Moral Culpability Related To Adverse Prescribed Medication Side-Effects

[centurionguard]

Sometimes with certain adverse effects in various classifications in prescribed medications can make you extra moody, emotional and irritatable, bringing unwanted emotions when relating with close loved ones in family and friends. I think its a good thing in hindsight when you can exam yourself humbly perhaps feeling remorse and guilty for having made an unwanted negative reactionary comment in reply to someone. I hate when that happens.
Normally; this wouldn’t be my behavior. Some meds I take I feel have a bearing on my mood which I have discussed with my family physcian.

I realize there’s a censor in these Forums in what people can talk about medical conditions etc. My questions concern moral culpability regardless of the humble necessity to seek sacramental confession of ones sins taking into consideration of the adverse effects of medications have on ones psychological well being?

Note: I’m not looking for an escape at avoiding guilt for my behavior despite the adverse effects of the medications; just trying to understand this whole thing more.
Sincere Appreciation for your suggestions.

Fraternally Yours In Christ Jesus
Chris

 

[Polycarp1]

I would think that because you know that this is wrong behavior that the Holy Spirit is the one working in your heart to bring it to mind. He will not allow us to be tested beyond our ability to resist temptation. Certainly the medication may make it harder to resist committing this behavior but the extra effort you make in bending your will to the Lord’s will all the more be rewarded accordingly.

 

[DexUK]

I have a friend who, for years, was on medication that affected his moods. At some times during those years he was known to act badly or say things that upset people. I was a recipient of some of those actions, but I did not judge him harshly for it because I knew it was essentially a symptom or side-effect of his medication and that it was distorting his emotions. It wasn’t really the authentic person who was acting.

God treats people the same. He knows and understands that a person who is under medication with psychological side-effects that that person isn’t fully in control. Depending on the circumstances of such side-effects that could lessen or even remove the sinfulness of their actions.

If your medication changes your cognitive processes, then your will might not be fully under your ‘normal’ control and therefore the requirements of sinfulness may not be met.

Discuss your situation with your friends and family. Tell them you have side-effects. Let them know that you’re sorry if they get treated badly but that you might not be properly aware of it at the time you’re suffering the side-effects. If they’re good people, they’ll forgive you without question, and as you know, God always forgives those who come to him.

First and foremost, be at peace.

 

[Nimzovik]

Yes… I have seen people do and say things they*** never*** would have due to medications. It is called the practice of medicine for a *reason. *

I would only add that people become more socially aware to the plight of people that need to take medications.

It is often a humbling, unfortunate and perplexing situation.

 

[sing4joy]

… My questions concern moral culpability regardless of the humble necessity to seek sacramental confession of ones sins taking into consideration of the adverse effects of medications have on ones psychological well being?

Note: I’m not looking for an escape at avoiding guilt for my behavior despite the adverse effects of the medications; just trying to understand this whole thing more.
Sincere Appreciation for your suggestions.

Fraternally Yours In Christ Jesus
Chris

It seems to me that as concerned as you are about the situation, you are okay. One thing we all need to remember is God’s overwhelming mercy and lovingkindness. You seem to be sincerely concerned with maintaining a close relationship with God. Trust Him to let you know when you need repentance. He wants a close relationship with you so very, very much; just take His hand and walk with Him.

That is what I strive to do as I have some similar issues. It’s not always easy, but it is glorious.

sing4joy

:harp: