Post 7 in the Series: Safer Psychiatry
By Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, Consultant Psychiatrist

🧩 “Why does he need this medicine?”

💬 “Isn’t this addictive?”

💭 “Shouldn’t we try therapy first?”

These are real, common, and important questions from families of patients receiving psychiatric care.
And they should never be brushed aside.

This post is a guide for caregivers—spouses, siblings, parents, adult children—who want to understand:

• Why certain medications are used

• What the risks and benefits are

• How to support a loved one’s treatment journey

• And when to speak up (and when to trust the process)

🧠 First: Understanding Why Medications Are Prescribed

Psychiatric medications are not “mind-control pills.”
They are carefully chosen to:

• Stabilize symptoms (mood, anxiety, focus, psychosis)

• Make therapy more effective

• Reduce suffering and restore function

The goal is always:

“To help your loved one feel more like themselves again.”

💊 Types of Medications You Might Hear About

📌 Some of these are Schedule X drugs and need extra care, but most are not.

❓ What Families Often Worry About (With Reassurance)

“Isn’t this medicine addictive?”

Only certain drugs like benzodiazepines or stimulants carry that risk—and even then, only when misused or used for too long without review. A good psychiatrist will always have an exit plan in place.

“Can this be stopped later?”

Yes. Most psychiatric medications are not lifelong.
They are used for specific phases—like treating an episode or stabilizing a transition—and then reviewed for tapering.

“Will this change their personality?”

No. Medications help restore clarity, calmness, and energy—not erase individuality. If your loved one seems dull or robotic, the dose or drug might need a change.

👨‍👩‍👦‍👦 How You Can Support the Process

• Accompany them to important appointments when possible

• Note down side effects or progress to share with the doctor

• Encourage therapy, routines, and self-care alongside medication

• Stay calm during setbacks—healing is never linear

• Trust your instinct but also the expertise of your psychiatrist

👨‍⚕️ How I Work With Families

As a Consultant Psychiatrist at Apollo Clinics (Velachery & Tambaram, Chennai), I regularly involve families in care decisions. You can expect:

• Clear explanations of medication plans

• Time for your questions and concerns

• Discussion on safety, alternatives, and follow-up

• Support in tapering or switching when needed

📞 Book appointments at 8595155808
🌐 Online consults available across India

🧾 Summary

You don’t have to be a doctor to understand psychiatric treatment—you just have to be informed, open, and supportive.

Ask questions.
Be involved.
And above all, remember:

“You are not just a bystander. You’re part of the healing team.”