You can also get your meds prescribed by your GP, but I found it best to go to a pdoc. My GP really tried to help, but didn't have a good handle on dosages, etc.

Based on your symptoms, your pdoc will start you out on a medication he/she thinks will work best with your symptoms. Be sure to not only include your mental health symptoms, but any physical aches, pains or changes you are experiencing. Most times the physical feelings are related and can be managed with the right medication that also treat your mental health symptoms. You should see your pdoc at least every 2 weeks in the beginning to determine the effectiveness. Know that it can take 4 - 6 weeks for the medication to build up in your system sufficiently to become effective.

If it works, great. If not, either the dosage will be increased, the pdoc will switch your med or will add an adjunct med. It can be a lot of trial and error because what works is determined by how your body responds. What works for one doesn't always work for another.

After finding the right med (or combination of meds) you should see your pdoc every 3 months for a med check...sooner if you start to struggle. Meds can "poop out" on us, so you may need to switch meds after being on them for a while...or they remain effective.

I'm assuming your parents are aware you are seeing a therapist. If they have questions they should talk to your T, but I would suggest you be present for that discussion. You want to know what is being discussed and be able to correct or add to the conversation. Because mental illness is not something one can see, your parents and possibly your therapist may not know everything.

Talk to your T about what is going on. Your T should be your advocate and is there to help you manage your illness.

Good luck.