General care that needs to be taken while on psychiatric medication

• Take your medication regularly and try and not miss a dose. If you miss a dose then take the next dose as early as possible. If you are on Lithium or Clozapine then please consult your psychiatrist.
• Do not stop taking a medication till you consult with your psychiatrist.
• Be careful in the initial days especially if you drive as the medications might make you drowsy/sleepy but the body will adapt and adjust quite soon.
• Take adequate water and diet
• If you face any unusual problems (like movement problems or rash) while on medications do consult a psychiatrist they may be side effects of medication.
• Try and maintain your weight by regulating your food intake and exercise as quite a few medications can increase your appetite.
• For mood disorders or schizophrenia the medication will have to be taken in terms of years rather than months.
• If you are on Lithium then you will have to be extra careful and drink extra water especially during summers.
• If you are planning to become pregnant then do inform the psychiatrist of the same who will assess the risk the medication poses to the future child.
• Please feel free in discussing with your psychiatrist regarding any sexual problems (like anorgasmia, decreased desire) you might have noticed after starting on psychiatric medication.

Pregnancy, Lactation and medicines

If you are planning to become pregnant or there is a chance that you might become pregnant soon do let your psychiatrist know especially if you are on mood stabilizers or antiepileptics.

Quiet a few of the medicines are safe in medication but a few like Lithium, Valproate need extra care if you are pregnant…….so discuss in detail regarding the complications before you start on them.

It is advisable to consult a psychiatrist regarding medications specifically if you are breast feeding.

Carer and Patient

Every individual needs their own space and times to function at their potential hence do take the time to spend every now and then by yourself without the added responsibility of caring for your loved ones. You should plan for such breaks so that you do not have a burn out and enable yourself to care appropriately