’s not either-or. Medication and therapy often work best together.
Therapy Helps You Make Sense of It All
If you’re overwhelmed by your options, unsure about what’s true, or navigating a difficult experience with medication, therapy can help you sort through it. We don’t prescribe quick fixes or one-size-fits-all answers. We listen, we ask good questions, and we help you figure out what makes the most sense for your unique situation.
At Nashville Therapy Group, our medication management services are integrated into a broader approach to care. That means your therapist and prescriber can work together to support you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms.
We Are Here For You
Dr. Megan Galaske
Integrative Physician
Finding the right mental health treatment can be a complex and personal process. For some, that includes medication, and it’s important to work with someone who listens closely, explains clearly, and respects your goals. Our Medication Management program offers thoughtful, collaborative support from an integrative physician who works in partnership with your therapist and other providers. Whether you’re starting medication for the first time or re-evaluating an existing plan, we’re here to help you make informed, empowered decisions about your care.
When you’re ready, reach out to us. We’d be honored to support you.
