Why Some People Need Medication to Feel Normal

Some people need medication to feel okay. It's not a choice. It's like needing glasses to see clearly. For some, antidepressants are a lifeline. They help them feel less sad and more in control. Without them, life can be really hard. Some people think medication is a sign of weakness. They believe that talking about problems or exercising is enough. But that's not true for everyone. Some people's brains just work differently. Medication can help them function better. There are people who make fun of others for taking medication. They say things like, "You're just lazy" or "You're addicted. " But that's not fair. Medication can be a tool for healing. It's not a moral failing. Some people think that only "natural" treatments are good. But natural doesn't always mean better. For example, some women stop taking birth control because they think it's "unnatural. " But birth control can help women control their bodies and lives. Medication shaming is especially bad when it comes to addiction. Some people think that taking medication for addiction is cheating. But it's not. It's a way to stay alive and healthy. People who take medication for addiction are not weak. They are strong for seeking help. The problem is that people mix up addiction and dependence. Addiction is when someone can't stop using drugs even if it hurts them. Dependence is when someone needs a drug to function. They are not the same thing. People who depend on medication are not addicts. It's important to accept that everyone's health journey is different. Some people need medication. Some people don't. That's okay. What's not okay is shaming people for needing help.