Counselling vs Medication: Deciding What’s Right for You

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Feeling low, anxious or overwhelmed can happen at any age, and many Kiwis in their later years wonder where to turn. Counselling and medication are two common options. Neither is better for everyone, so understanding how each works can help you have a clearer conversation with your doctor.

What is counselling?

Counselling, sometimes called talking therapy, gives you a safe space to talk through worries, grief, loneliness or big life changes with a trained professional. Retirement, losing a partner, health concerns and living far from family are all common topics for older New Zealanders. Counselling can teach practical skills for managing difficult thoughts, and the benefits often last well beyond the sessions. It does take time and commitment, and some people find it tiring at first.

What about medication?

Medications such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety treatments work on brain chemistry to ease symptoms. They can help when feelings are more severe or have lasted a long time. Many people notice improvement within a few weeks, though this varies. Seniors may be more sensitive to side effects, and some medications interact with other prescriptions, so regular reviews with your GP or pharmacist are important. Never stop or change a prescribed medication without medical advice.

Can you have both?

Yes. Many people find a combination works well, with medication providing relief while counselling builds longer-term coping skills. Others prefer to begin with counselling alone and reassess later.

Questions worth asking yourself

Do you prefer to talk things through? Are you already taking other medications? How strong do your symptoms feel? Do you have transport or a support person to help you get to appointments? Phone and video counselling are also available, which can be a great option if getting out and about is difficult.