I have meds, but I don’t want to take them or forget about them. What should I do?

Dear Anonymous, 

I get that taking medication is annoying, but it’s important. It’s especially important if it’s for mental health. Personally, I take anti-depressants so I completely understand not wanting to take them or at the very least forgetting. My advice is to leave them next to something you never forget either in the morning or at night or both. For me, my meds are always right next to my deodorant in my bathroom, so in the morning I see them when I go to put it on. For you, it could be totally different. I also have alarms set on my phone for specific times on repeat daily, which serve as an extra reminder. If you’re like me, you’re probably the type of person who doesn’t do something unless someone else tells you to, so you could always ask a friend or loved one if they could remind you, but that leaves you to rely on them which could create pressure for them. On the other hand, they would probably be worried about you if they knew you missed your meds, I know I am when my friends do. For the times you just simply “don’t feel like it”, I feel you. Sometimes it’s so easy to just not want to get better or it’s as if you deserve to feel this way. Maybe your meds have worse side effects than the actual condition. I know many people whose medication just makes them feel empty and apathetic, which shouldn’t be happening. You shouldn’t trade depression for a hollow shell. I know it’s hard to admit to people that you miss doses on purpose, but it really does help. There is always someone there for you willing to listen. You don’t need a reason for not wanting to take them; I sure don’t. If anyone ever responds with something along the lines of “it must not be that serious” or “are you really even sick?”, ignore it. You are valid. Your actions are valid. Just because you’re not taking your medication doesn’t mean it’s unnecessary or even unwanted. Sometimes people don’t want to get better, and that’s okay. What’s not okay is keeping it a secret. If you need those meds, you need them. End of story. Ask others for help because deep down you know you need it even if you don’t want it, so get better because you deserve it.

Sincerely, 

A Student

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