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If You Feel Alone Taking Mental Health Medication, This Hashtag Is for You

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Taking medication for your mental health can be an isolating experience. Even though one in six Americans takes a psychiatric medication, it’s not something many people are forthcoming about. Of course, your health and how you manage it is your own business — but there’s a difference between being a private person and hiding medication out of shame.

If you take psychiatric medication, there’s nothing to be ashamed about. In fact, you’re in good company.

Holly Brockwell, founder of Gadgette, an inclusive “geek culture” blog, started the hashtag #MedsWorkedForMe after tweeting about a study that found antidepressants work better than placebos, and do help some recover from depression.

“Damn right they work,” she said. “Took until the third try to find one that works for me, but man was it worth it. Never be afraid to ask for help, that’s why it’s there.”

After her followers started sharing their own medication stories, Brockwell launched #MedsWorkedForMe to continue the conversation.

“I think seeing people you look up to publicly admitting to their depression and anxiety helps you realise you’re not alone and sharing real advice on what works for them — drugs, mental exercises or whatever — is probably one of the most powerful things someone can do,” one Twitter user said in response to the hashtag.

Of course, psychiatric medication isn’t for everyone. Though it’s important we respect the different ways people choose to manage their mental health. If you’ve found psychiatric medication helps you, you’re not alone.

Check out some of the other responses from #MedsWorkedForMe below.

Editor’s note: Please see a doctor before starting or stopping a medication.

Getty image via 4421010037

Originally published: February 26, 2018
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