"I do not believe in medicine." Did you hear that people say that?
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, believe:
1 a: have a strong religious belief b: accept truth, authenticity or reality (ideals we believe in) (believes in ghosts)
2: Have a firm conviction about kindness, efficiency, or the ability of something (believe in the exercise)
I think we can agree with the fact that medicine:
* is not a religion.
* real.
* is effective and necessary when used properly.
So what does this mean when someone says: “I do not believe in medicine”?
I dont know.
Here is what I know:
* It is necessary to establish an accurate diagnosis by a specialist specializing in AD / HD, before embarking on any treatment plan.
* Treatment of neurobiological conditions, such as AD / HD, may include medication to alleviate the problems of the condition in order to function well.
* Medicines, when justified, have shown that this is one of the most effective treatments for AD / HD.
* It may be ineffective, however, if this is the only intervention. Medications are usually most effective when they are part of a treatment plan, which may include therapy, coaching and behavioral interventions, as well as exercise and proper nutrition.
* Children, adolescents, and adults who take medications as part of a complete treatment plan can do better socially, academically, and emotionally.
I also know that the decision to take any medications must be made with great care.
So the next time you hear someone say, “I don't believe in medicine,” ask them what they mean. Perhaps by asking them this question you can help them become clearer in their thinking.
“What you perceive, your observations, feelings, interpretations, is your truth. Your truth is important, but it is not “Truth.” ~ Linda Ellinor
