“Viibryd (vilazodone) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and a 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist. And that means it impacts serotonergic…”
Whoa, whoa, whoa! Stop, hold the phone, and chill!
Viibryd – other antidepressants, benzodiazepines, atypical antipsychotics, beta-blockers, etc. – play a part in the relief of depression and anxiety.
But beyond the neuro/biochemistry of it all lies the non-scientific reality of what it means to be human. And as much as meds can provide some quick and convenient relief, we can’t forget the role of, well, me (as in you).
Let’s kick back and chat…
The Lesson of Jessica
Jessica presented a real challenge. In her late-teens, she was being dominated by psychotic symptoms – voices, delusions, and disorganized thought.
When she came to us, Jessica was in a fog. She knew we were trying to communicate with her, and she did all she could to participate. But the voices and her scattered thinking made it very difficult for her.
I can’t really put my finger on why, but Jessica and her circumstances tugged at the strings of my heart. I left work several days in a row feeling so badly for her.
Funny – one day she managed to share she had a boyfriend. Whether or not she really did, I was delighted – relieved – to know she had someone out there who could provide her with a measure of joy.
Nonetheless, Jessica’s very ill emotional and mental experience continued.
The Fog Lifted
One day – truly out of nowhere – Jessica approached several of us. Frankly, we couldn’t believe it. She was lucid and chatty, like any teenager.
And, go figure, she was focused upon her physical appearance; wanting to shower and put on some fresh clothes.
Of course, as much as I wanted to, our clinical relationship barred a big ‘ole bear hug. But I embraced her with my eyes and voice – and she knew it.
I asked her what she believed was responsible for her emergence. Well, she kind of “I don’t knowed,” but allowed as how getting back on a consistent meds regimen was a big part of it.
And though I believe she was spot-on, I also believe something else played a major role.
Jessica’s parents paid her a visit earlier in the day. I stuck my neck out and asked her if she got on well with them. She replied, “Oh yeah, I for sure love my mom and dad – they’re awesome.”
Sweet…
Let’s Close
You know, I don’t think anyone who truly understands the emotional and mental health disorders questions the potential value of meds – science. But there’s so much more to relief, don’t you think?
I know – Viibryd, Celexa, Xanax, Abilify, Inderal, etc., etc. They all have their place in healing.
But it’s the human piece – the day-in and day-out art of managing life – that brings us to our intended reality.
Seems to me we need to always keep that in mind…
(Yes, those are my feet and ankles)
To catch a glimpse of all chipur articles re the psychology of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder – just click here.
