6A. What Medication Accomplishes

Medications used to treat mental conditions are called psychotropic or psychotherapeutic medications. Although they do not cure the mental illness, many people with mental disorders find that these medications can improve distressing symptoms, and help them live fulfilling lives.

These medications do not work the same for everyone. For example, a person with depression may feel much better after a few months of medication and be able to stop taking it. Another person may need to take an antidepressant for years. Others diagnosed with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder may need medication for a long time.