Medications: the 1 pill, 3 times a day dread.
I will forever struggle with this. I was recently diagnosed with a new ailment to add to my ever-extending list of pre-existing ailments.
1 tablet - to be taken 3 times a day. The ultimate test of executive function, that I am absolutely going to fail.
Chapter 01The daily fade
My doctor would be better off saving that medication for someone who'll actually remember to take it. With me, it will end up gathering dust in my kitchen medication cupboard, where medications go to die.
I will 100% remember to take the first tablet of the day, along with my ADHD medication and supplements. But the afternoon and evening pills? Pfft, no chance. By lunchtime, in my brain, the entire concept of medication has ceased to exist.
I genuinely only remember that I should have taken them when it comes to the next morning, and I've remembered to take my morning medications. Rinse & repeat. Forever doomed to medicate my ailments by 33%.
Chapter 02The dosset box trap
And for the love of God, if someone suggests a "dosset box" one more time…
"Ooooh, dosset boxes are really good for taking your medication!"
Like I haven't already got 3?! And before you ask, no, I have no idea where they are.
A dosset box is the medical equivalent of buying a shiny new notebook for work. Bought with the best intentions, used once, then forgotten. As we speak, both my medications and notepads are currently gathering dust in the graveyard cupboard, along with a plethora of different flavoured protein powders and recycled gift bags from my last ten birthdays - that I ultimately forget actually exist, and just end up buying new bags for other people's celebrations anyway.
Chapter 03Reminders, the optimism trap
"Why don't you just set reminders?"
Why don't you wind your neck in, Sandra.
Let me explain how reminders work for me.
- Very optimistically sets reminder to take medication.
- Alarm rings on my phone.
- I see it, think "I'll do it in a minute" - but by then, I've become distracted by something shiny or something more pressing. Never to be thought about again, until my evening alarm goes off for the 3rd pill. "Shit, I forgot my 2nd pill" - then feel like a failure. Again, rinse & repeat.
Chapter 04The solo act
As a single woman, living alone, it is incredibly hard to rely on myself to remember most things. Who wants to be my husband/medication reminder? Don't all rush at once, I'll be taking applications soon.
Maybe one day I'll remember?