I never imagined I’d have something in common with Kanye West—but I do. Like the rapper, I once made the decision to stop taking my psychiatric medications. I flushed the pills down the toilet, convinced that the long-term side effects would do me more harm than good. In less than 32 hours, I was shaking, sweating, slurring my words, and lashing out at anyone who dared speak to me. Desperate to feel better, I reached out to several friends—begging— for their anxiety meds, knowing they were not the same as mine. But, at that moment, I was desperate for relief.
I know I am not alone. According to experts, people stop taking their medications for many reasons—forgetfulness, feeling “better,” or believing the medications aren’t working. My reason? Fear. After reading about the potential long-term side effects of my medication—including cardiovascular problems, tremors, and muscle weakness—I panicked. What I did not consider was the need to taper off the drug slowly, under medical supervision. Instead, I went cold turkey and paid the price with severe withdrawal symptoms.
A 2023 U.S. and European survey found that roughly 43% in the U.S. and 46% in Europe of patients with depression reported non‑adherence to their antidepressant regimen. They missed doses or stopped altogether.
Talyah Miron-Shatz, PhD, CEO of CureMyWay, explains that many patients view their psychiatric medication as a symbol of weakness or brokenness. Miron-Shatz encourages altering this mindset. Instead of thinking, “I take Abilify and Effexor because I’m damaged,” she recommends saying, “I take Abilify and Effexor because I take care of what needs to be done.” That small shift in thinking can make a huge difference.
Abruptly stopping or altering a prescribed dosage isn’t just risky—it can be dangerous. It can worsen symptoms, increase the risk of hospitalization, and in some cases, lead to suicidal thoughts. That’s why medication decisions should always be made in partnership with a qualified healthcare provider.
Education and behavioral support are essential for medication adherence. But even the best treatment plan won’t work unless the individual is willing to follow their medication regimen. Forcing medication on someone who’s not ready or willing is often a recipe for failure.
The good news, awareness around mental illness is growing. The stigma has also been reduced. Despite this, many people are still judged for needing medication and labeled as “weak” or “crazy.” These harmful stereotypes discourage the very people who can benefit the most from pharmaceutical treatment.
Every prescription has a purpose. Psychiatric medications should be viewed with the same legitimacy as those prescribed for physical illnesses like heart disease or diabetes. In both cases, the goal is to relieve suffering, improve daily activities, and save lives.
Of course, all medications carry some risk. Side effects can range from mild to severe. But for many, the upsides far outweigh the downsides. Medication can be the difference between barely surviving and finally thriving.
Millions still associate psych medications with outdated, stigmatizing ideas. It’s time to change that. Medication isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a tool for healing. And for many of us, it can be life-changing.
Trust me, I what I am talking about.
Written by Candace Schoner, mental health advocate and producer of the podcast, Voices for Mental Health