Medication Side Effects: “Is this a deal breaker for you?
- Jamie Sorenson
- Nov 28
- 2 min read
One of my favorite questions to ask patients when discussing medication side effects is, ”is this a deal breaker for you?" This question is particularly helpful because it recognizes that not everyone will perceive side effects in the same manner. The subjective nature of side effects can vary greatly from person to person, influenced by individual experiences, coping mechanisms, and personal thresholds for discomfort. For instance, some individuals may perceive a reduction in anxiety as a significant relief, allowing them to engage more fully in their daily lives and enjoy a calmer state of being. In contrast, others might find that same reduction in anxiety to be quite stressful, as it can strip away the motivating force that anxiety sometimes provides. I have encountered numerous patients who return to my office expressing a desire to lower their medication dosage. Their rationale often revolves around the need to feel some level of anxiety (especially musicians), which they associate with heightened motivation and productivity. These patients frequently articulate concerns about their performance at work or in school, fearing that a complete absence of anxiety might lead to complacency or a lack of drive. It is crucial to understand that for some, anxiety can serve as a double-edged sword; it can be both a source of distress and a catalyst for achievement. In these instances, I fully support my patients' wishes to adjust their medication regimens. It is essential to foster an open dialogue about how they perceive their mental health and the role that medication plays in it. By modifying the medication, we can strike a balance that allows them to maintain their motivation while also managing their anxiety in a way that feels more comfortable and productive for them. This collaborative approach not only empowers patients but also reinforces the importance of personalized care in the field of psychiatry, where individual differences must be taken into account to achieve the best outcomes.
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