Content in partnership with KCBS

Overmedication

02.21.16
Overmedication

Medication

I was 14 years old when I was first prescribed antidepressants. At the time, I thought it would be a shortcut to happiness — until I experienced the side effects.

For many of my early teenage years, I struggled with depression and anxiety. I felt like I didn’t belong anywhere, and when I met someone new, I assumed they only saw my faults.

I became desperate for something to bring me out of the fog. So when my doctor first suggested taking antidepressants, I was excited. And they helped a bit. But after several months, I started getting tremors and nausea. If I happened to miss a dose, I was ambushed by physical discomfort.

Over the next few years I tried many different prescriptions, but I wasn’t happy with any of them. I found myself valuing my therapy sessions more. They taught me how stay in control when I was feeling upset. The progress was slow, but the lessons I learned in therapy felt more permanent than a pill.

Depression is different for everyone. But in my experience, meds don’t have to be the first option for kids who are still developing their identities.

Support the Next Generation of Content Creators
Invest in the diverse voices that will shape and lead the future of journalism and art.
Donate Now
Support the Next Generation of Content Creators
Invest in the diverse voices that will shape and lead the future of journalism and art.
Donate Now